by: Mary Krystelle Mago
France needs to find their goal scoring touch against a Mexico side who believe they could be one of the surprises of the World Cup. While Mexico drew the opening game of the tournament 1-1 against hosts South Africa, France played out a tame goalless draw against Uruguay in Group A.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre will keep the team's three-pronged attack for the World Cup match against France this Thursday, despite problems with the formation with their first match. He prefers a settled team, which has veteran forward Guillermo Franco holding the central role, with Vela and Dos Santos out wide.
France veteran Eric Abidal said the outcome of that match won't affect the team's thinking. "Against Mexico we have to play for a win and nothing less," Abidal said.
Mexico defender Rafael Marquez said France is a dangerous team. "They are very strong in attack and defense, even though in attack they are not living up to the level that we're accustomed to seeing, but they have big players that can make the difference at any moment." Marquez added.
The Mexico vs. France World Cup game is coming to the big screen south of the border. Cablevision Reynosa is holding a special outdoor screening for the game in the city's Plaza Principal. Mexico and France are set to square off at 1:30 p.m. Thursday.