El Tri, adrift again

The 1-1 draw between Mexico and Ecuador yesterday, Tuesday, at the Akron Stadium in Jalisco, provoked loud boos from the fans, reflecting the discontent with the national team's performance less than nine months before the opening of the 2026 World Cup.

After the 4-0 defeat to Colombia and the home defeat against Ecuador, doubts reappeared surrounding the team coached by Javier Aguirre.

“When we won both Cups, everything was going swimmingly. Now, after these results, people are returning to skepticism, to doubts about lineups and the system. We have to get used to it,” the coach said.

After winning the Nations League and the Gold Cup, both this year, optimism seemed to be returning, but draws against South Korea and Japan, along with recent results, changed the mood.

"I can inflate results by bringing in rivals that suit me, but from the first minute I said no. We were able to win official competitions against the best in the area, and from then on, they're top-flight rivals. This lack of winning is making us stronger," said "Vasco" Aguirre.

The strategist acknowledged that some players didn't live up to expectations and will continue the search to define the final roster for the World Cup.

For the next FIFA matchday, Mexico will face Uruguay in Torreón and Paraguay in San Antonio, while two other friendly matches could be played in Central America in January, although these have not yet been confirmed.

One of the most talked about topics is goalkeeping.

Aguirre acknowledged that "the position he has the most doubts about is goalkeeper" and that none of the seven players called up have convinced him.

Luis Malagón didn't take advantage of his opportunity, Raúl Rangel had a solid performance against Ecuador, and Carlos Acevedo didn't play. The return of Guillermo Ochoa, currently with AEL Limassol in Cyprus, appears imminent.

Aguirre praised the veteran goalkeeper, who is looking to add to his legend with his sights set on his sixth World Cup.

As for defense, only César Montes, Johan Vázquez, and Erik Lira returned against Colombia, ahead of the defenders.

“Draw your own conclusions. We're looking for players between now and the World Cup,” Aguirre said, referring to the number of match-to-match substitutions.

Regarding the forward line, he said he had no major concerns. Despite another lackluster performance from Santiago Giménez, he highlighted the contribution of Germán Berterame, who scored the goal against Ecuador.— AP