Javier Aguirre says his Mexico side will need a near-perfect performance to keep their World Cup run alive when they face Ecuador at the Azteca Stadium on Tuesday, where the co-hosts will hope the home support can become the 12th man again.
Mexico topped Group A with three wins, six goals and conceded no goals, while Ecuador reached the knockout stages after a 2-1 comeback win over Germany.
Aguirre, who has coached Mexico at two previous World Cups, said the build-up to the last 32 felt different on Monday because of the stage and setting.
“This is the first time ever that playing at home is like playing your No. 12,” Aguirre said. “Nevertheless, we are aware that we have a country that supports us, which is very, very encouraging and motivating.”
However, Ecuador comes with momentum and an urgent game that Aguirre clearly respects.
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«I expect a very intense Ecuador team. That’s what (Sebastian) Beccacece’s teams are like: very intense, with very high pressure, very committed in tracking, very combative in one-on-one duels.»
«They are among the best of the 48 participating teams. They are a very intense team, very courageous, just like their coach,» the 67-year-old Mexican coach added.
“All I can say is that we will have to play an almost perfect match to stay in the competition.”
Mexico has not won a World Cup knockout match since 1986, when Aguirre was part of the squad. When asked about that history, he accepted responsibility for past failures.
«I’ve made mistakes. I’m sure I’ve made mistakes on both occasions, and I’ll certainly continue to make mistakes throughout my career because you’re here to learn,» he said, referring to when he took charge at the 2002 and 2010 World Cups.
“The most important thing is that you don’t make the same mistakes.”
Despite the pressure, Aguirre urged his team to remain calm and stick to their plan.
“The message is the same: one game at a time, one day at a time, and try to play better each time.”
Published on June 30, 2026
