Former Real Madrid coach and GM Jorge Valdano says Mexican football is hurt by being part of CONCACAF.

The Argentina World Cup says the lack of competition stifles development.

He told Record: "The biggest problem is how easy it is to compete. Being in CONCACAF is Mexico's big problem. You can't learn how to handle severe difficulties on the training pitch. Difficulties have to be endured at first-hand - that's the only way you can learn to live with them.

"Generally, the fifth game [at a World Cup] is full of difficulties - due to the pressure among other things. And Mexico has never gone through that. They are not used to those circumstances and the level of the rivals they meet in the Round of 16 is usually much higher. Their rivals are used to playing life-or-death matches and that gives them a totally different level of competitiveness.

"Mexico has a great soccer culture, but the basic strengths of the team need to work better. Sooner or later, they are going to have to compete against sides from other zones, not just CONCACAF. The team need opportunities and Mexico have had problems playing friendlies in Europe. The 2024 Copa América could be a very good opportunity to work on the team, make it more competitive, and grow."