Argentine media on Thursday praised the "solid" performance of the national soccer team, following its easy qualification for the second phase of the 2006 World Cup tournament in Germany.

However, editorials warned that Saturday's game in Leipzig, Germany, will be tough.

Fans celebrate in Montreal's "Little Italy", after Italy's 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic in their World Cup 2006 soccer match, June 22, 2006. Italy clinched top spot in World Cup Group E on Thursday, eliminating the Czech Republic. [Reuters]

La Nacion headlined with "Walking Tough" saying that Wednesday's team looked strong and deserved to beat the Netherlands, during its last Group C match.

"The 0-0 draw does not tell you about the performance of the Argentine team, which ended top of Group C," the newspaper said.

Clarin said that Argentina put in it work and now is going for Mexico: "It was a proper game, the team kept the ball moving, with precision, speed and depth. There was also consistent defense and effective coverage in mid-field."

"Its important to note that the this efficiency was missing against the Africans and the Serbs, even though there were good opportunities. The team has increased its consistency. The script meets the criteria and now there is time for creativity and imagination."

The newspaper said that Wednesday's two lead strikers Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi were bold and fiery, while Hernan Crespo and Javier Saviola had more power. Argentina had shone in the qualification matches and the team is one to invest your dreams in, the newspaper said.