Mexico entered the 2026 World Cup as co‑hosts, carrying the memory of two quarter‑final runs. The squad lacks the depth of a vintage side; few stars play in Europe’s top five leagues and Raul Jimenez is in the twilight of his career. Fans have booed the team in goalless draws, but a win over South Africa could lift spirits.

Co‑hosts benefit from a favorable group and home advantage, playing all three group matches at altitude where thinner air saps opponents’ energy. Mexico presses aggressively, regaining possession quickly and showing defensive solidity in March’s draws with Portugal and Belgium. Johan Vasquez and Cesar Montes lock down the centre‑back line, yet the side struggles with attacking fluency and a recent Luis Angel Malagon torn Achilles left the squad without its first‑choice keeper.

Aguirre has tested 54 players in 22 matches over the past year, keeping only a handful in the final squad. The 12 domestic‑based players were told to report on 6 May, giving them five weeks of camp before the tournament starts. Breaking a 40‑year knockout‑win drought would define success for a team that has historically been a mid‑table presence.