MEXICO SKIPPER SET SIGHS ON WORLD CUP

Mexico skipper Rafa Marquez reached twenty years playing for the national team on Sunday when they played Iceland yet the veteran defender says the world cup is his target.

Another motivation factor for the player is that he wants to be the third player to ever feature in five World Cup editions.

The Mexican believes that his country would reach the mundial in Russia next year so he wants to contribute as much as possible.

“If I maintain this form I think I have a great chance. It would be extraordinary to be able to add five World Cups to my career [achievements]. I’d be the third player in history to be able to achieve it. I believe [Gianluigi] Buffon is also in the same line, but being part of history would be very important,” Marquez said, revealing his motivation.

He added that his priority remained “collective history” with the team. Marquez was at the core of the team that defeated Iceland 1-0 on Sunday. Coach Juan Carlos Osorio employed a 3-4-3, with Marquez playing a critical part. His form is stable and his recent display leave a positive impression about the chances of qualifying for the prestigious tournament next year.

Marquez was brilliant against the United States, scoring a goal. When they lined up against Iceland, fans chanted Marquez’s name in the fourth minute to celebrate him – the star wears the No. 4 jersey. Since he is not as pacy, the former Barcelona skipper makes up with his experience and game intelligence.

“I’m the same person now as when I came into the national team. Maybe it is the education that my family gave me that I believe is humility, being able to share my experiences with others, to be able to transmit,” the player said.

Many have called for the player to be given the opportunity in Russia, with Mexico’s greatest player Hugo Sanchez joining. After the game at Las Vegas, Marquez returns to help his club Atlas when they play Chivas in the Clasico Tapatio. While his career is winding down, Marquez’s legacy goes stronger.