Mexico optimistic about World Cup chances after group-stage draw

Mexico City, as one of the World Cup co-hosts, is filled with anticipation and optimism following the group stage draw that pitted them against South Africa, South Korea, and a yet-to-be-determined European team.

While some TV analysts have labeled Mexico’s group as “easy,” coach Javier Aguirre remains cautious, acknowledging the strengths of their upcoming opponents. “We faced Korea and they are not an easy team. They do their job. They are disciplined and organized, while South Africa is not easy either,” Aguirre stated after the draw. Despite the challenges, Aguirre believes that Mexico has a chance, especially with the advantage of playing at home with the support of their fans.

The opening match of the 2026 World Cup will see Mexico facing South Africa on June 11 in Mexico City. This will be followed by a match against South Korea in Guadalajara, with the final group stage game against the winner of a European playoff involving Denmark, North Macedonia, Czech Republic, and Ireland.

Mexico, although having been eliminated in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, remains hopeful for a successful campaign next year. Striker Raul Jimenez, who plays for Fulham in the Premier League, expressed confidence in the team’s abilities and emphasized the importance of taking it one game at a time to secure victories.

Mexico has a positive history against South Korea, having won both previous World Cup encounters in France 1998 and Russia 2018. The upcoming European opponent, consisting of players based in Europe, poses a different challenge due to their physical strength and tactical prowess.

Having hosted World Cups in 1970 and 1986, Mexico is no stranger to the international stage. Aguirre, who was part of the 1986 squad that reached the quarterfinals, believes that the hot weather in Mexico could work in their favor, creating a demanding environment for their opponents.

As a co-host of the 2026 World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, Mexico looks forward to the support of their home fans during the group stage matches and potentially in the knockout phase. Team captain Edson Álvarez emphasized the responsibility of opening the tournament and the team’s reliance on the extra support from the fans.

With high hopes and a strong sense of determination, Mexico is gearing up for a memorable World Cup campaign on home soil, aiming to make a mark on the global stage once again.