Mexico Draws Belgium in Encouraging World Cup Tune-Up

El Tri delivers strong performance against top-ranked European opponent ahead of 2026 World Cup

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:20am

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The Mexico national team put forth a surprisingly strong effort against Belgium, drawing 1-1 in their final tune-up match before the 2026 World Cup. Mexico dominated the first half, taking a 1-0 lead on a goal by Jorge Sánchez, but Belgium equalized early in the second half. Though Belgium had more possession and shots in the end, Mexico never looked in danger of losing the match.

Why it matters

This performance against a top-10 ranked opponent provides an encouraging sign for Mexico ahead of the World Cup, after the team struggled in a draw against Portugal just days earlier. Mexico's fluid midfield play and defensive solidity suggest Javier Aguirre may have found the right formula to compete with the world's best teams.

The details

Mexico was the dominant side in the first half, limiting Belgium to just one shot and overwhelming the midfield with quick passing combinations. An opportunistic finish by Jorge Sánchez put Mexico ahead at the break. But Belgium equalized immediately after halftime through a stunning strike by Dodi Lukébakio. The game became more chaotic in the second half with a combined 16 substitutions, but Mexico held firm to earn the draw.

  • Mexico took a 1-0 lead in the 45th minute on Jorge Sánchez's goal.
  • Belgium equalized in the 47th minute through Dodi Lukébakio's strike.

The players

Jorge Sánchez

A 24-year-old defender who scored the opening goal for Mexico.

Brian Gutiérrez

A 21-year-old midfielder who was Mexico's best player, orchestrating the team's fluid attack.

Javier Aguirre

The head coach of the Mexico national team, who has guided the team to an encouraging performance against a top opponent ahead of the World Cup.

Dodi Lukébakio

A 24-year-old forward who scored the equalizing goal for Belgium with a stunning strike.

Raúl Jiménez

Mexico's veteran striker, who was heavily involved in the team's attacking play despite not registering a shot on goal.

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What they’re saying

“We must be proud of how we played against such a strong opponent. This is the kind of performance that will give us confidence heading into the World Cup.”

— Javier Aguirre, Head Coach, Mexico National Team

“Mexico showed a lot of energy and creativity in the first half. They really put us under pressure and made it difficult for us to get into the game.”

— Axel Witsel, Midfielder, Belgium National Team

What’s next

Mexico will announce its preliminary 26-man World Cup roster on May 15th, with the final squad to be confirmed by June 1st.

The takeaway

Mexico's strong performance against Belgium suggests Javier Aguirre has found the right formula to make El Tri competitive against the world's top teams at the 2026 World Cup. The team's fluid midfield play and defensive solidity provide a promising foundation, though questions remain about their finishing ability up front.