For Mexico, only the future after World Cup elimination in their own country matters

For Mexico, only the future counts after World Cup elimination in their own country

After Mexico's disappointing elimination against England in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, national coach Javier Aguirre has announced his retirement. Despite the defeat, he looks hopefully at the future of the Mexican team. Aguirre emphasized that he is proud of his team and will pass the baton to former international Rafael Marquéz.

"I can't fault my team. We did everything we could, and this is a great team. I'm extremely grateful to everyone for their support," said Aguirre. The coach left the tournament with a sense of pride, despite the pain of elimination.

Internationals such as Raúl Rangel and Erik Lira have also shared their optimism about the future of the national team. Rangel commented: "Of course there is a bad feeling after a defeat, but we have also gained a lot of experience. This has given us some peace of mind as a team because we have shown what Mexican football is all about. I believe this generation has the potential to achieve great things in the future."

Lira added: "The difference in performance and playing time was enormous between our first and fifth World Cup matches. We knew we were against a top team and for five minutes we lost our focus. That's when football is tough. It fills me with pride to be Mexican. We lost with honor. I cannot be satisfied, but I am also happy with what we achieved. We planted a seed and that will remain in our memory."

The elimination was extra bitter for former Feyenoord striker Santiago Gimenez, who fell in the match but had to be taken to hospital due to an ankle injury. Aguirre confirmed during the press conference that the severity of the injury is not yet known.

"It seemed like a story like always, after the elimination in the round of 16. But Mexico was eliminated with their heads held high. This inspires hope for the future. Thank you," said Aguirre. It is clear that despite the defeat, the Mexican team is focusing on the future with a positive mindset and the expectation that they will come back stronger.

---

Related Articles

1. La Liga president criticizes 'complicated silence' around FIFA after
2. [Mikel Merino gives Spain a late victory and eliminates Portugal](https://oranjenet.live/nl/news/mikel-merino-bezorgt-spanje-late-koning-en- Schakelt-portugal-uit)

Read more on our latest coverage and stay tuned for updates on what happens next.