Mexico’s Winless Run Continues Heading Into 2026

Mexico closed out 2025 with a 2–1 loss to Paraguay in San Antonio, another frustrating result in a stretch where wins have been hard to come by since lifting the Gold Cup. After a steady first half, Paraguay struck right after the break, punishing a defensive mistake to take the lead. Mexico responded quickly through Raúl Jiménez, who buried a penalty to tie the match, but the momentum faded almost immediately. Paraguay answered off a corner just minutes later, reclaiming the lead and holding it the rest of the way.

The result wasn’t just about one match — it extended a worrying run where Mexico has struggled to find consistency, identity, and rhythm. Defensive lapses, slow transitions, and missed opportunities continue to shape their performances, raising questions heading into a vital stretch on the road to the World Cup.

This was Mexico’s final match before a long pause, and the next window in March will bring major tests. Mexico is set to host Portugal on March 28, 2026, at the newly renovated Estadio Azteca in what will be the stadium’s ceremonial reopening ahead of the World Cup opener. Just days later, on March 31, they’ll face Belgium in the United States — another elite opponent designed to prepare El Tri for the global stage.

With two high-level matchups ahead and the World Cup approaching fast, Mexico enters 2026 knowing exactly how much improvement is still needed.

Here are some moments from the match.