It is not just that they beat France that should give Javier Aguirre’s side confidence; it was the manner Raymond Domenech’s team was brushed aside. Having endured the enormous pressure that went with playing the opening fixture against South Africa in Soccer City, this is a young, aggressive Mexico side that does not appear afraid of very much. Their weakness is obvious – a poor goalkeeper and a somewhat shaky defence. But few teams at this World Cup are more vibrant.

Uruguay do well in years that end with a -0. They won the World Cup in 1930 and 1950, reached the semi-finals in 1970 and qualified from their group for the last time in 1990. They should at least reach the knockout stages in 2010 and in Fernando Muslera they possess a better goalkeeper than Mexico and in Diego Forlan a striker who is the peak of his powers. Oscar Tabarez played him in a more withdrawn role in the 3-0 defeat of South Africa and may be tempted to do the same here.

Every game in the Royal Bafokeng Stadium has thus far ended in a draw and, if the pattern is maintained, both teams would be happy enough since they would both qualify for the knockout stages. However, a draw would suit Uruguay more since they would finish first and avoid an early meeting with their ancient foe, Argentina. The danger is this might be the height of their ambitions. Verdict: Draw.