BARCELONA (FIBA Basketball World Cup) - Mexico have already made their first appearance in four decades at FIBA's flagship event count by entering the Final Phase.

The 2013 FIBA Americas champions now line up against the mighty USA on Saturday to tip off the Round of 16 at the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Mexico coach Sergio Valdeolmillos, who is thrilled with the historic part, also has confidence that the team will hold itself well against the offensive machine the USA have been running so far in the competition.

"Yes they have been coming in high and mighty in all their games. But we watched their game against Turkey (when the USA trailed at half-time before eventually going on to win). That gives us the confidence that nothing is impossible," said Valdeolmillos.

"For me it doesn't matter what the opposition is. Or what reputation they are carrying. It will be a game of basketball. I want my players to give 40 minutes of solid game," said the Spanish play-caller.

"We are certainly up against the best team in the competition. I just want my team to come out and play at its best. Nothing more."

We have to play at a level higher than we have so far. That's what I expect from my team - Valdeolmillos

"We have raised the bar many times in the competition so far. We did that against Lithuania and Slovenia. I think we came out looking very good.

"It will be good to do something like that again."

Gustavo Ayon has led the Mexican charge with panache at the FIBA Basketball World Cup and the coach said the game against the USA is another opportunity for him to come good.

"He's the one with the experience of playing against the players. So I do expect him to do what he has been doing so far. Lead from the front," the coach said.

FIBA