Mexico stack the band of five; South Africa pick five at the back

Aguirre has gone bold with a 4-1-4-1: Erik Lira anchoring, a four of Alvarado, Gutiérrez, Fidalgo and Quiñones buzzing behind Raúl Jiménez. That band of attackers is where this game gets decided.

Ntseki counters with a 5-3-2 — Ronwen Williams behind a back line of five, with Lyle Foster and Iqraam Rayners left to chase on the break. The numbers tell the rest: Mexico are unbeaten in five, three wins and two draws, while South Africa have drawn three and lost two.

The battle to watch sits in the half-spaces, Fidalgo trying to pull Teboho Mokoena out of his screen. Mexico's recent games have been the more open; South Africa's lower-scoring, which suits a side defending in numbers.

Bookmakers make Mexico clear favourites. Crack that five-man rearguard early and it could get away from the outsiders — opinion, but the shape invites it.