Guillermo Ochoa faces a nervous wait to find out whether or not he will feature at a fourth World Cup for Mexico.
The veteran shot-stopper was included in the 26-man El Tricolor squad ahead of the tournament but is yet to take to the pitch.
However, with Mexico already safely through to the knockout stages after two wins from their opening two matches, fans and even current players have called for the 40-year-old to start between the sticks for his side's third and final Group A game against Czechia.
But, as kick-off approaches Mexico head coach Vasco Aguirre is adamant that he will not "gift" any of his players a start.
"I've always said, ever since I came back, that I wasn't going to gift anything away, that the 26 players are here on their own merits," Aguirre told the media in his pre-match press conference.
"We lost Marcel (Ruiz), Luis Ángel (Malagón), and (Rodrigo) Huescas to injury. Those players that are in the best form come and play for the national team."
Currently donning the gloves for Mexico is CD Guadalajara's Raul Rangel. The 26-year-old made his international debut in 2024, winning 16 caps in total for his country and was included in squads for the CONCACAF Nations League Finals and CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Rangel has kept two clean sheets in two World Cup matches so far but the clamour for Ochoa to start Mexico's final group game only grows louder with each passing day.
Multiple current Mexico players have backed a decision for Ochoa to play against Czechia.
"We would be proud, to be honest. Personally, I've known 'Memo' [Ochoa] for quite some time, and he's a great person, he's a great player," said attacking midfielder Orbelin Pineda.
"We know the leadership he shows on and off the field, and I think all 26 of us are available and will do our best. And if Memo gets the chance, we know he'll do well."
Winger Alexis Vega was also in agreement regarding an Ochoa start.
"Obviously, it would be extraordinary. Something really cool for 'Memo.' For me, he's a legend of the Mexican national team," Vega stated. "I think he's a player who has always been ready to play for the national team. In the end, [head coach] 'Vasco' will make the decision. I think the 26 of us here are ready if we get the opportunity."
