FIFA World Cup 2018 Group F: Mexico

By Satuk Bugra Kutlugun

ANKARA (AA) - Mexico will make its 16th World Cup appearance when it takes on Germany, Sweden and South Korea in Group F.

Mexico finished the North, Central America and Caribbean qualifying group as leaders to book their place Russia, collecting 21 points in 10 matches.

The team will rely on 29-year-old Javier Hernandez who plays for West Ham United in the English Premier League. The 22-year-old wingman, Hirving Lozano, will make his debut in the World Cup.

Mexico participated in 15 World Cups before, their best record is reaching quarter finals two times, in 1970 and in 1986, when they host the tournament.

The team was ousted six consecutive times in Round 16 since 1986.

Mexico's confirmed 23-men squad:

Goalkeepers: Guillermo Ochoa (Standard), Alfredo Talavera (Toluca), Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul)

Defenders: Carlos Salcedo (Eintracht Frankfurt), Diego Reyes (Porto), Hector Moreno (Real Sociedad), Hugo Ayala (Tigres), Edson Alvarez (Club America), Jesus Gallardo (Pumas), Miguel Layun (Sevilla)

Midfielders: Rafa Marquez (Atlas), Hector Herrera (Porto), Jonathan dos Santos (LA Galaxy), Andres Guardado (Real Betis), Marco Fabian (Eintracht Frankfurt), Giovani Dos Santos (LA Galaxy)

Forwards: Javier Hernandez (West Ham United), Raul Jimenez (Benfica), Oribe Peralta (Club America), Jesus Corona (Porto), Carlos Vela (LAFC), Javier Aquino (Tigres), Hirving Lozano (PSV)

Manager: Juan Carlos Osorio