The atmosphere in Mexico’s 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 Raúl Rangel said that there’s a strong sense of unity and chemistry within Javier Aguirre’s squad as the team gears up.
Luis Ángel Malagón and Raúl 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 — but Aguirre had a clear warning: don’t get too comfortable. The list of contenders keeps growing, and legend Guillermo Ochoa won’t be guaranteed anything at that position.
One of the most outspoken critics of the national setup is Hugo Sánchez - arguably the greatest Mexican to ever play in Europe, a five-time Pichichi winner with Real Madrid. The legendary striker believes that Mexican federation leaders have halted the country’s football growth by withdrawing from Copa América and Copa Libertadores competitions.
The results didn’t go Mexico’s 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.
Mexico’s 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.
“Complicated” 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 November’s friendlies against Uruguay and Paraguay, Aguirre is expected to present a clearer idea of his World Cup squad.
Former Mexico international and ex-PSV and Real Betis player Andrés Guardado expressed concern about the current state of El Tri following their 4-0 loss to Colombia over the weekend. The retired midfielder believes Javier Aguirre’s side could face a tough World Cup campaign, insisting that “you can’t cover the sun with one finger.”
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 isn’t for those who “can’t handle the heat.” Aguirre also addressed the goalkeeping situation, casting doubt on Luis Ángel Malagón’s 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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