Sunday's game in Ottawa, which pits holders Argentina against Mexico for a place in the last four, is without doubt one of the most eagerly anticipated encounters of Canada 2007. The South Americans aim to take another step towards retaining the crown they won at Netherlands 2005 while El Tricolor, with a 100-percent record so far, are determined to stay in the hunt for their first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup title.

The game
Argentina vs. Mexico, 15 July, 19:45 (Ottawa)

The stakes
Both teams are still unbeaten going into Sunday's showdown, and both won their respective groups. However, El Tri have the slightly better record, having won each of their four games. The duel between Argentina and Atletico de Madrid forward Sergio Aguero and his FC Barcelona and Mexico counterpart Giovanni Dos Santos is a mouth-watering prospect. Performances so far have the inspirational pair keeping one eye on the tournament's individual awards and the other on a semi-final berth.

The players
The Albiceleste are without Damian Escudero, sidelined through a muscular injury, and Mauro Zarate's involvement is in doubt after swelling appeared in his right knee. Mexico are at full strength.

The numbers game
The two countries have clashed just once at FIFA U-20 World Cup level. In the Round of 16 at Nigeria 1999, Argentina suffered a humbling 4-1 defeat at the hands of El Tricolor.

The words
"We're only at the quarter-final stage, but perhaps it does feel like the final has come early. We've been drawn against Argentina, although we'll play with the same intensity as in our previous matches and the same determination to go through to the next round, though we're aware that we're up against opponents of the very highest calibre. Besides which, both teams know each other only too well." Jesus Ramirez, Mexico coach.

"Mexico are a good team packed with dangerous players. [Giovanni] Dos Santos is playing well, really well I should say. Let's hope he isn't able to reproduce his best form against us." Sergio Aguero, Argentina striker.

"Argentina are a great side with big-name players. Whichever team plays better on the day and is hungrier for the victory will win the game." Carlos Vela, Mexico striker.