Mexico's Legends Stage Comeback Against Uruguay as Gilberto Mora Eyes Another Shot at Glory

Mexico's national squad welcomes Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay this Saturday evening as Javier Aguirre concentrates entirely on assembling his prospective 2026 World Cup squad.

El Tri received a harsh reality check with their 4–0 loss to Colombia in October, followed by managing just a tie against Ecuador on home soil—a outcome that stretched their winless streak to four matches following their triumph over the USMNT in the 2025 Gold Cup final.

Luckily for Mexico, crucial foundations Edson Álvarez and Raúl Jiménez have rejoined the squad after being absent from October's exhibition matches. These experienced players serve as leaders and two of the most impactful figures during the Aguirre period, with Jiménez accounting for nearly half of this year's goals scored.

The battle for both wing positions remains intense, particularly with regular starter Alexis Vega sidelined due to injury, Diego Lainez and Hirving Lozano should receive ample opportunities to make their mark. Additionally, all attention will focus on the now 17-year-old prodigy Gilberto Mora. The young talent has been exceptional in recent months, and a strong showing against Uruguay could virtually secure his spot at next summer's World Cup.

Here's how Mexico might line up against Uruguay this Saturday evening.

Mexico Predicted Lineup vs. Uruguay (4-3-3)

GK: Luis Ángel Malagón—Malagón has appeared far from assured in recent matches for Mexico and another uncertain performance will place him under intense scrutiny.

RB: Israel Reyes—With Rodrigo Huescas sidelined for a prolonged period, Reyes has an opportunity to secure the starting right-back position. His defensive capabilities enable Jesús Gallardo to be more attacking on the opposite side.

CB: César Montes—"El Cachorro" continues to be one of Aguirre's most reliable players and his aerial prowess has established him as an unquestioned starter in the defensive core.

CB: Johan Vásquez—Vásquez has been outstanding despite Genoa's terrible beginning to the Serie A campaign. After years of inconsistency struggles, he's now among Mexico's finest players.

LB: Jesús Gallardo—A reliable fixture on Mexico's left side. Gallardo will keep charging up and down the flank all the way to his third World Cup participation.

DM: Edson Álvarez—Mexico's skipper returns following an injury sustained against Japan during September's matches. He's appeared restricted with ball possession lately and while that's never been his forte, enhancement is essential or Mexico will keep struggling with build-up play.

CM: Marcel Ruiz—The Toluca midfielder has seen his performance decline somewhat in the year's latter half. He remains prominent in the midfield hierarchy, but a weak display against Uruguay might threaten his starting position.

CM: Gilberto Mora—Mexico's rising star returns after excelling in the U-20 World Cup. He'll feature with El Tri's senior squad for the first time since the Gold Cup final and will seek to bring some flair to the team he considers the 2026 World Cup frontrunner.

RW: Diego Lainez—Roberto Alvarado has returned to the roster but Lainez's outstanding Apertura 2025 campaign for Tigres should secure him a starting role against Uruguay. After being dismissed following a disappointing European stint, Lainez has a genuine opportunity to quiet his critics and make his World Cup debut next year.

ST: Raúl Jiménez—Mexico's most crucial and impactful player throughout the past year returns. With Jiménez spearheading the attack, El Tri's offensive capabilities reach another level.

LW: Hirving Lozano—With Vega unavailable, Lozano will have the chance to play in his favored left-wing position. It's an opportunity for the 2018 World Cup standout to demonstrate he can still excel on the international scene as he did earlier in his career.