Some of you may remember a Mexican football commentator loudly - and eloquently - paying tribute to the United States for giving Mexico a lifeline in the World Cup qualifiers.

At the end of the day, though, Mexico have managed to qualify but problems remain.

But why is a country that has been winning trophies and medals aplenty at U17, U20 and U23 level, failing so miserably at senior level?

To answer that and more, Team 33 spoke to ESPN and Goal.com Mexico expert Tom Marshall, who is based in the city of Guadalajara.

Tom told Richard, Raf and Joe why Mexico struggled in qualifying, why would-be star striker Carlos Vela is doing a Stephen Ireland and whether this team has the ability to breach the last-16 barrier for the first time since 1986.

Listen to the full interview via the player:

You can also subscribe to Team 33's World Cup podcasts on iTunes.

Marshall also profiled young Mexico striker Alan Pulido with Raf Diallo which you can read by clicking here.