Leo Messi ready to pounce on World Cup record as Mexico make decision
The veteran goalkeeper watched from the bench as Mexico defeated Ghana 2-0, with signs growing that Javier Aguirre has already chosen his No.1 for the 2026 World Cup opener
Mexico’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup are entering their decisive phase and one of the biggest questions surrounding the national team may already have an answer.
Javier Aguirre’s side continued their pre-tournament preparation with a 2-0 victory over Ghana last Friday at Estadio Cuauhtemoc, but much of the attention before kick-off centred on the goalkeeping situation rather than the result itself, as Raúl “Tala” Rangel started once again.
Guillermo Ochoa, who has represented the national team across five different World Cups, remained an unused sub with the tournament now only weeks away. Following first-choice goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón’s season-ending injury in March, Ochoa had been expected to take over the role.
However, the veteran’s underwhelming campaign has not helped his cause. Playing in Cyprus with AEL Limassol, Ochoa conceded 34 goals in 22 league appearances before being granted permission to leave two thirds through the season.
The experienced goalkeeper kept a low profile after the friendly against Ghana. Cameras captured him leaving the stadium without speaking publicly, but later he addressed the situation through an emotional Instagram message that quickly attracted attention across Mexico.
“Sometimes you have to play. And sometimes you have to support, cheer on, and enjoy the journey from another place,” Ochoa wrote. “I continue to cherish every training camp, every conversation, and every moment shared in this jersey.”
Who is Raúl Rangel?
Everything currently points towards Raúl Rangel opening the World Cup as Mexico’s starting goalkeeper.
The Chivas player has steadily gained trust under Aguirre during recent camps and now appears to hold a significant advantage in the race for the position. His performances, composure and command of the penalty area have impressed the coaching staff at exactly the right moment.
Born on February 25, 2000, in Zapotlán el Grande, Jalisco, Rangel came through Guadalajara’s academy system before gradually establishing himself as one of the most promising goalkeepers in Mexican football.
His rise accelerated during the last two seasons with Chivas, where consistent performances in Liga MX helped him break into the national team setup under Javier Aguirre.
Ochoa has defined an entire era between the posts. His performances at World Cups – especially against Brazil in 2014 and Germany in 2018 – became iconic moments for El Tri supporters.
Leo Messi ready to capitalise
If selected for the World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa on June 11, Ochoa would become the first player ever to appear at six World Cups.
However, with that now in serious doubt, Leo Messi would be likely to take that honour, as Argentina play Algeria on June 16.
Cristiano Ronaldo can also reach that remarkable feat at this year’s tournament, as he too has participated in five World Cups. However, Portugal’s first game comes a day after the Albiceleste’s opener, against Congo DR.
