aEvery four years, a fatal accident occurs on the eve of the World Cup. Mexico became one of the victims through Club América and Mexican national team goalkeeper Luis Angel Malagon. The injury ruled him out of the World Cup.
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As soon as the footage of Guillermo Ochoa’s broken Achilles tendon against the Philadelphia Union aired, the national soccer community began calling Guillermo Ochoa’s name. Malagon’s misfortune was interpreted as a sign that Paco Memo should be the starting goalkeeper at the 2026 World Cup.
Ochoa is divisive, but he has emerged as a fan favorite given the poor state of national football in terms of goalkeepers. In contrast to the era of talented and confident goal-scoring options we experienced in previous decades, we don’t have many options today.
Experience is a strength in thinking of Paco Memo as the person responsible for protecting and saving the Tricolor Goal.
Who will Guillermo Ochoa face as he competes for the Mexican goalkeeper position?
Before Malagon’s injury, the players most heavily considered for the starting goalie position were Raul “Tara” Rangel, Carlos Acevedo, and Carlos Moreno. However, there are doubts as he has not completely convinced the coaching staff led by Javier Aguirre.
Another goalkeeper, Andres Gudino of Cruz Azul, has appeared on the speculation and betting map after it was reported that the Club América goalkeeper would be absent from the World Cup. In fact, communicators and fans have listed him as their first choice.
He can make history alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
They have already made history, but even if their record leaves something to be desired, Messi and Cristiano are excited to take part in the 2026 World Cup because it will change football forever. Their fitness and care for their bodies allowed them to have longer careers than many players. If they make it to the World Cup, they will be two prodigies who have played in six World Cups. Six!
But that’s not all. It’s true that they stand out as outfielders, but that doesn’t mean goalies aren’t important. In this sense, Guillermo Ochoa can set the same record alongside them.
Paco Memo equaled Antonio Carvajal’s record of five World Cup appearances. Along with Rafael Marquez and Andres Guardado, the goalkeeper set Mexico’s World Cup record. That means four players have appeared in five World Cups.
