Aguirre is aiming big

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre has delved into the psyche of his players to try to turn the Latin Americans into genuine contenders for the World Cup.

"I have sat down and talked with each of my players individually to see what makes them work," Aguirre said after Mexico had held Italy 1-1 to cruise through to the last 16 as group G winners.

"Some say we have underachieved in the past. I want to change that and it is important to make the players believe in themselves and realise they don't have to fear any opponent.''