Mexico kicks off World Cup 2026 under coach Javier Aguirre

Mexico World Cup 2026 Javier Aguirre Gil Mora Raúl Jiménez Estadio Azteca

Mexico will open the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a host nation, playing its first match against South Africa on June 11 at the Estadio Azteca. The team is led by Javier Aguirre, who will coach the side for a third World Cup, having previously guided Mexico in 2002 and 2010.

The 26‑player squad blends experienced internationals such as Raúl Jiménez, goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, defender Johan Vásquez and midfielders Erik Lira and Edson Álvarez with emerging talents. Young forwards Gil Mora (17), Obed Vargas and Brian Gutiérrez received special accolades in a national team video. Notably, former top scorer Javier “Chicharito” Hernández is absent from the roster.

Mexico entered the tournament after recent regional success, winning the Nations League and the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, yet faces pressure to equal or surpass its historic quarter‑final runs in 1970 and 1986. The team aims to capitalize on home‑field advantage and its mixed roster of European‑based and domestic players to advance beyond the group stage.