'In the Gold Cup, you can't underestimate anyone' - Mexico's Javier Aguirre stresses El Tri must stay focused in Suriname clash

As Mexico prepares to face Suriname in their second group stage match of the CONCACAF Gold Cup, head coach Javier Aguirre and defender Israel Reyes addressed the media to share their perspectives on the tournament's challenges and the honor of representing the national team.

During the press conference, one of the main talking points was the competitive landscape of the tournament. Aguirre stressed that no opponent should be underestimated, highlighting the increasing parity among national teams in the region.

“There are no small teams in this tournament - I’ve said it before, and I stand by it. In the Gold Cup, you can't underestimate anyone,” Aguirre asserted. “Yes, we’re one of the favorites, but so are a couple of other squads. The truth is, every match has been tough, and that’s part of our growth. We must evolve on and off the pitch. The loss to Switzerland taught us valuable lessons. We're on the right path, and not just in results, but in our approach as well.”

Aguirre also took the opportunity to praise the current squad's mentality, contrasting it with past generations who, in his view, lacked the same level of enthusiasm for wearing the national colors.

“This is a united group. These players want to be here - you can see they enjoy representing Mexico. That wasn’t always the case in the past. There were players who came in reluctantly. Today, I see a strong mindset. We’ve regained that hunger to play for the national team. And let’s be clear: if someone isn’t ready to handle criticism, they’re not ready to play for Mexico,” the veteran coach stated.

Reflecting on the tournament draw, Aguirre acknowledged that while Mexico and Costa Rica were seen as early favorites, the road has been anything but easy.

“On paper, Costa Rica and Mexico were supposed to dominate this group,” he said. “But the matches have been tight. We've both had to fight for every point. Nothing is guaranteed in this competition.”

On the players’ side, Israel Reyes shared his perspective on the team's progress and the personal responsibility he feels as part of the national project leading toward the next World Cup.

“This is a long-term process where attention to detail is key,” the defender said. “We’re improving step by step, both tactically and in terms of team chemistry. I’m here to give my best and help take Mexico to the top.”

Reyes also emphasized the pride he feels when donning the national jersey, saying it surpasses any club-level achievement, even playing in prestigious tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup.

“There’s no greater honor for a footballer than playing for your country,” Reyes affirmed. “To represent your people, your flag - that’s what truly drives us. It’s something you dream of as a child, and now that we’re living it, we feel deeply connected and fully committed.”

The team led by Aguirre will look to secure their spot in the quarterfinals this Wednesday against Suriname at AT&T Stadium. They will then close out the group stage against Costa Rica at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.