MEXICO : PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jared Borgetti, who scored 14 qualifying goals and 37 internationally, is the go-to man up front. Jose Fonseca, his strike partner, did not fare too badly, either, connecting for 10 goals. Cuauhtemoc Blanco was not in coach Ricardo Volpe's plans, even though he has been one of the most dangerous strikers in Mexican history (he played but five games and 373 minutes during qualifying). Captain Rafael Marquez, who plays just in front of his defense, is a world-class defender for Mexico and Barcelona, helping the latter capture the Spanish La Liga crown. Attack-minded midfielder Jaime Lozano, 26, came into his own during qualifying with 11 goals. Goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez played very well during qualifying and is said to be at the best form of his career.

ROSTER

Goalkeepers: Oswaldo Sanchez (Guadalajara/Chivas), Guillermo Ochoa (America), Jesus Corona (UAG/Tecos)
Defenders: Jose Antonio Castro (America), Rafael Marquez (Barcelona), Mario Mendez (Monterrey), Ricardo Osorio (Cruz Azul), Francisco Rodriguez (Guadalajara/Chivas), Carlos Salcido (Guadalajara/Chivas), Claudio Suarez (Chivas USA), Andres Guardado (Atlas), Gonzalo Pineda (Guadalajara/Chivas)
Midfielders: Luis Perez (Monterrey), Pavel Pardo (America), Antonio Naelson (Toluca), Rafael Garcia (Atlas), Gerardo Torrado (Cruz Azul), Ramon Morales (Guadalajara/Chivas)
Forwards: Jared Borgetti (Bolton Wanderers/ENG), Guillermo Franco (Villarreal), Francisco Fonseca (Cruz Azul), Omar Bravo (Guadalajara/Chivas), Jesus Arellano (Monterrey).