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World Cup 2010: Mexico's Rafael Marquez Expects Tough Opening Clash Against South Africa
 Goal.com
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January 08, 2010
| | Marquez wants a good result against the hosts to set the trend for their World Cup campaign. (Mexsport) | |
Mexico's most famous player, defender Rafael Marquez, is optimistic about his team's chances in the World Cup, saying much may depend on the opening game against host South Africa.
The Barcelona player said on Thursday that there may be extra pressure because it will be the first game.
"The good part is that everyone is going to see our opening game against South Africa," Marquez said in an interview with Mexico radio station Estadio W.
"The bad part is we are playing the host nation in front of their fans. They will do all they can to get a good result. This will make it more difficult, but we can overcome this.
"We'll have to work hard mentally to beat the pressure, do our job and try not to think about the referee."
Mexico will play in Group A, which also contains Uruguay and France. El Tri qualified second behind the United States in the North and Central America and Caribbean region.
One of the world's earliest football-playing countries, Mexico has twice reached the World Cup quarter-finals but never gone farther. In recent years their northern neighbours, USA, have become the most consistent team in the region.
"In football terms we have shown what we can do," Marquez said. "We have to keep this up and get better. The mental side of the game has often cost us."
Mexico will begin training around two months before the World Cup begins in June. Europe-based players like Marquez will join the team after their seasons end.
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