Mexico striker Guillermo Franco insists he is not fazed by a potential World Cup last-16 clash with his native country Argentina.

Mexico must get a point from their final Group D match with Portugal to be sure of reaching the knockout phase - and that would set up a tie with either Holland or Argentina.

Not everyone in Mexico approved of coach Ricardo Lavolpe's policy to naturalise players from Argentina or Brazil but Franco, who plays his club football for Villarreal, insists his loyalty is only to Mexico.

"I've been asked about that a million times," said Franco.

"I'm thinking of Mexico, I have my heart in Mexico and if I have to face Argentina it'll be no different to facing Holland.

"That's not a problem. We're thinking only of Mexico and if we're on form we can beat anybody."

Even if Mexico were to lose to Portugal they would still qualify if Angola fail to beat Iran or if the African side were to fail to turn around a goal difference that is three goals in favour of the Latin Americans.

However, Franco insists the Mexicans will not be playing for a draw against the Portuguese.

"To beat Portugal will be important to boost the morale of the team and would really be a lift for us," said Franco.

Life has been made a little easier for Mexico with Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari insisting that he will rest all five of his players who would miss the last 16 match with Holland or Argentina if they were to pick up a caution.

The five are all key players for Portugal - Cristiano Ronaldo, Pauleta, Deco, Nuno Valente and Costinha.

Mexico coach Lavolpe must decide whether to risk striker Jared Borgetti against the Portuguese.

Borgetti, who pulled hamstring in the 3-1 win over Iran and then missed the 0-0 draw with Angola, has been given the medical all clear by team doctor Jose Luis Serrano.

However, it is questionable if Borgetti is sharp enough to play in the match.

Borgetti, whose 14 goals in qualifying for the tournament made him the top scorer worldwide, could start on the bench with Lavolpe having to call on him if there if necessary.

Lavolpe might also be tempted to make changes in midfield after ineffectual performances by Gerardo Torrado and Zinha.