Guardado: Mexico aiming for best-ever World Cup finish

Andres Guardado, one of the most iconic figures in Mexico's modern World Cup history, has shared his insights on La Tri's journey at the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The former midfielder, who played in five tournaments from Germany 2006 to Qatar 2022, is now working as a television pundit for Telemundo during the 2026 finals. In an exclusive interview with FIFA, Guardado reflected on Mexico's progress, standout performers, the fervent atmosphere across the co-host nation, and his picks for tournament favorites.

Mexico's Group Stage Success and Home Advantage

Guardado expressed satisfaction with Mexico's performance so far. "Everything has gone to plan. The first objective was to get through [the group stage], and we've done that," he said. "There's a real sense of excitement because it means we'll get to play at home in the round of 32, and hopefully the last 16 as well. We want to produce our best-ever World Cup performance."

Mexico's best World Cup finish came in 1970 and 1986, when they reached the quarterfinals on home soil. The current squad aims to surpass that milestone.

Electric Atmosphere Across Mexico

Guardado described the atmosphere in Mexico as "incredible." He noted, "I've said it before, but you feel it the moment you arrive. The streets across Mexico have been absolutely electric. It helps that the team have been winning, which takes it up another notch." He also highlighted the passion of fans from other nations, citing the scenes after Colombia's victory when supporters flooded Plaza El Angel. "That's the thing – we experience the World Cup differently in Mexico. We live and breathe football," he added.

Goalkeeping Pressure and Rangel's Confidence

Guardado addressed the pressure on starting goalkeeper Rangel, noting the legacy of veteran Memo Ochoa. "It's one thing when the man on the bench has never played at a World Cup; it's another when you've got someone like Memo Ochoa, with his track record. That puts extra pressure on the starting goalkeeper. But Rangel is handling it really well. Against Korea Republic, he made a brilliant save to preserve the win in the final minutes. That's going to give him a lot of confidence as the tournament goes on."

Key Players: Quinones and Lira

Guardado identified Julian Quinones as a difference-maker in attack. "This is the most fluid Mexico have looked going forward. Quinones has been the difference-maker. Or rather, he's the one most intent on unsettling defences," Guardado said. He noted that Quinones was a late addition to the World Cup squad but had already proven his quality by finishing as top scorer in Saudi Arabia, which helped him break into the side. "He's made a real impact."

However, Guardado emphasized the importance of midfielder Lira, who he called "central to everything Mexico have achieved." He explained, "I love that people are talking about Lira, because it gives recognition to a position that often goes unnoticed but is vital to how a team functions. He has been outstanding, playing at an absolutely top level. He does everything well – he covers superbly and presses intelligently. The first goal against South Africa came about because he pushed forward, applied pressure and won the ball back in the opposing team's half. For me, he's central to everything Mexico have achieved. Quinones will draw the headlines for his goal and attacking influence, but Lira is the key player."

Tournament Favorites and Surprises

Guardado admitted that the United States have surprised him. "To be honest, the USA have surprised me. They've looked very good in their first two matches, particularly going forward. They are playing direct, with plenty of variety, both keeping possession and looking to play in behind. They've made a strong start."

When asked about favorites, Guardado pointed to traditional powerhouses. "I think France have lived up to expectations, and Argentina as well." He also singled out Morocco as a team to watch. "Another team that will attract plenty of attention are Morocco. They've already shown they can maintain the level they reached at the last World Cup. I expect them to cause problems for a few teams again."