Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa became the oldest Mexican player to ever feature in a World Cup match when he was substituted on during Mexico's 3-0 victory against Czechia on Wednesday. The 40-year-old entered the game in the 78th minute at the Azteca Stadium to a standing ovation from the crowd.
Ochoa's appearance marked a historic feat, surpassing the previous record held by Cuauhtemoc Blanco, who was 37 when he played in the 2014 World Cup. This milestone adds to Ochoa's already remarkable World Cup journey, as he had previously equaled the record for most World Cup squads by being selected for his sixth consecutive tournament, joining Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. While he was part of squads in 2006 and 2010, he did not play in those tournaments.
During his brief cameo, Ochoa contributed to Mexico's final goal by initiating the move with a long ball that led to Alvaro Fidalgo's score. The veteran goalkeeper, who is retiring internationally after the current World Cup, expressed his emotions post-match, reflecting on his long career and connection to the Azteca Stadium, where he spent 15 seasons with club side Club America.
'What's going through my mind? Many years and many stories,' Ochoa said. 'My first game here, in that goal. Lifting trophies here with my club. Moments with the national team: qualifiers, World Cups. The affection of the people. I don't have the words to thank them and my team-mates, or the coach for letting me experience this final moment. It has taken a lot of perseverance and sacrifice, but with the help of my family, I did it. It was worth the effort.'
Mexico's manager, Javier Aguirre, lauded Ochoa, stating, 'It was Memo Ochoa's night. He deserves everything that's happening to him.' Aguirre added that it was a fitting tribute for a player who has represented Mexico in six World Cups and that he wanted the nation to 'enjoy the legend of Memo Ochoa.'