Javier Aguirre Reflects on Past Mistakes as Mexico Prepares for Nations League Semifinal
In the world of soccer, few things linger in the minds of coaches and fans alike as much as the memories of past World Cup performances. For Mexico’s coach, Javier Aguirre, the 2002 World Cup remains a poignant reminder of how a single tactical error can have long-lasting consequences. As he prepares his team for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League semifinal against Canada on Thursday, Aguirre candidly discussed the mistake that led to Mexico’s stunning 2-0 loss to the United States during his first tenure with the national team.
Reflecting on the past, Aguirre admitted, “I made a mistake by changing a lineup I hadn’t practiced.” This decision, made 23 years ago, resulted in Mexico’s bitter round-of-16 exit at the tournament held in Japan and South Korea. “It feels bad when you make a mistake. And your country, because of your fault, because it’s yours, is dropped out of a World Cup,” he added, highlighting the personal burden he has carried since that fateful day.
Mexico has yet to advance beyond the round of 16 at a World Cup since hosting the competition in 1986. As the nation looks forward to co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with the U.S. and Canada, Aguirre is determined to revive a national team that has seen its once-dominant position in Concacaf slip away.
Despite leading the region in Gold Cup titles with nine, Mexico has yet to claim a Nations League trophy. The U.S. has dominated the competition, winning the titles in 2019-20, 2022-23, and 2023-24. This year’s Nations League presents an opportunity for Mexico to reclaim its status as a regional powerhouse.
On the other side of the bracket, the U.S. will face Panama on the same day as Mexico’s semifinal. The winners of these matches will meet in the final on Sunday, while the losers will compete for third place. All four matches are set to take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
In a recent conversation, Aguirre also praised former Mexico coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino for his willingness to acknowledge a potential misstep of his own. Martino controversially left out striker Santiago Gimenez from the 2022 World Cup roster. When asked by ESPN if he made a miscalculation by excluding Gimenez, Martino admitted, “it could be, I accept it.”
Aguirre commented on the importance of recognizing one’s faults, stating, “On a personal level, it frees you. Holding onto a lie leads nowhere and I still pay the consequences for my error [in 2002].” This introspection and willingness to learn from past mistakes are qualities that Aguirre hopes will guide Mexico to success in the upcoming tournaments.
- Mexico has not advanced past the round of 16 in a World Cup since 1986.
- The U.S. has won the Nations League titles in 2019-20, 2022-23, and 2023-24.
- Mexico leads the region with nine Gold Cup titles.
As the countdown to the Nations League semifinal continues, all eyes will be on Aguirre and his team. Can they overcome past challenges and reclaim their position as a dominant force in Concacaf? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Aguirre’s journey of redemption is far from over.
Originally Written by: Cesar Hernandez
