Mexican star misses out on special FIFA token as he sets record at the World Cup
As Mexico kept their perfect record in the World Cup 2026 group stage, the host country gave a special moment to the soon-to-be-retired star goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa. Even though this was a big milestone for him, FIFA didn’t give him a special patch to mark the occasion.
After winning their first two games, Mexico was able to rest some key players when they faced the Czech Republic. Even with a second-string team, they scored two goals early, pleasing the home crowd and securing first place in Group A. This also meant they’d face a third-place team in the Round of 32, which is seen as an easier match.
In the second half, Mexico made a memorable moment by substituting their 17-year-old rising star Gilberto Mora, right before bringing on the legendary Ochoa. Fans at the Azteca stadium cheered loudly as Ochoa made what is likely his last appearance on the field.
With Mexico comfortably beating Czechia 3-0, Ochoa didn’t have much to do during the game, but after the final whistle, his teammates lifted him up in a touching celebration.
This wasn’t just a personal achievement. Playing in six World Cups is a rare feat, and other big names like Manuel Neuer, Yūto Nagatomo, and Cristiano Ronaldo received special patches to honor this. However, Ochoa didn’t get one, even though this is his sixth World Cup too.
Starting as a third-choice keeper in 2006, Ochoa didn’t play back then, but over the last 20 years, he has earned 151 caps for Mexico. Even without the patch, his status as a beloved legend means more than any badge.
Ochoa’s emotions showed after the game, as he shed tears just like Neymar did a few hours earlier. At 40 years and 347 days old, Ochoa became the sixth-oldest player in World Cup history, ranking just above Luka Modric and just below Cristiano Ronaldo, both of whom also made the top ten this tournament.
Only five players—Pat Jennings, Ronaldo, Roger Milla, Faryd Mondragon, and Essam El Hadary—have played in the World Cup at an older age than Ochoa.
Mexico’s World Cup run isn’t over yet, and we might still see Ochoa on the field again, even if he won’t wear the number one jersey. Raul Rangel is likely to keep the starting goalkeeper spot as Mexico starts its fight through the knockout rounds.
If things go well, Mexico might meet England in the Round of 16 in Mexico City. The winner of that game could then face Brazil or Norway in the Quarter-Finals. It’s shaping up to be an exciting journey for Mexico!