“Passion Never Learned To Count Time”: Ochoa Set For Historic 6th World Cup vs Bafana
Mexico’s legendary goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa, is ready to plot the downfall of Bafana Bafana when the two sides meet in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The World Cup opener, now just 30 days away, will kick off on 11 June at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City in front of a capacity crowd of 81,070.
The clash between Bafana Bafana and Mexico in Group A will be a repeat of the nations’ meeting at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, when they played to a 1-1 draw at FNB Stadium.
Interestingly, Ochoa was on the bench for that match, with Oscar Pérez in goal when he was beaten by Siphiwe Tshabalala’s iconic strike.
In addition, Javier Aguirre, now 67, was Mexico’s coach at the 2010 World Cup and will once again lead his country in June, with the tournament also being co-hosted by the United States and Canada.
The 2026 tournament will mark Ochoa’s sixth World Cup with Mexico. He first appeared at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, where Mexico lost to Argentina in the round of 16 after extra time.
If Ochoa plays, he will become the first player in history to be squad-named for six World Cups (2006–2026), surpassing legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in longevity. However, the latter superstars, barring injuries, will be in the 2026 World Cup.
“Putting this shirt back on was never routine … it was a privilege,” said Ochoa, who has earned 152 caps for Mexico.
Ochoa made his debut for his country against Hungary in 2005.
“Today marks the start of my final training camp. But this time, I see it differently — with a fuller heart, more scars, more memories … and the same excitement as that kid who once dreamed of defending this badge.
“I’ve lived through impossible nights, endless stadiums, anthems that still give me chills, and moments that changed my life forever.”
Interestingly, former Bafana Bafana attacker Luther Singh is Ochoa’s teammate at AEL Limassol in the Cyprus league.
“And yet … every time Mexico calls, something inside me starts anew. Maybe football measures the years, but passion never learned to count time. I’m home. I’m with my national team,” Ochoa continued.
“And as long as there’s a chance to fight for this country … my soul will be there first. Onward to WC 2026.”
Meanwhile, the Estadio Azteca is the first stadium to ever host three World Cup opening matches (1970, 1986, 2026)
