Javier Aguirre Rules Out Using World Cup Lineup in Serbia Friendly

Mexico's national team will face Serbia in a final warm‑up match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening game. Head coach Javier Aguirre announced that the lineup for the Serbia friendly will differ from the squad that will debut at the World Cup.

The coaching staff wants to reduce player load and lower injury risk by testing an alternative formation. The statement came eight days before Mexico's inaugural match at the newly renamed Estadio Ciudad de México.

Aguirre emphasized that the priority is long‑term performance rather than a single preparatory fixture.