Guillermo Ochoa Returns to the Mexican National Team... Will He Play His Sixth World Cup?

Guillermo Ochoa shocks fans with his return to the Mexican national team at 40. Can he play his sixth World Cup and maintain his legendary status as “Memo”?

Guillermo Ochoa Returns to El Tri at 40

The experienced goalkeeper Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa, 40, is back in the Mexican national team after being called up by Javier Aguirre for upcoming friendlies against Portugal and Belgium. This announcement has sparked excitement among fans, as Ochoa aims to play his sixth World Cup, after participating in the tournaments of 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022. According to the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), these matches will serve to assess the team’s performance and strengthen the playing style ahead of the World Cup.

After not being called up since May 2025, when he was included in the Gold Cup squad but did not see any minutes, his return not only excites supporters but raises the big question: can the veteran goalkeeper remain competitive against younger rivals?

Key Friendlies: Portugal and Belgium

Mexico will play two decisive matches in World Cup preparations. On March 28, they will face Portugal at the renovated Estadio Azteca, and three days later, they will meet Belgium at Soldier Field in Chicago. The FMF highlighted that these games will be essential to consolidate a competitive squad and evaluate player performance.

Ochoa’s return comes amid changes in the squad, with Luis Ángel Malagón sidelined due to injury, opening the door for the veteran goalkeeper’s comeback. Although his call-up is official, it has not yet been confirmed whether he will start in these friendlies, keeping fans on edge.

Álvaro Fidalgo: The Other Big Surprise

Besides Ochoa’s return, the Mexican national team presents as a novelty midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo, a Spanish-born player now naturalized as Mexican, currently playing for Real Betis after five years at América. His inclusion reflects Javier Aguirre’s intent to strengthen the midfield with experienced talent and international experience.

Fidalgo’s debut with El Tri could bring new creativity and stability to the midfield, complementing veterans like Ochoa, Raúl Jiménez, and Jesús Gallardo.

Memo Ochoa: Six World Cups in Sight?

If Ochoa makes the final World Cup squad, he would become one of the few players in history to participate in six editions of the tournament, solidifying his legacy as one of Mexico’s football icons. “Memo” not only brings experience and leadership, but also serves as a symbol of resilience and professionalism, capable of inspiring younger teammates while maintaining top-level performance despite his age.

Mexico, placed in Group A alongside South Africa, South Korea, and the winner of the European playoff, will face tough challenges. However, Ochoa’s presence could be a key factor for El Tri’s defensive security, especially in the opening match against South Africa at Estadio Azteca on June 11.