Mexico host USA and Honduras go to Panama in CONCACAF zone

Mexico will be looking to get their World Cup qualifying campaign up and running at the third time of asking when they take on the United States on Tuesday.

Back-to-back draws against Jamaica and Honduras have caused concern in the Mexican camp as they chase one of three automatic qualifying places for next summer's finals in Brazil.

Coach Jose Manuel de la Torre has urged his players not to be discouraged by the results, however.

"We must keep working hard on improving everything, technically, tactically, mentally... everything," he said.

The United States lost to table-toppers Honduras in their opening qualifier but beat Costa Rica last Friday in a snowy encounter in Denver, which prompted an official complaint from the visitors over the conditions.

However, coach Jurgen Klinsmann is now solely focused on Mexico and said: "We respect them a lot but don't fear them.

"They know they must gain the three points but we must too."

Honduras, who top the standings by a point over the Americans, are also in action against a Panama side who will overtake their opponents with a victory.

Panama's hopes will rest on the shoulders of striker Blas Perez and Honduras defender Victor Bernardez is expecting a tough duel with the player.

Bernardez told El Heraldo newspaper: "He is a player I know very well. He is very good so we must be focused on marking him well and not letting him score.

"Panama play good football. We watched them play Jamaica and they have great players. We must take care of the ball. We are physically fit so we are ready for this match."

Panama will be without the touchline influence of coach Julio Dely Valdes, who is serving a one-match ban after excessive complaining during last month's draw with Costa Rica.

However, he is confident his players can do the job without him.

"We are motivated and hopeful of taking at least a point," Dely Valdes said.

"Honduras and Panama know each other very well and both sides have their weapons.

"We must win to show what we are prepared for. We'll only know who will go to the World Cup at the end of the competition, and not before."