Background on Javier Aguirre and the Gold Cup
The Mexican national team held a press conference on the eve of their semifinal match against Honduras in the Gold Cup 2025, scheduled to take place at Levi’s Stadium in California, USA.
Head coach Javier Aguirre and defender Johan Vásquez shared their thoughts on facing Honduras, emphasizing that Mexico’s focus remains unchanged since early summer: winning the tournament.
Mexico’s Recent Performance and Honduras’ Journey
Mexico, the reigning Gold Cup champions from 2023, defeated Panama in the final. However, Panama was eliminated by Honduras in the quarterfinals of Gold Cup 2025 via penalties. Mexico, on the other hand, has remained unbeaten with three victories and one draw. They defeated Saudi Arabia 2-0 in regular time, while Honduras suffered a heavy 6-0 loss to Canada in their opening match but recovered with wins against El Salvador, Curacao, and Panama.
Respect for Honduras’ Coach
Aguirre praised Honduras’ coach, Reinaldo Rueda, for his resilience following a tough loss. “I saw coach Rueda the other day and congratulated him because you learn from defeats, growing stronger through them… It’s not easy to be thrashed like that and bounce back so quickly,” Aguirre said.
Historical Context and Player Insights
This will be the second time Mexico and Honduras meet in Gold Cup semifinals. The only previous encounter was Mexico’s 2-0 extra-time victory in 2011. Mexico aims for its tenth Gold Cup title to solidify their position as the all-time leading champion, while Honduras seeks its second final appearance—their last being 34 years ago when they lost to the USA.
Defender Johan Vásquez, who plays for Italian club Genoa, expressed confidence in the team: “I don’t know if we are favorites, but I do know that we have a lot of confidence in ourselves.”
Key Points from the Press Conference
- Aguirre highlighted Mexico’s respect for Honduras, acknowledging their impressive comeback after a rough start.
- Mexico and Honduras have faced each other twice recently in the CONCACAF Nations League, with Mexico winning both matches 2-0 at home and 4-0 away.
- Aguirre, who returned to the Mexican national team in September 2024 after previous appearances in the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, discussed his team’s progress since returning.
Aguirre’s Progress and Team Spirit
“I don’t know if we’ve improved, as comparison isn’t something I like to do. But I believe we have grown in pride and belonging. The players, both those on the team and off, show eagerness to join and contribute,” Aguirre stated.
Upcoming Match Details
Mexico will face Honduras on Wednesday, July 2nd, at 8:00 PM Central Time for a spot in the Gold Cup final. Earlier that day (1:00 PM), the USA and Guatemala will compete in the other semifinal match.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Javier Aguirre? Javier Aguirre is the head coach of the Mexican national soccer team, having returned to the role in September 2024 after previous appearances at the 2002 and 2010 World Cups.
- What is the Gold Cup? The Gold Cup is a regional soccer tournament organized by CONCACAF (Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football) featuring national teams from across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
- What are Mexico’s recent results? Mexico has remained unbeaten in the Gold Cup 2025 with three victories and one draw.
- What is the historical context between Mexico and Honduras in the Gold Cup? These teams have met twice in semifinals before, with Mexico winning 2-0 in extra time in 2011. Mexico aims for their tenth Gold Cup title, while Honduras seeks its second final appearance.
