2026 World Cup: Mexico National Team Preview

This summer, Mexico will host the World Cup for the third time, becoming the first nation to achieve this milestone. For the national team, currently 15th in the FIFA rankings, the tournament represents a major challenge. Following a disappointing 2022 campaign where the team failed to advance from the group stage for the first time since 1978, the Mexicans are aiming for redemption on home soil in Mexico City and Zapopan.

Head coach Javier Aguirre, who returned to the helm in July 2024, is emphasizing organization and high intensity. Despite lacking global superstars, the Mexican side relies on a disciplined style, frequently utilizing a 4-3-3 formation. Even with limited individual talent, their collective approach allows them to maintain structure in high-stakes matches.

Squad selection remains a complex issue. Hirving Lozano was left out of the preliminary roster due to a lack of playing time and club-related conflicts, while striker Santiago Gimenez is enduring a difficult season in Milan. Consequently, the primary goal-scoring burden falls on the experienced Raul Jimenez, who is preparing for his fourth World Cup appearance.

The Mexican national team is organized and tries to compensate for the limited individual quality of the players with a collective, high-intensity style of play. Javier Aguirre

The situation in Group A looks manageable for the hosts, who kick off their campaign against South Africa. Beyond the battle for the knockout stages, the potential inclusion of 40-year-old Guillermo Ochoa remains a key talking point. Should the goalkeeper be named in the final squad, he would become only the third player in history to attend six World Cups.