FIFA World Cup 2026: Everything you need to know about England’s opponents Mexico

If there was such a thing as a mid-table team at the World Cup, it would probably be Mexico. They are almost always present, yet no team has played as many matches in the tournament – 64 in total – without lifting the trophy.

Their supporters may claim but expectations were more modest this summer. However, the co-hosts ended a 40-year wait for a knockout win with a win over Ecuador, so confidence will be boosted for their match against England.

Failure to reach an elusive fifth game – the curse of the ‘quinto partido’ – has plagued Mexico for generations. El Tri went out of the round of 16 in seven consecutive World Cups between 1994 and 2018, before ending that streak in the worst possible way in Qatar, where they exited at the group stage.

Since then, Mexico has hired and fired two coaches before bringing the vastly experienced Aguirre back in charge for a third spell in 2024.

No stone was left unturned in his preparations. El Tri played 22 matches over the past year before the tournament began, giving Aguirre ample opportunity to experiment with tactics and personnel. He used 54 players during that time, less than half of whom made the final squad.

Those who did are now well drilled, especially the 12 domestic players. Most were asked to report for training on May 6, meaning some squad members were in camp for five weeks before the World Cup began.