Guillermo Ochoa is set to make history. The 40-year-old goalkeeper has been named to Mexico's squad for the 14th FIFA World Cup, which would make him the first Mexican player to appear at six editions of the tournament.
Ochoa made his World Cup debut in Germany in 2006. While he has seen limited action for the national team in recent years, manager Javier Aguirre has called on his experience, blending it with youth.
Captain Edson Alvarez and striker Raul Jimenez provide veteran leadership. Emerging talents include 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora, who would become the youngest Mexican to play at a World Cup. Dual nationals Obed Vargas and Brian Gutierrez, developed in the U.S., are also on the squad.
Aguirre, leading Mexico at a World Cup for the third time after 2002 and 2010, has brought in naturalized players Alvaro Fidalgo and Julian Quinones.
Mexico, quarterfinalists when they last hosted in 1986, will co-host the 2026 tournament with the United States and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
Mexico plays a final warm-up against Serbia on Thursday before opening the World Cup against South Africa at Estadio Azteca on June 11.