Recife (Brazil): Veteran Mexico captain Rafael Marquez helped set up a last-16 clash against the Netherlands by finishing second in Group A yesterday's 3-1 win over 10-man Croatia, who exited the World Cup.

Mexico needed just to avoid defeat in Recife to take their place in the knockout phase, but three goals in 10 second-half minutes killed off Croatia's hopes.

The Mexicans needed more than an hour to break the deadlock at the Arena Pernambuco before the floodgates finally burst.

Mexico's defender Rafael Marquez celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Group A football match between Croatia and Mexico at the Pernambuco Arena in Recife during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Pic/AFP

Marquez scored with a header on 72 minutes before Andres Guarado grabbed Mexico's second and substitute Javier Hernandez netted a third in quick succession to book their Dutch showdown on Sunday in Fortaleza.

Ivan Perisic grabbed a late consolation for the Croats before replacement forward Ante Rebic was sent off just before the final whistle.

Croatia bow out by finishing third in the group after their opening 3-1 defeat to Brazil and 4-0 trouncing of Cameroon, while Mexico finish second in the table to Brazil on goal difference.

Coach Niko Kovac had recalled defender Sime Vrsaljko for Croatia, with left-back Danijel Pranjic pushing up into midfield, but it was a move that ultimately didn't pay off.

The Mexicans were unchanged from the side that held hosts Brazil to a goalless draw last Tuesday thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

Mexico coach Miguel Herrera opted to again leave Hernandez out of his starting line-up before the Manchester United star netted after coming on for the final 25 minutes.

The Mexicans had the best of the opening exchanges when Hector Herrera's long-range shot beat Croatia goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa, but thundered off the crossbar on 16 minutes Croatia fired in numerous crosses, but Mexico goalkeeper Ochoa was again solid between the posts.