Mexico opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a confident 2-0 win over South Africa, and the result was less surprising than how easily it came. Goals from Raul Jimenez and Julian Quinones did the job, but the real story is how Javier Aguirre’s squad looked comfortable from the first whistle — a sign that this host nation might be more than just a feel-good story.
Aguirre, who plans to step down after the tournament, has built a team with real structure. Under his leadership, Mexico has won 53 of 88 matches, claimed the CONCACAF Gold Cup, and captured the Nations League title. With a manageable group — South Korea and Czechia are next — fans have every reason to expect a knockout-stage run. But which players will actually make that happen?
Raul Jimenez — The Veteran Who Still Leads the Line
At 35 years old and playing in his fourth World Cup, Jimenez remains Mexico’s most dangerous weapon. His 46 international goals put him second all-time behind Javier Hernandez, according to Football Reference. More important than the numbers is how he changes the game: Jimenez is the anchor of Mexico’s attack, holding up the ball to bring wingers and runners into play. His strength in that role has defined his career, and this tournament — likely his last — will test whether he can carry the load one more time.
Edson Alvarez — The Captain and the Backbone
If Jimenez is the face, Edson Alvarez is the engine room. The Fenerbahce midfielder earned his 100th cap in the opener and plays the kind of role that rarely gets headlines but wins matches. His ability to break up plays and recycle possession was on full display against South Africa. Alvarez has played in the Premier League with West Ham and developed at Ajax, but his value to Mexico goes beyond any club résumé. He is the defensive shield that lets everyone else go forward.
Santiago Gimenez — The Young Hope in Attack
Mexico’s biggest question going into the tournament was whether anyone besides Jimenez could score consistently. Santiago Gimenez is the answer — or at least the best bet. The AC Milan forward has struggled since a €32 million move from Feyenoord in early 2025, scoring just seven goals in 37 appearances and missing months with an ankle injury. But his record at Feyenoord — 65 goals in 105 games — shows what he can do. At 25, this World Cup could be his breakout moment.
Guillermo Ochoa — The Meme Legend Who Could Still Matter
No conversation about Mexico’s chances is complete without Guillermo Ochoa, even if he’s no longer the starter. The 40-year-old is playing in his sixth World Cup, and his resume includes iconic moments: the 2014 game against Brazil, the 0-0 draw with Germany in 2018, a penalty save from Robert Lewandowski in 2022. Now at AEL Limassol in Cyprus, Ochoa is behind Raul Rangel in the depth chart. But if a knockout match goes to penalties, experience like his is impossible to replace.
Mexico will face stiffer tests as the tournament progresses, but this core — Jimenez’s finishing, Alvarez’s grit, Gimenez’s potential, Ochoa’s composure — gives them a fighting chance. For a host nation expected to advance, the real question is how far that blend of old and new can go.
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