Mexico will be looking to avenge their defeat at the 2006 World Cup finals when they take on two-time winners Argentina today for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.

Four years ago in Germany, Mexico and Argentina met at the same Round of 16 stage and a stunning extra-time goal by Maxi Rodriguez sealed a 1-0 win for Argentina, who later went out to hosts Germany in the quarter-finals.

Argentina and Mexico meet again at Soccer City tonight and Mexican midfielder Gerardo Torrado insists his team will "play to the death" to beat their illustrious opponents, coached by Diego Maradona.

In previous encounters, Argentina have 11 wins compared to Mexico's four with ten games drawn and Javier Aguirre's Mexico side will need to pull something special out of the bag to create an upset.

Mexico's chances hinge on whether they can close off the supply to Lionel Messi, according to his Barcelona team-mate Rafael Marquez.

"I know him (Messi) pretty well. We have to try to close down the space in which he operates as it is difficult to get the ball off him," said Marquez.

"He is the best player in the world. He is very gifted on the ball and he can change the rhythm of a game at will.

"We are hoping to turn in the perfect match," added the 31-year-old Marquez, who hopes that the Mexican fans will get behind the side - though he fears many feel Argentina will prove a bridge too far.

Argentina struggled with an unconvincing qualification campaign but since their arrival in South Africa have looked impressive and three wins in Group B have put them among the favourites.

But 31-year-old Torrado says his side will set out to claim the prized scalp of Maradona's side.

"We have an encounter ahead which we have to enjoy, but we will play to the death to win it," he said.

"In this game we have to continue advancing and to follow our dream so we will not lack attitude."

Argentina's attacking prowess is without question, especially as Gonzalo Higuain scored a hat-trick against South Korea, but they are more susceptible at the back.

While Argentina have swept Nigeria, South Korea and Greece aside to make the last 16, their talisman Messi is going through something of a goal-drought though the Barcelona ace is creating chances.

"I'm not worried about it - obviously I'd prefer them to go in, but it's not a big deal," Messi said.

"What's important is that we keep playing well and that the team wins. With a bit of luck, I'll score against Mexico."

Key to match
• With seven goals from three group stage games, Argentina have proven they can score with or without Messi's contribution, but Mexico must find a way to unpick the lock on the Argentine defence.

If striker Carlos Vela is fit, he will need to help provide some finishing to a Mexican side who have scored three goals in three games. They need to make sure Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero has a busy afternoon.

World Cup head-to-head
1930: (first round) Argentina 6 Mexico 3.
2006: (second round) Argentina 2 Mexico 1 aet.