SOCHI, Russia – Just four teams remain in the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup, including CONCACAF champion Mexico (2W-1D-0L), which will face reigning World Cup champion Germany (2-1-0) in Thursday’s semifinals.

Speaking in a press conference Wednesday, Mexico head coach Juan Carlos Osorio praised German football and what his team can learn from playing one of the world’s footballing powers.

“We face a nation that can be the example to follow for those of us that believe in processes,” said the 56-year-old Colombian.  “We’re talking about the world champion, who we all admire, myself included.

“Taking into account all factors, we have a chance to play against Germany honorably.  It’s a responsibility to represent our country, CONCACAF and be a country that wants to learn from the best.”

Javier Hernandez, who plays in Germany for Bayer Leverkusen, believes his side is ready for the challenge.

“We are fighting a lot to qualify for the World Cup.  We are now in a Confederations Cup semifinal,” Mexico’s all-time leading scorer finished.  “We are going to do the very best we can.”

In their lone Confederations Cup meeting, Germany defeated Mexico, 4-3 after extra time, in the 2005 match for third place.