Ochoa’s Final Camp Ahead of Sixth World Cup
Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa announced on Monday that he has entered what is likely his last training camp with the Mexican national team. At 40 years old, he is preparing for a historic sixth FIFA World Cup appearance next month.
Ochoa is expected to be part of coach Javier Aguirre’s roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place from June 11 to July 19 in Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Ochoa expressed, “Putting this shirt on again has never been routine… it’s always been a privilege. Today marks the start of my last training camp, but I feel differently this time. My heart is fuller, filled with memories, scars, and the same excitement I had as a young boy dreaming of this moment.”
If he is selected, Ochoa would join an elite group of players who have participated in six World Cups, alongside legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. He has previously represented Mexico in Germany 2006, South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014, Russia 2018, and Qatar 2022.
Recently, he indicated that this World Cup might signal the end of his career. Speaking with TUDN last month, Ochoa acknowledged that it could be his last season in professional football, stating, “I’ve had unforgettable nights, thrilling matches, and anthems that give me chills.”
Playing for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, Ochoa remains one of Mexico’s most recognized players, celebrated for outstanding performances on the world stage. His remarkable saves during the 2014 World Cup against Brazil and his crucial penalty stop against Poland in 2022 have etched his name in football history.
As Mexico gears up for the tournament, the team has scheduled friendly matches against Ghana on May 22, Australia on May 30, and Serbia on June 4. Mexico will kick off its World Cup journey against South Africa in Group A on June 11.
