The dispute for ownership in the goal of the Mexican National Team continues to generate debate a few days after the debut in the World Cup 2026. However, two authoritative voices of national football, Francisco Javier “Maza” Rodríguez and Oscar “Rabbit” Pérezthey are clear about who should guard the Tricolor arch against South Africa: Raul Rangel.
The former national teams agreed that the goalkeeper of Guadalajara He is going through the best moment of his career and has the necessary arguments to prevail in the internal competition over the experienced Guillermo Ochoawho was called up to compete in his sixth World Cup.
Maza Rodríguez bets on Raúl Rangel as a starter
The former defender of the Mexican National Teama three-time World Cup winner, assured that the goal will be one of the most important decisions for Javier Aguirrealthough he considers that Rangel starts with an advantage.
“I see a very solid defensive line and a very intense battle in goal; I think Rangel It should be the one that starts, although we can expect some surprises. Javier has that plus, suddenly he trains with some and on game day he puts in others,” said Rodríguez.
In addition to supporting the red and white goalkeeper, the former defender highlighted the defensive strength of the national team heading into the start of the World Cup tournament.
Conejo Pérez supports the candidacy of Raúl Rangel
For its part, Oscar “Rabbit” Pérezwho defended the Mexican goal in three World Cups, agreed with Maza’s analysis and assured that the goalkeeper of Chivas He has shown the consistency necessary to keep the position.
“There has been a lot of talk about the goalkeepers. Anyone who starts the goal will be safe, although I think that Rangel He has done very well, Javier supports him, so I think he can start. Javier is a very exact guy in the details,” Pérez noted.
The historic goalkeeper made it clear that his position does not minimize the quality of the other candidates, since he considers that there is a very even level between the three goalkeepers called up.
Ochoa, Rangel and Acevedo: a close competition in El Tri
Although he showed a preference for Raul Rangelthe Perez Rabbit highlighted that both Guillermo Ochoa as Carlos Acevedo They have the necessary conditions to respond if they are chosen by the coaching staff.
“I like the three goalkeepers, but Rangel He has had great consistency with Guadalajara, that’s why I think he can be there,” he stressed.
The final decision will be in the hands of Javier Aguirrewho has maintained suspense regarding the lineup he will use in the World Cup premiere.
Johan Vázquez receives praise heading into the World Cup
Beyond the debate in the goal, the Maza Rodriguez also highlighted the growth of Johan Vazquezwho has established himself as one of the main Mexican figures in Europe thanks to his performance with the Genoa from Italy.
“I really like the centre-backs. I highlight what they have shown Johanwho is doing very well in Italian football, I hope that his performances are enough for him to jump to a bigger team; I think he can be the benchmark for Mexican soccer,” said ‘Maza’.
The defender’s actions have caused many to consider him as the leader of the new generation of the Tricolor.
Maza Rodríguez trusts in a good start for Mexico against South Africa
The former player of PSV Eindhoven He acknowledged that there is enthusiasm among fans for the debut of the national team and expressed his confidence in the squad chosen by Javier Aguirre.
“I am happy with this selection and eager to see them. This selection is the best he chose Javier Aguirrethey have a lot of quality and there is nothing better than competing here with their people; We are going to support you with everything. Mexico “They must start by winning and I hope they do what we couldn’t,” he said.
The Mexican National Team will face his first World Cup match next Thursday against South Africa in it Aztec Stadiumwhere he will seek to start his path in the highest football competition with a victory.
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