Mexico’s Historic Journey at the World Cup

Javier Aguirre has emphasized that the unity of the Mexican team is crucial for their World Cup success. This cohesive unit is making history.

Mateo Chávez and Julián Quiñones each scored in the early minutes of the second half, leading Mexico to a 3-0 victory over the Czech Republic on Wednesday. This win marked Mexico’s first time completing victories in all three of its World Cup group-stage matches.

The 22-year-old Chávez, participating in his inaugural World Cup, struck first in the 55th minute. Quiñones followed with his second tournament goal six minutes later. Alvaro Fidalgo sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal.

“It was something very beautiful, and I’ll take it with me to the grave,” Chávez commented on his goal, adding, “I dreamed of this.”

Mexico had previously achieved two wins and one draw during group stages, in 1986 and 2002, both with Javier Aguirre, first as a midfielder and then as a coach. Aguirre is now leading the team for the third time.

Following their triumph in Group A, Mexico prepares for a round-of-32 match at Estadio Azteca on Tuesday, with their opponent yet to be decided.

“The knockout stage is next. Statistics and data don’t matter now. Our focus is on what lies ahead,” Aguirre stated. “Neither the players nor I are dwelling on past achievements; our thoughts are on what’s to come.”

Mexico remains undefeated in nine World Cup matches at Estadio Azteca, which hosted 80,824 fans on Wednesday. El Tri has experienced only two losses at this venue, the latest against Honduras in World Cup qualifying on September 6, 2013.

The match on Wednesday highlighted both Mexico’s past and its potential future. At 17, Gilberto Mora became the youngest Mexican player to start in a World Cup. Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa, aged 40, entered in the 77th minute, joining Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in appearing in six World Cups.

“It’s like a dream come true after everything I’ve worked for,” Mora expressed. “We face tough opponents ahead. We aim to continue advancing. The Mexican national team can become champion.”

Despite the success, a homophobic chant from fans resurfaced, a chant that has previously led to sanctions against Mexico’s soccer federation. It was heard during the first half when Czech keeper Matej Kovar took a goal kick.

The Czech Republic ended their campaign without advancing, managing only one point in three matches.

Mexico is enjoying an unbeaten streak of 11 games dating back to a friendly loss against Panama last November. Aguirre has effectively utilized his squad, with 25 of 26 players participating in the tournament.

“Twenty-five of the 26 players have taken the field — not a minor detail — nor is it minor that everyone celebrates the goals,” Aguirre remarked.

Ochoa concluded his likely last World Cup match, playing the final 13 minutes in regulation plus stoppage time. His retirement from international play follows the World Cup as he turns 41 on July 13.

“Football had this farewell in store, and I am grateful for the perfect closure. I’ve given everything,” Ochoa shared. “I retire having dedicated myself fully to my teams and the national squad.”

Ochoa was a substitute in the 2006 and 2010 tournaments and was a starter in 2014, 2018, and 2022.

“I felt Memo had to play; however, the timing was uncertain until the decision was made. It was a night to honor a Mexican legend, Memo,” Aguirre reflected.

Raúl Rangel is the starting goalkeeper this year, taking over for the injured Luis Ángel Malagón. Malagón’s injury facilitated Ochoa’s return.

Ochoa became the oldest Mexican to play in the World Cup, surpassing Cuauhtémoc Blanco, who played at age 37 in South Africa in 2014.

Post-match, Ochoa kissed the goal post, kneeled, and received hugs from his teammates.

“Regarding Memo’s participation, whether it ends here or not remains unknown, but the tribute to his six World Cups was fitting,” Aguirre added. “He is a legend — he is Mexican.”

Fans gathered in the capital’s main square to watch the match broadcast against the Czech Republic.

Cristopher Rogel Blanquet / Getty Images.