Kolkata: Two-time champions Mexico arrived here Wednesday after a pre-conditioning camp in Spain for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, beginning October 6.
The 21-member El Tri squad were accompanied by a strong 16-member support staff including chief coach Mario Ortega. They will open their campaign against Asian champions Iraq, March 8.
Last edition’s semifinalists Mexico have been one of the most consistent sides of the U-17 World Cup since the turn of the century winning titles in Peru in 2005 and at home seven years later.
With no Nigeria this time, the seven-time CONCACAF champions will be one of the favourites as it remains to be seen how the Ortega’s boys cope with the unfamiliar Indian conditions.
The coach, however, exuded confidence while speaking of his boys. “The first aim will definitely be to top the group,” said Ortega through an interpreter. “More importantly, we will have to peak at the right time to achieve our goals which is winning the U-17 title for the third time. We have the quality to do that,” he added.
Ortega who has been with the side for the last couple of years was quick to point out that the boys will not have any problems adjusting to the Indian conditions. “That is one of the main reasons we trained at Spain. It was hot and humid there also,” the coach said.
