Roberto Martínez, the head coach of the Portugal national team, has no doubts: Mexico should be considered one of the main contenders for victory in the upcoming World Cup. In an exclusive interview with TUDN, the Spanish coach analyzed the impressive history of the Mexican national team, especially when playing at home, highlighting the Estadio Azteca as a true fortress for the team.
Martínez emphasized the importance of the home factor for Mexico, which traditionally excels in competitions held on its territory. “Mexico is a team that always makes great use of the advantage of playing at home. Although it often does not progress beyond the group stage, it is undeniable that in World Cups held in Mexico, the team has reached the quarter-finals,” he recalled. The coach’s confidence is palpable: “We are talking about a team that, at the Azteca, must be one of the candidates.”
Another crucial point addressed by Martínez is the opportunity for Portugal to play at the iconic Estadio Azteca, which he considers a valuable test and ideal preparation for the World Cup. “Being able to play at the Azteca is the best preparation for the World Cup. The players have already started talking about it… each one has their own memory, and the Azteca is a stadium that is a reference in World Cups,” he commented, highlighting the unique atmosphere that the stadium provides.
The Portuguese coach also praised the passionate base of Mexican supporters, an element that makes all the difference. “It’s a great national team. I have always been impressed by the level of the fans, whether in South Africa or Brazil… the demands, the expectations, and the way the national team is supported… having that atmosphere at the Azteca is, for us, the best preparation for the World Cup,” he emphasized, referring to the impact that popular support has on the team’s performances.
Martínez also expressed his admiration for Mexican coach Javier Aguirre, acknowledging his ability to shape competitive teams. “Aguirre is someone I greatly admire and who has had a remarkable career in Spain. His teams are always well organized and competitive,” he stated, before highlighting the performance of young talents such as Gilberto Mora, who impressed at the Under-20 World Cup, and Raúl Jiménez, a former player for Benfica.
“I am very happy to see talents like Mora, who can play a significant role in the national team. He had memorable performances against Morocco and Spain, and that surprised me. The Mexican national team is undoubtedly very competitive and open to young talents,” Martínez said, praising Jiménez as a world-class forward.
Finally, the coach revealed a personal curiosity: his passion for football was influenced by Mexican football. “It’s interesting. I believe it’s Mexico’s fault because it was the 86 World Cup that captivated me. We are all in football because of those moments I shared with my father, watching the games. The 82 World Cup in Spain and 86 were significant times,” he concluded, highlighting the deep emotional connection he has with the sport and its history.
With a compelling and passionate analysis, Roberto Martínez places Mexico in the spotlight for the upcoming World Cup, promising an exciting tournament full of surprises.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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