Mexico's national team has transformed from a struggling squad to a rising World Cup contender in just months. After a disastrous 2025 that included a six-game winless streak and harsh criticism questioning whether this was their worst team in 50 years, El Tri has rebounded dramatically in 2026. Under manager Javier Aguirre, Mexico has gone unbeaten in five games with a 3W-2D-0L record and a plus-6 goal differential.

This resurgence includes impressive draws against top-10 FIFA-ranked teams Portugal and Belgium, with Mexico dominating statistically in their 1-1 stalemate against the Belgians. The team outshot Belgium 10-5, won more duels at 54.4%, and created seven key passes to Belgium's two. Former Mexico coach Ricardo "Tuca" Ferretti called the Belgium performance "the best game I've seen" in Aguirre's tenure. Mexico's ability to compete with these World Cup contenders marks a significant turnaround from their previous struggles.

Injuries to key players like Edson Álvarez and Gilberto Mora have opened opportunities for backups and newcomers. Players such as Brian Gutiérrez, Erik Lira, and Álvaro Fidalgo have stepped up, with Julián Quiñones arguably being Mexico's best player against Belgium. With 71 days until their World Cup opener, Aguirre's team appears to have found the right formula. The question now is whether this momentum can carry them through the tournament they'll co-host with the U.S. and Canada.