Mexico are preparing to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their third time as hosts. The team has 17 previous appearances, with their best performance being quarterfinal exits in 1970 and 1986. Mexicans refer to their failure to reach the quarterfinals as the 'Curse of El Quinto Partido' (The Fifth Game).
El Tri lost in the round of 16 in seven consecutive World Cups from 1994 to 2018. Coach Javier 'Vasco' Aguirre is optimistic about breaking the barrier, partly due to home advantage, which he calls 'priceless', citing England's home win in 1966.
Mexico's only quarterfinal appearances came when they hosted in 1970 and 1986. Aguirre played in midfield in 1986, when Mexico lost to Germany on penalties in a controversial match. The referee sent off a German player, but Mexico failed to capitalize with a man advantage.
This is Aguirre's third World Cup as head coach. In 2002, he allegedly underestimated the United States, losing 2-0. In 2010, Mexico fell to Argentina 3-1. Between national team stints, Aguirre had a successful club career in Spain. He returned in 2024, winning the Gold Cup and Nations League.
Mexico rely on a quick passing game through midfielders Alvaro Fidalgo and Alexis Vega, with 17-year-old Gilberto Mora as backup. Edson Alvarez and Luis Romo play holding roles. Wingers Roberto Alvarado and Cesar Huerta provide speed.
Johan Vasquez and Cesar Montes are the only natural center-backs. Aguirre has experimented by dropping Alvarez or Romo into central defense to improve build-up play. Jorge Sanchez is the likely right-back, with Jesus Gallardo on the left.
Fulham striker Raul Jimenez, 35, leads the attack. After a fractured skull in 2020, he hasn't regained his previous form but offers physical presence. Santi Gimenez and Armando Gonzalez provide alternatives.
Goalkeeper Raul Rangel is the starter. Guillermo Ochoa, 40, will participate in his sixth World Cup, a record. Naturalized players include Fidalgo, Colombian-born Julian Quinones, and US-born Brian Gutierrez and Obed Vargas.
Mexico are favorites in Group A, but Czech Republic and South Korea could challenge. The tournament opens with Mexico vs South Africa. At Estadio Azteca, Mexico have 5 wins and 2 draws in 7 World Cup matches. Altitude and home support are key advantages.
Source: www.aljazeera.com