Mexico face Italy in a Group A fixture of the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup at Estadio do Maracana in Rio De Janeiro on Sunday 16 June. The two teams will be playing their first game of the tournament. In the group's other opening match, host nation Brazil beat Japan 3-0 on Saturday.

Mario Balotelli
Reuters

Where to Watch Live

Kick-off is set for 8pm BST. Live coverage of the game will be available on BBC Three.

Overview

Mexico enter this game after a goalless draw in a World Cup qualifier tie against Costa Rica. Javier Hernandez came close to snatching a winner for his side early in the second half, only for the goalkeeper to block the shot from the Manchester United striker.

Jose Manuel de la Torre's side have an impressive defensive record, having not conceded a goal for three games. However, on the downside, Mexico have managed to win just one of those three fixtures, with the remaining two games ending in goalless draws. They will want to start their Confederations Cup campaign with a win over Italy on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Italy enter this game following a friendly 2-2 draw against Haiti. Emanuele Giaccherini gave Italy an early lead in the first minute of the game before Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio doubled the advantage in the second half.

But Italy failed to preserve their lead as Haiti bagged two goals in quick succession. In their last competitive match earlier this month, the Azzurri battled out a goalless draw against the Czech Republic in a World Cup qualifier.

Andrea Pirlo
Reuters

Team Form

Mexico

  • Last Five (all competitions, most recent first): D D W D D
  • Last Result: Mexico 0-0 Costa Rica

Italy

  • Last Five (all competitions, most recent first): D D W D D
  • Last Result: Italy 2-2 Haiti
Andres Guardado
Reuters

Team News

Mexico are likely to go with one striker up front, with United star Hernandez leading his side's attack. De la Torre is likely to field Giovani dos Santos just behind the striker and Mallorca star, with Javier Aquino and Andres Guardado in the wider positions.

Probable Line-Up: Corona; Flores, Rodriguez, Moreno, Salcido; Torrado, Zavala; Aquino, Dos Santos, Guardado; Hernandez

Italy will be without Stephan El Shaarawy, though former Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli is eligible to play, despite picking up a red card against the Czech Republic. Midfielder Andrea Pirlo's experience will be vital for his side.

Probable Line-Up: Buffon; Abate, Barzagli, Chiellini, De Sciglio; De Rossi, Pirlo, Marchisio; Montolivo, Giaccherini; Balotelli

Japan Mexico Manchester United FC