The atmosphere in Mexicoâs camp is at an all-time high ahead of their October friendlies against Colombia and Ecuador, two South American sides already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Chivas and El Tri goalkeeper RaĂșl Rangel said that thereâs a strong sense of unity and chemistry within Javier Aguirreâs squad as the team gears up.
Luis Ăngel MalagĂłn and RaĂșl Rangel have been the goalkeepers most often called up by Mexico manager Javier Aguirre since he took over last year. Both are vying for the starting spot at the 2026 World Cup â but Aguirre had a clear warning: donât get too comfortable. The list of contenders keeps growing, and legend Guillermo Ochoa wonât be guaranteed anything at that position.
The results didnât go Mexicoâs way under Javier Aguirre during this FIFA window. El Tri had a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Colombia at AT&T Stadium and then drew 1-1 with Ecuador in Guadalajara - two potential World Cup opponents. Despite that, San Diego FC winger Hirving Lozano offered a positive assessment and highlighted some encouraging signs.
Mexicoâs poor results during the recent FIFA window sparked criticism of several players, including Toluca forward Alexis Vega, who has been questioned for his lack of impact. His club coach, Antonio Mohamed, defended him and expressed confidence that Vega will prove his worth when the 2026 World Cup arrives. The former Chivas player was booed by fans.
âComplicatedâ is the best word to describe this FIFA window for Javier Aguirre and the Mexican national team. El Tri wrapped the October break with a 4-0 loss to Colombia and a 1-1 draw with Ecuador. As Mexico looks ahead to Novemberâs friendlies against Uruguay and Paraguay, Aguirre is expected to present a clearer idea of his World Cup squad.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre made it clear that only players with mental toughness will make his roster for the World Cup, saying his project with El Tri isnât for those who âcanât handle the heat.â Aguirre also addressed the goalkeeping situation, casting doubt on Luis Ăngel MalagĂłnâs status as the starter and saying the position is still up for grabs.
Mauricio Pochettino insisted that the USMNT would present the best version of themselves in the October friendlies after months of experimentation. If Friday night is any indication, the manager was true to his word, as the U.S. turned in a confident performance against Ecuador, one of South America's best teams, salvaging a 1-1 draw.
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