Background on Javier Aguirre and His Role
Javier Aguirre, known as “El Vasco,” has recently experienced his third loss as the head coach of Mexico’s national team (Selección Mexicana) in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The latest defeat came against Switzerland with a score of 2-4, following previous losses of 0-2 against Honduras and 0-2 against River Plate in earlier months.
Aguirre, renowned for his demanding approach and emphasis on physicality during his two decades in LaLiga of Spain, took responsibility for the result while expressing disappointment over his players’ lack of personality.
Analysis of the Match Against Switzerland
The match, though an amistoso (friendly), prompted Aguirre to self-suspend due to the team’s performance against Switzerland. He criticized both collective and individual errors, stating that such mistakes cannot be tolerated with a team of this caliber.
- First-half performance: Aguirre pointed out the team’s lack of personality, describing how players seemed to crumble after conceding the first goal. He emphasized that a Mexican team cannot display such weakness under his leadership.
- Defensive errors:
- Breel Embolo of Mónaco scored the opening goal in the 20th minute.
- Defensive lapses led to multiple scoring opportunities for Switzerland, including chances by Santiago Giménez and Roberto Alvarado.
- Second-half improvement: Despite the first half’s shortcomings, Aguirre noted some positive aspects in the second half, such as Santiago Giménez breaking a 16-game scoring drought for Mexico and Ángel Sepúlveda’s late goal.
- Young players’ contributions: Aguirre acknowledged the performances of Mateo Chávez, Gilberto Mora, and Efraín Álvarez, highlighting their potential and the experience gained from playing in such high-profile matches.
Aguirre’s Accountability and Future Plans
Aguirre accepted full responsibility for the loss, stating that while he doesn’t name specific players, the blame ultimately falls on him as the coach who decides player selection and strategy.
He plans to review the match footage, identify both positive and negative aspects, and work on improvements before the next game against Turquía. The primary goal remains preparing for the Copa Oro (Gold Cup), which Aguirre considers crucial for the team’s development.
With 11 matches under his third tenure as Mexico’s head coach since September 2024, Aguirre’s record stands at six wins, two draws, and three losses, with 19 goals for and 11 against.
Key Questions and Answers
- What led to Javier Aguirre’s self-suspension? The heavy loss (2-4) against Switzerland, coupled with his disappointment over the team’s lack of personality and defensive errors.
- What were some criticisms of the team’s performance? Aguirre pointed out a lack of personality, defensive lapses, and nervousness on the field, both with and without the ball.
- What positive aspects did Aguirre acknowledge? Santiago Giménez breaking his scoring drought, Ángel Sepúlveda’s late goal, and the contributions of young players like Mateo Chávez, Gilberto Mora, and Efraín Álvarez.
- What are Aguirre’s plans moving forward? To review the match footage, identify areas for improvement, and focus on preparing for the upcoming Copa Oro tournament.
