'It hurt' - Cruz Azul's Jesús Orozco admits disappointment after Mexico snub

After Cruz Azul’s 4-1 win over the Sounders, which secured their place in the Champions Cup quarterfinals, Jesús Orozco admitted feeling hurt after being left out of Mexico’s squad for the Nations League Final Four on March 20.

"Yes, it hit me a little. It hurt… I won’t lie — you always want to represent your country. It’s a great honor,” Chiquete said after the game.

"I have to keep working. There’s still time before the World Cup, and I know without a doubt, I’ll be there."

Following the victory, Orozco also made it clear that Cruz Azul are ready to face any opponent in the next round, whether it’s América or Chivas. "We’re ready to beat anyone," he said.

Orozco was a key starter at Chivas, but at Cruz Azul, he has not fully earned a starting spot under Vicente Sánchez. In his first season with La Máquina, the 23-year-old defender has recorded 835 minutes in 12 matches. Against Seattle, he came on as a substitute in the 86th minute.

Orozco, 23, has four caps with Mexico. Two of them were in friendly matches, and the other two were in the Concacaf Nations League (280 minutes played).

La Máquina will host Atlético de San Luis next Saturday for Matchday 12 of the Clausura 2025. Sánchez's side is in fifth place with 19 points.