Despite a 2-0 victory over Ghana, Mexico’s performance raised concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Result stories are useful when they show more than a scoreline. They can reveal where a team looks ready and where work is still needed before World Cup 2026.
What the match showed
Mexico’s national team opened its final preparation phase for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-0 win over Ghana at Puebla’s Estadio Cuauhtémoc. However, beyond the positive result, the match exposed several weaknesses that still worry head coach Javier Aguirre.
El Tri started aggressively and found an early breakthrough through Brian Gutiérrez. Just one minute into the game, the forward capitalized on a poor clearance by goalkeeper Benjamin Asare and calmly finished to ignite the crowd in Puebla.
After the fast start, though, Mexico struggled to maintain intensity and rhythm. Aguirre was visibly frustrated on the sidelines throughout the match, constantly reacting to mistakes and the lack of fluidity in his team’s overall performance. Not even dangerous moments from Gilberto Mora and Alexis Vega were enough to satisfy the experienced coach.
Lessons for the World Cup build-up
One of the brightest positives was Gilberto Mora, who displayed confidence and creativity after overcoming recent injury issues. The young midfielder continues to emerge as one of Mexico’s most exciting prospects for the future.
In the second half, Aguirre made major changes to test different players and avoid unnecessary physical risks. The substitutions paid off immediately, especially with Guillermo “Memote” Martínez, who scored a stunning goal in the 54th minute with a powerful shot into the top corner.
Despite the comfortable scoreline, the final stages of the game were played at a slow pace and were accompanied by occasional boos from the crowd. Aguirre’s reactions made it clear that Mexico still has significant improvements to make before opening the World Cup against South Africa on June 11.
Friendly and qualifying results can shift confidence quickly, especially for teams still trying to settle roles before a major tournament.
Next steps for supporters
Before then, El Tri will face Australia in Pasadena and Serbia in Toluca as part of their final preparation matches.
The World Cup 2026 schedule, World Cup groups guide and TV channels guide help fans follow the next stage of the tournament build-up.