After a frustrating goalless draw with Japan, Javier Aguirre’s Mexico face South Korea in Nashville with pressure mounting. With Edson Álvarez ruled out and changes expected, all eyes turn to Santiago Giménez to lead El Tri’s response.
Mexico head into their second friendly of the September window under scrutiny after a flat 0-0 draw against Japan in Oakland. Manager Javier Aguirre admitted his side “didn’t deserve to win” and has been criticized for his squad selections and the team’s lack of attacking spark. On Tuesday, El Tri face South Korea at GEODIS Park in Nashville — a test that could reveal how close Aguirre is to finding his preferred lineup ahead of the 2026 World Cup on home soil.
Despite lifting the Nations League and Gold Cup earlier this year, Aguirre has yet to settle on a definitive starting XI. Injuries and underperforming regulars complicate the picture further. With Edson Álvarez sidelined for three weeks due to a muscle problem, plus several first-choice players at risk of being rotated, Mexico are likely to experiment again against the Taegeuk Warriors.
Goalkeeper: Luis Ángel Malagón
The Club América goalkeeper has logged the most minutes under Aguirre and remains the frontrunner to start at the World Cup. Despite recent criticism, Malagón is expected to retain his place, though Raúl Rangel could be handed a rare opportunity if Aguirre opts for rotation.
Defence: Rodrigo Huescas, César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Mateo Chávez
Jorge Sánchez and Jesús Gallardo started against Japan, but both could drop out. Rising stars Rodrigo Huescas (Copenhagen) and Mateo Chávez (AZ Alkmaar) are tipped to come in, joining César Montes and Johan Vásquez in the back line. This combination could signal Aguirre’s long-term vision for his defense.
Midfield: Erik Lira, Marcel Ruiz, Erick Sánchez
Álvarez’s absence opens the door for Erik Lira to anchor the midfield. Marcel Ruiz is likely to keep his place, while Erick Sánchez could start over Orbelín Pineda to add box-to-box energy. Carlos Rodríguez is also in contention should Aguirre want more control in possession.
Attack: Diego Lainez, Santiago Giménez, Alexis Vega
The attack is where Aguirre faces his biggest decision. Raúl Jiménez struggled against Japan, paving the way for Feyenoord striker Santiago Giménez to start. Diego Lainez is expected to replace Roberto Alvarado, with Alexis Vega retaining his spot — though Hirving Lozano is pushing hard for a recall. El Tri desperately need chemistry and cutting edge in the final third, and Giménez’s movement could be the difference.
The bigger picture
Mexico’s World Cup opener against Canada at Estadio Azteca is less than a year away, but their form under Aguirre still raises doubts. South Korea represent another stern test — organized, disciplined, and capable of punishing lapses. For Mexico, it is not just about the result but also about showing attacking intent and defensive stability.
Should Santiago Giménez step up with a decisive performance, he could strengthen his claim as the striker to lead Mexico into the 2026 World Cup on home soil.
