14h39 CEST
25/06/2026
Javier Aguirre is not "fully satisfied" despite seeing his Mexico side beat Czechia 3-0 to qualify for the knockout stages of World Cup 2026.
The co-hosts reached the last 32 in style in Mexico City, with Mateo Chavez, Julian Quinones, and Alvaro Fidalgo on target in the second half.
Mexico consequently top Group A with a 100 per cent record, and will next face a third-placed team from Group C, E, F, H or I in the round of 32.
But Aguirre, who also led Mexico at the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, did not enjoy everything he saw from his side against now eliminated Czechia.
"We haven't played well in the matches we've been winning, I am not fully satisfied," he said.
"When we have been playing well we lose continuity. My focus for tomorrow is to see if we are capable of maintaining 90 minutes in a nearly perfect match.
"I didn't like the first 20 minutes, but then we settled down, the team recovered, and that's where we showed the power of mental strength.
"Obviously, we always have a few things to work on, but I think we've improved in that area, that mentality of 'well, that's it, we've done our part'. This group has character,"
Historic win at México City Stadium!
— Mexican National Team (@miseleccionmxEN) June 25, 2026
/ victories. An unforgettable night with our people. SEE YOU IN THE NEXT ROUND OF THE WORLD CUP! #SomosMéxico #FWC26 #MD3 #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/amngNfpL9d
Czechia are officially out after taking just a solitary point in the pool stages, that coming against South Africa in their second game.
Head coach Miroslav Koubek cited travel fatigue among the reasons for the disappointing tournament, but admitted his team made "stupid mistakes" against Mexico.
Moreover, he insisted he would not away from his role despite their early exit.
"I have a contract," Koubek said. "I never give up any fight. That's not what I do and I will definitely fulfil my contract.
"Let me congratulate Mexico on today's win. Their performance was good. Nevertheless, I think we made it easy for Mexico, easier than it should have been.
"We had a big chance at the beginning but in the second half we made some stupid mistakes and Mexico was able to capitalise on our errors."