MEXICO CITY -- Mexico head coach Juan Carlos Osorio isn't being lulled into a false sense of security due to World Cup opponent Germany's recent poor run of results.
Germany lost 2-1 to Austria on Saturday to make it five games without a victory, while Mexico defeated Scotland 1-0 in Estadio Azteca -- also on Saturday -- with the team booed off the pitch and cries of "Osorio out" ringing out towards the end of the game.
"Over there [in Germany] they appreciate processes and they aren't uncomfortable with giving opportunities to youngsters and [using] other systems," said Osorio in the postgame news conference.
"They will make their conclusions and they'll have a very tough team.
"We are aware [of Germany], we watch them very closely, we will analyze the game [against Austria], but they will continue to be the favorite for the World Cup."
Despite the boos in Mexico's farewell game ahead of Russia 2018 and the injury concerns over Andres Guardado, Diego Reyes and Hector Moreno, Osorio remains confident that El Tri can have a good World Cup.
"The Mexican national team is ready to have a great World Cup," said Osorio. "There is a lot of optimism inside the group, good camaraderie and solidarity, which will help us to compete at a high intensity.
"And with the talent that there is in the squad, we have a chance against any opponent."
Osorio explained that leaving out Javier Hernandez was a decision intended to keep the player fresh and give others opportunity.
He also talked about cutting Jesus Molina, Jurgen Damm and Oswaldo Alanis from the squad. The Colombian said there were four factors in making the decisions.
"[Firstly the] direct competition with one or another player in the same position ... competition in a second position, injuries and versatility," Osorio said. "Jesus Molina competes with Hector Herrera, Edson Alvarez and Rafael Marquez [and] we have those slots well covered."
Giovani dos Santos netted Mexico's only goal on Saturday, following a week of uncertainty about whether he would even be in the squad and Osorio praised his performance.
"[It was] a very good goal," said Osorio. "I'm happy for him and there were other plays in which he showed his talent. Athletically he is fine and he can compete in the positions he looks comfortable."
The Mexico squad travels on Sunday evening from Mexico City to Copenhagen to prepare for the June 9 friendly against Denmark.