The Mexican national team is slowly rediscovering its best version. The 2026 World Cup is getting closer and closer. Although the first objective would be to overcome the obstacle of the round of 16, Juan Carlos Osorio is much more optimistic about El Tri.

The former Mexico national team coach highlighted the quality of El Tri's coaching staff. For Osorio, it's a luxury to have Javier Aguirre on the bench and Rafa Márquez as his assistant. This duality can greatly benefit the Mexican team.

"I think the Mexican national team is in very good hands. I think Don Javier has a lot of experience, and Rafael is coming and will surely be a top manager, given the way he's been preparing... that combination could be very good," Osorio said in an interview with Faitelson.

Clearly, El Tri's first objective is to advance past the round of 16. For several World Cups, the fourth match has been the obstacle that Mexico hasn't been able to overcome.

However, Juan Carlos Osorio believes that Mexico can take advantage of the short tournament. Historically, short tournaments have generated more surprises in the world of football. Good preparation can put any team in contention for the top spots in the championship. That's how the Colombian sees it, as he believes El Tri can lift the World Cup trophy.

"I do believe (that Mexico will be champion). In the Champions League, how many games do they have to play to win? Seven or eight games. How many in a World Cup?" he added.

Javier Aguirre's journey

Javier Aguirre took over the reins of the Mexican national team in July 2024. Along with Rafa Márquez, the "Vasco" has led this El Tri project that would culminate in the 2026 World Cup.

So far, the "Vasco" has officiated in 14 matches. During that number of matches, Javier Aguirre has a record of 10 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. The only losses for the "Vasco" team were against Honduras 2-0 and against Switzerland 4-2.