Mexico’s unexpected striker solution ahead of the World Cup
Due to the unavailability of other strikers, Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre may opt to call up a veteran Liga MX performer.
The Mexican national team continues its preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off on June 11 with El Tri’s Group A game against South Africa at the Estadio Azteca.
Even though it’s not an official international window, Mexico will see action next week, facing off against Iceland - a friendly matchup where Pumas’ Guillermo Martínez could emerge as one of Javier Aguirre’s surprise selections.
Martínez’s Mexico path opens up
Sources close to AS México have indicated that the striker is in line for a potential call-up by “El Vasco”, largely due to the absences of players based outside Mexico, who are unavailable because the match does not fall on a FIFA date.
Aguirre is not considering Henry Martín, who is just coming off an injury. Meanwhile, Germán Berterame is no longer eligible since his recent departure from Monterrey to MLS club Inter Miami - again, it’s not a FIFA‑sanctioned match.
Given this scenario, Aguirre will have to rely exclusively on players currently in Liga MX. Alongside Martínez, Armando “La Hormiga” González is also in contention as he looks to secure a place on the World Cup roster.
Martínez’s numbers for club and country
So far in the Liga MX’s Clausura 2026 tournament, Martínez has appeared in four matches for Pumas, though only one as a starter, logging one goal across 127 minutes played.
Since his December 2023 debut for the senior national team, the striker has been capped eight times - featuring in friendlies as well as the Copa América and CONCACAF Nations League - and has tallied two goals.
When is Mexico vs Iceland?
The friendly between Mexico and Iceland is scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT, at Estadio La Corregidora in Querétaro.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment