One day before the round of 32 match of the 2026 World Cup, Javier Aguirre chose to spread the pressure and showered Ecuador with praise, ensuring that its growth has placed it at the level of South American powers such as Argentina, Brazil and Colombia.

The coach of the Mexico national team made it clear that the team led by Sebastián Beccacece will be one of the most demanding challenges his team has faced in the World Cup and called for a practically perfect match to advance to the round of 16.

Javier Aguirre assures that Ecuador is already among the powers of South America

During the conference prior to the match, Javier Aguirre highlighted the evolution that Ecuador has had in recent years, both for the results obtained and for the quality of footballers it exports to the main leagues in the world.

"Ecuador has grown a lot. It was below its usual counterparts, Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil, but now Ecuador has reached, together with Colombia, that level. It has many players outside its league, it is a highly respected rival, it has grown in its area and at a global level with this export of players," said the Mexican strategist.

The coach's words come after the Ecuadorian team finished in second place in the Conmebol qualifiers and surprised by defeating Germany during the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

The Mexico coach anticipates a very complicated match

For Javier Aguirre, the duel at the Azteca stadium will be a highly demanding test due to the style of play that characterizes Ecuador.

"I expect a very intense Ecuador, with very high pressure. Combative one-on-one. I expect a very close game, with many individual duels. They beat Germany and that says it all, so we are going to have to be very alert to impose our style and win," he explained.

The coach also highlighted the work of Sebastián Beccacece, whom he considers one of the most competitive coaches in the tournament.

"Ecuador has a team that allows you to play very little on its field, it is one of the best of the 48 in this World Cup. It is an intense and brave team like its coach. I know Beccacece from Spain, he plans the games very well, it is going to be a very nice challenge," he pointed out.

Aguirre asks for an almost perfect match to stay alive

The Mexican strategist acknowledged that the Mexican team will have to offer an error-free performance to stay alive in the 2026 World Cup.

"We have everything, less anxiety or nervousness, on the contrary. We must play an almost perfect game to stay in the World Cup. I hope we are good in the middle and lower block, to be forceful to be good," he noted.

The youth of the Mexican team convinces Vasco Aguirre

Beyond the challenge of facing Ecuador, Javier Aguirre said he feels supported by the personality he has found in his squad, which he considers prepared to compete under pressure.

"The maturity that these kids have shown me is surprising, they infect me, I am 67 years old and I would say that I could be the grandfather of many of them. They are kids who are not afraid of anything, success or what they can achieve and that infects you. I let them dream and give themselves," he concluded.

This Tuesday, the Mexican team will seek its ticket to the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup against an Ecuador that arrives strengthened after an outstanding group stage and with the recognition of Javier Aguirre himself, who did not hesitate to place it among the most competitive teams on the continent.