Mexico Fails Again in October FIFA Window: 3 Key Takeaways from El Tri’s Performance

The Mexican national team faced two of CONMEBOL’s top sides during the October FIFA window — Colombia, who finished third in South American World Cup qualifying, and Ecuador, who secured second place. And just like in September’s window against South Korea and Japan, Mexico walked away winless.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, La Selección Mexicana continues to face stronger competition and cannot afford slip-ups like the 4–0 defeat to Colombia. The last time Mexico lost by such a margin was just a couple of years ago under Jaime Lozano against Uruguay. Unfortunately, recent matches against CONMEBOL opponents have shown that Mexico is struggling to compete — and this October window was no exception.

Here are three key takeaways from Mexico’s latest performances:

1. Vasco Sends a Message: No One’s Spot Is Safe

Following the humiliating 4–0 loss to Colombia, coach Javier “Vasco” Aguirre made it clear that changes were coming — and he delivered. Against Ecuador, he made 7–8 changes to the starting XI. Only Vasquez, Montes, and Lira retained their places.

Aguirre stated that if players don’t follow instructions, he’ll replace them with those who will. That mentality was evident against Ecuador, where the team showed a completely different attitude: grit, determination, intensity — “jugando con el cuchillo entre los dientes.” It was the kind of fight that was missing in the Colombia match.

From goalkeeper to striker, the changes worked. It sent a clear message: no player has a guaranteed spot. With the World Cup on the horizon, Vasco isn’t afraid to bench or even drop players who don’t perform.

2. No Raúl Jiménez, No Goals

Without Raúl Jiménez, El Tri lacked a real threat in front of goal. Against Ecuador, Mexico had a strong first half, creating five quality chances — but only finished one.

Raúl may not be a world-class striker, but he’s clinical and composed in front of goal. If he had been on the end of those five chances, you can bet at least two or three would have found the back of the net. His value isn’t just as a finisher — he’s also a creator. Raúl doesn’t just rely on the midfield; he becomes the creative hub, linking up play with intelligence and technique.

In the Colombia match, Santiago Giménez had a chance to stake his claim for the starting striker role but failed to impress. Meanwhile, Berterame showed promise against Ecuador, scoring and contributing well — though he also missed a few key chances. Still, the difference Raúl makes was clearly felt, and right now, El Tri remains heavily dependent on his presence up top.

3. Progress in Attack, but Creativity Still Lacking

Mexico showed promising signs in the first half against Ecuador, pressing high, recovering the ball in dangerous areas, and attacking with fluidity. But once Ecuador sat back and absorbed the pressure — just like Colombia did — Mexico hit a wall.

The issue? A lack of creative players who can operate in tight spaces and make something out of nothing.

Erick "Chiquito" Sánchez showed flashes of creativity and did a decent job probing Ecuador’s defense. However, he lacked that final decisive pass or finish that could have turned the game. A player like Gilberto Mora, if called up, might’ve been able to provide that cutting edge Mexico needed.

Final Thoughts

Despite the disappointing results, this October window offered valuable lessons for Javier Aguirre and his squad. Tactical adjustments, roster changes, and a clearer understanding of which players can rise to the occasion are now top priorities as Mexico prepares for the 2026 World Cup.

Whether this team can turn lessons into progress remains to be seen — but one thing is certain: the margin for error is shrinking fast.