World-class every four years: the World Cup buzz is back
World-class every four years: the World Cup buzz is back A cross into the middle for Mario Gomez. The Germany striker cleverly redirects the ball toward goal with the outside of his boot, only to be denied once again by Germany’s final boss. In the 89th minute, Guillermo Ochoa launches himself at the ball at exactly the right moment and, thanks to a world-class performance, seals Mexico’s 1-0 opening win at the 2018 World Cup.
Nothing unusual for this goalkeeper at a World Cup. Back in 2014, he drove Brazil to despair, and in 2022 he even made football history against Poland. Guillermo Ochoa is probably the biggest World Cup phenomenon of the past 20 years.
This summer, the Mexican could possibly play in his sixth World Cup, which would make him the record holder for most World Cup final tournaments played. And above all, fate seems to be on his side. Just under two weeks ago, a horror injury rocked the Mexican national team.
First-choice goalkeeper Luis Malagón ruptured his Achilles tendon in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. His dream of a home World Cup was shattered, and coach Javier Aguirre was left scrambling: who is supposed to guard El Tri’s goal this summer? Could it really be the now 40-year-old Guillermo Ochoa?
Initial comeback rumors started circulating online, and in recent weeks they were confirmed. For the upcoming friendlies against Portugal and Belgium, Aguirre called Ochoa back into the Mexico squad for the first time since 2024. Hopefully, by now, he has already watched the highlight reels from the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups.