It was an unforgettable evening on the Estadio Azteca for Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa. After matching Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as the one three gamers in historical past to be chosen to 6 completely different World Cup rosters, the legendary goalkeeper lastly made his 2026 match debut throughout Mexico’s dominant 3-0 victory over Czechia.
With El Tri comfortably main 2-0 within the 77th minute, supervisor Javier Aguirre made the sentimental resolution to substitute beginning goalkeeper Raúl Rangel, permitting Ochoa to step onto the pitch and log minutes in what would be the ultimate World Cup cycle of his iconic profession.
When requested by a reporter after the match what headline he would give to Mexico‘s commanding victory, Aguirre didn’t hesitate: “It was Memo Ochoa’s evening,” the supervisor said, including that the veteran shot-stopper deserved each little bit of the thunderous affection raining down from the stands.
By stepping onto the pitch, Ochoa marked his twelfth profession look within the match, transferring him right into a tie for third place on Mexico’s all-time World Cup appearances listing alongside Héctor Moreno and Javier “Chicharito” Hernández.
Ochoa displays on a historic second
There isn’t any doubt this was a uniquely emotional milestone for Ochoa. He entered the 2026 match accepting a backup function behind Rangel and certain wouldn’t have seen motion below regular circumstances barring an surprising harm.
see additionally
Group A Determined: Mexico and South Africa study Spherical of 32 venues and potential opponents
Nonetheless, with the victory totally secured, Memo obtained his second within the highlight to play in his ultimate World Cup on dwelling soil. “So a few years working by way of my head, so many tales. My first match right here, lifting trophies on this pitch, defining moments with the nationwide staff, and the love of the followers,” Ochoa stated in a post-match on-field interview.
The veteran goalkeeper was additionally deeply emotional as he expressed his gratitude for with the ability to expertise these milestone moments one ultimate time. “I’m extremely grateful to the followers, to my teammates, and to my coach for letting me expertise this ultimate second,” he added.
