Guillermo Ochoa Returns to Mexico Squad for World Cup Warm-Ups

On March 19, 2023, Mexico's national football team coach Javier Aguirre announced a 26-man roster for upcoming warm-up matches against Portugal and Belgium. The matches are scheduled for March 28 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City and March 31 at Soldier Field in Chicago. The roster features the return of veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa and the first call-up for midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo.

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Guillermo Ochoa, 40, has been a prominent figure in Mexican football, having participated in five consecutive World Cups from 2006 to 2022. His return to the national squad comes after a hiatus since the 2025 Gold Cup, where he was named but did not play. Ochoa currently plays for Limassol in Cyprus and is aiming to make his sixth World Cup appearance. His inclusion is particularly significant following the injury of Luis Ángel Malagón, who ruptured his Achilles tendon and will miss the World Cup.

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Álvaro Fidalgo, a 28-year-old midfielder who recently joined Real Betis from Club América, has received his first call-up to the national team. Fidalgo, who obtained Mexican citizenship earlier this year, played a crucial role in helping Club América secure three consecutive championships. His addition to the squad aims to bolster the midfield, especially in light of injuries to Marcel Ruiz, who tore his ACL, and Edson Álvarez, who underwent ankle surgery.

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The roster includes a mix of experienced players and newcomers. In addition to Ochoa and Fidalgo, the squad features young talent such as 20-year-old Obed Vargas, who recently signed with Atlético Madrid. The complete squad consists of goalkeepers Guillermo Ochoa, Raul Rangel, and Carlos Acevedo; defenders Richard Ledezma, Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, and others; midfielders including Denzell Garcia, Erik Lira, and forwards like Raul Jimenez and Alexis Vega.

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Coach Javier Aguirre expressed confidence in the squad's potential, highlighting the importance of these matches as preparation for the World Cup. The reopening of the Azteca Stadium for the match against Portugal marks a significant moment for Mexican football, as it has undergone renovations in anticipation of the World Cup.

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While the roster has been generally well-received, some critics question the decision to include Ochoa, citing concerns about his age and recent performance levels. Others argue that the focus should be on integrating younger players into the squad as Mexico prepares for the World Cup.

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Mexico's national team will face Portugal and Belgium in the upcoming warm-up matches, which serve as critical preparation for their World Cup campaign. The team is set to kick off their World Cup journey in Group A against South Africa on June 11, 2023.

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