'We weren’t better than our opponent' - Mexico manager Javier Aguirre reflects on El Tri's 0-0 draw against Japan in Oakland

Mexico settled for a goalless draw against Japan in a friendly at Oakland Coliseum, leaving head coach Javier Aguirre with more questions than answers as the 2026 World Cup cycle continues.

The “Vasco” was blunt in his post-match remarks, admitting the Asian side deserved the result. 

“It was a preparation game, but we weren’t better than our opponent,” Aguirre said. “We didn’t deserve to win. They made it difficult, pressed with intensity, and the draw was fair. It wasn’t spectacular, but matches like this help us evaluate where we are.”

Japan dictated much of the first half, forcing goalkeeper Luis Malagón into key saves and even requiring Johan Vásquez to clear a shot off the line. Mexico’s night worsened in the 28th minute when captain Edson Álvarez exited with a hamstring injury, later replaced by Erik Lira.

Although Hirving Lozano’s introduction in the second half injected energy, Mexico still struggled to break down Japan’s organized back line. To make matters worse, César Montes was shown a red card after VAR review, leaving El Tri to finish the game with 10 men. Despite the numerical advantage, Japan couldn’t find a breakthrough either, and the score remained 0-0.

Aguirre acknowledged Japan’s superior pace and physicality. 

“They surprised us with their speed and intensity. Most of their players are in Europe, so their rhythm is different. We gave away the first half, not because of attitude, but because they outplayed us," he said. 

Still, he noted positives in the second half, pointing to missed chances from Lozano, Germán Berterame, and Lira.

Meanwhile, San Diego FC forward Hirving Lozano shared his thoughts on returning to the Mexican national team. 

“I really wanted to come back to the national team. Thank God I was given the opportunity, Javier gave me the opportunity, and I have to make the most of it. I need to work hard, perform well, and keep pushing forward,” he said.

It had been over a year since Lozano last featured for El Tri, with his previous appearance coming in 2024. 

“This is a very good squad, it has very important and very talented players. I think we’re facing a team that is always at the World Cup and that now has some great players,” he added.

Mexico will now turn their focus to South Korea on Tuesday, while Japan will face the United States that same day.