Paunovic, who is familiar with Mexican football after coaching Guadalajara and Tigres UANL, believes the national team is well-equipped to compete with the world's best sides. Speaking ahead of Serbia's friendly match against Mexico in Toluca on Thursday, the 48-year-old praised the country's football culture and the talent available to head coach Javier Aguirre.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"I am convinced Mexico can do well. I have believed that since my time working in Mexico. The country has a tremendous football culture, passionate supporters and players who are willing to work hard for success,\" Paunovic told reporters as quoted by Xinhua.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Mexico will kick off its World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 11 before facing South Korea and the Czech Republic in Group A. With the tournament being co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, the Mexican team will enjoy the advantage of playing in front of home crowds.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Paunovic highlighted the importance of that support and said it could play a major role in helping the team reach new heights.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"There is a clear identity in this team and a lot of talent,\" he said. \"Playing at home is a huge advantage, as long as the fans fully get behind the national team. Their support can make a real difference,\" he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Serbian coach also had words of praise for Aguirre, who returned for a third spell in charge of Mexico in July 2024. Paunovic said the experienced manager has helped build a solid foundation and create belief within the squad ahead of the tournament.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"As a football person and a fan of the game, I think Mexico has more than enough quality to achieve something important,\" he added. \"They have a great coach, talented players and the opportunity to play at home. Those are important factors in a World Cup,\" he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While Mexico is putting the finishing touches on its preparations for the tournament, Serbia is already focusing on building a squad for the 2030 World Cup qualifying campaign. Paunovic described Thursday's friendly as a valuable test and an opportunity to assess his team's progress against one of the tournament hosts.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"As a football person and a fan of the game, I think Mexico has more than enough quality to achieve something important,\" he added. \"They have a great coach, talented players and the opportunity to play at home. Those are important factors in a World Cup,\" he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Mexico has never won the FIFA World Cup. Their best results in the tournament are reaching the quarter-finals on home soil in 1970 and 1986. The hosts would look to improve their results and give themselves a chance to win the trophy for the first time.<\/p>\r\n\r\n