Mexico chase a return to glory on home soil

Mexico host the World Cup for a third time dreaming of recapturing the magic of 1970 and 1986, when they reached consecutive quarter‑finals. Since then, El Tri have repeatedly stalled in the Round of 16 and even crashed out in the group stage at Qatar 2022. Javier Aguirre’s fiery squad open against South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca, revisiting the 2010 curtain‑raiser.

Aguirre knows the weight of history, having played in 1986 and coached the 2010 exit, yet believes pressure can fuel momentum. Mexico aim to build on March’s defensive solidity against Portugal while relying on veteran striker Raúl Jiménez for goals. South Korea pose a major threat with Son Heung‑min and Lee Kang‑in, while the Czech Republic bring a dangerous duo in Pavel Sulc and Patrik Schick after surviving two play‑off shootouts. South Africa, under Hugo Broos, arrive with diminished momentum. Mexico’s path hinges on topping the group.