It’s almost that time when Mexican American futbol fans get to decide what team they’ll root for during the 2026 World Cup. For this writer, after having been to Estadio Azteca’s hallowed grounds, there’s but one choice. There’s plenty to cheer for on the Mexican Men’s National Futbol team, part of the three teams “hosting” this year’s FIFA World Cup festivities. 

For one, goalie Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa is back for his SIXTH tournament appearance. Midfielder Luis Chavez is back after an ACL tear during Gold Cup training in 2025. Santiago Gimenez, teammate to USMNT’s Christian Pulisic on AC Milan, is also returning to the 26-man roster. 

Coached by Javier Aguirre once more, El Tri is looking to make their mark in this year’s tournament. Los Incondicionales (Mexico fans who support the team unconditionally, win, lose or forfeit due to slurs) will be there for the entire ride. 

Here’s what Mexico faces in Group A of the FIFA World Cup tournament and when to watch the games. 

Mexico vs. South Africa — Thursday, June 11

Estadio Azteca (or Estadio Ciudad Mexico or … Estadio Banorte) will host the opening game for El Tri against South Africa. Mexico is favored to win by 69 percent so home turf could help seal that deal.

What time is the match? 2 p.m. CST

How can I watch the match? Telemundo, Peacock and FOX Sports

Mexico vs. South Korea — Thursday, June 18

A week later, El Tri pops over to Estadio Guadalajara for a match against South Korea. The match in Zapopan heavily favors Mexico once more with a 53% favorability. The host country welcomed the South Korean team with mariachis at the airport. K-Pop/mariachi collab when? Soccer ball’s in your court, BTS.

What time is the match? 8 p.m. CST

How can I watch the match: Telemundo, Peacock and FOX Sports

Mexico vs. Czechia — Wednesday, June 24

It’s another late match, and Mexico is once more favored to win. As documented by the Dallas Morning News, Czechia’s team will be logging some 5,000 miles getting to each of their matches. As one of the last teams to qualify for this year’s tournament, the Czech team didn’t get much say on their preferred training base camp. Let’s see how much energy they bring to their final Group A match against El Tri at Mexico City Stadium. 

What time is the match? 8 p.m. CST

How can I watch the match: Telemundo, Peacock and FOX Sports