As every four years, fatality appeared on the eve of the World Cup to do its thing. Mexico was one of its victims through Luis Angel Malagon, goalkeeper of Club America and the Mexican national team. Through an injury, it manifested itself to leave him out of the World Cup.
As soon as the images of the match against Philadelphia Union were seen, showing how his Achilles tendon was broken, the national soccer echo began to pronounce the name of Guillermo Ochoa. Malagon’s misfortune was interpreted as a sign that Paco Memo should be the starting goalkeeper at the 2026 World Cup.
Being a man who divides opinion, Ochoa is emerging as the fans’ favourite given the poor state of national football in terms of goalkeepers. In contrast to what was experienced in previous decades, a time when there were talented and confident options in goal, there is currently not much to choose from.
Experience is the strong point for contemplating Paco Memo as the one in charge of protecting and saving the tricolor goal.
Who is Guillermo Ochoa competing against for the Mexican goalkeeping position?
Prior to Malagon’s injury, the names that were most strongly considered for the starting goalkeeper position were Raul ‘Tala’ Rangel, Carlos Acevedo and Carlos Moreno. However, there are also doubts about them because they do not fully convince the coaching staff headed by Javier Aguirre.
Once it was reported that the Club America goalkeeper is out of the World Cup, another goalkeeper appeared on the map of speculation and betting: Andres Gudino of Cruz Azul. In fact, communicators and fans place him as their number one candidate.
He can make history alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
They are already historic, but if they lack anything in their records, Messi and Cristiano are excited to participate in the 2026 World Cup because they will completely change soccer. Their physical condition and care of their bodies have allowed them to have a long career compared to many players. If they play in the World Cup, they will become the two geniuses who played in six World Cup editions. Six!
However, they are not the only ones. While it is true that they stand out as outfield players, this does not mean that goalkeepers are not important. In this sense, Guillermo Ochoa can establish the same record alongside them.
- Paco Memo matched Antonio Carbajal’s record with five World Cups. Along with Rafael Marquez and Andres Guardado, the goalkeepers set a World Cup record that currently belongs to Mexico: having four players with five World Cups.
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