[WORLD CUP 2010 COUNTDOWN] The Mexican soccer federation has announced plans for the Mexican national team's pre-World Cup preparations, which include 12 friendlies, of which six will take place in the United States.

Mexico-based players will begin training in Mexico City on April 12. Europe-based players will be worked into the team in mid-May. The Tri will gather for 12 days in the southern German city of Herzogenaurach before heading to South Africa.

Mexico's opponents will be set after the World Cup draw on Dec. 4 in South Africa. The tournament begins on June 11.

MEXICO DATES:
Feb. 24 -- at U.S. venue
March 3 -- at U.S. venue (FIFA date)
March 17 -- at Mexican venue
March 24 -- at U.S. venue
May 7 -- at U.S. venue
May 10 -- at U.S. venue
May 13 -- at U.S. venue
May 16 -- at Mexico City
May 23 -- at European venue
May 27 -- at European venue
May 30 -- at European venue
TBD -- at South African venue