NUREMBERG - Mexico's first choice goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez will start their World Cup opener against Iran after a lightning trip home following the death of his father, the team's coach said on Saturday.
Ricardo Lavolpe said Sanchez looked in good form for Sunday's match despite his sudden bereavement and two long-haul flights in a matter of days.
"He looks relaxed and fit out there," Lavolpe said during final official training.
Sanchez, whose 55-year-old father Felipe died of a heart attack this week, said he was feeling motivated and ready.
"I'm very motivated," Sanchez said. "I got a lot of support from the people in Guadalajara. Tomorrow's a big game and I'm ready to play."
Sanchez, regarded as one of the world's best goalkeepers, is a key player for Mexico as they bid to go beyond the last eight for the first time.
The Iran clash is vital for both team's ambitions with Group D also including Euro 2004 finalists Portugal and Angola.
06/10/2006 20:33 GMT