The Mexican national team heads into the final matchday of the 2026 World Cup group stage in an unusual position: with two wins in its first two matches and the chance to cap off a nearly perfect group stage against the Czech Republic, however, beyond the results, Javier Aguirre faces a decision that has sparked discussion among fans and experts: how to manage playing time for a roster in which he insists that every player is equally important.
Since the start of World Cup training camp, the Mexican coach has repeated a message that has remained unchanged: “I’m comfortable with all 26 players. Whoever plays, plays. There are no starters or substitutes.” And the facts back up his words. Following victories over South Africa (2-0) and South Korea (1-0), Aguirre has already used 22 players from the squad, a clear sign of his confidence in the depth of the team.
Players who are still waiting for their chance
So far, the only members of the roster who have not seen any playing time are Mateo Chávez, Guillermo Martínez, and goalkeepers Guillermo Ochoa and Carlos Acevedo.
Ochoa’s situation is the one that has generated the most interest among Mexican fans.
At 41, the legendary goalkeeper remains one of the most beloved figures in national soccer, and many fans are hoping to see him get some playing time in this World Cup.
Although Raúl Rangel has established himself as the starting goalkeeper thanks to his strong performances—particularly his confidence in the air and with his feet—the possibility that Ochoa will play against the Czech Republic remains open.
Alexis Vega acknowledged that the team would support any decision made by the coach.
“We’re familiar with the legend of Memo Ochoa. If ‘El Vasco’ makes that decision, the whole team would be thrilled,” he said.
Roberto Alvarado expressed a similar view, noting that all the players are ready to step up when their chance comes (Filed under: The Mexican National Team and Javier Aguirre’s Dilemma).
A record that Mexico has never achieved
Javier Aguirre must also consider another important factor: the history of the Mexican national team.
El Tri has never won all three of its matches in a World Cup group stage.
For that reason, making too many changes could pose an unnecessary risk in a match that could go down in Mexican soccer history.
The challenge is to strike a balance between rewarding those who haven’t played yet.
And maintain the competitive level that has allowed the team to earn six points.
I'm comfortable with 26
Javier Aguirre
A Different World Cup for the Coaches
The current rules have also changed the way workforces are managed.
In the wake of the pandemic, FIFA authorized five substitutions per game and expanded World Cup rosters from 23 to 26 players.
This has allowed the coaches to distribute playing time more evenly and keep a larger number of players involved.
Even so, experience shows that not everyone is able to participate.
At Qatar 2022, five Mexican players did not see any playing time.
Similar situations occurred at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and even at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
When Aguirre himself benched several players, including Guillermo Ochoa.
Now, sixteen years later, the veteran goalkeeper finds himself in a similar situation once again.
The difference is that this time, Mexico is coming into the tournament with confidence, positive results, and the chance to write a new chapter in its World Cup history (Filed under: The Mexican National Team and Javier Aguirre’s Dilemma).
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