| Keyword | Description |
|---|---|
| World Cup | A global soccer tournament held every four years. |
| El Tri | Nickname for the Mexican national soccer team. |
| Quarterfinal | A round in a tournament where eight teams compete. |
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is starting soon, and Mexico will be one of the host countries. Mexico has played in 17 World Cups since the first one in 1930. Although Mexico has never won the World Cup, it has played many matches. Out of 60 matches, Mexico won 17, lost 28, and tied 15. The Mexican team is called “El Tri.” Two of their best goal scorers are Luis Hernández and Javier Hernández, each scoring four goals in World Cups.
Mexico’s most significant World Cup win was against El Salvador in 1970, with a score of 4-0. However, they also faced a tough loss against West Germany in 1978, losing 6-0. Rafael Márquez holds the record for the most World Cup matches played for Mexico, with 19 games. Mexico has a “fifth game curse” because it rarely plays more than four games in a tournament. However, this year might be different. With 48 teams participating, Mexico has a better chance of reaching the fifth game.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| World | Mundo |
| Goal | Gol |
| Match | Partido |
Time to discuss
- Why do you think Mexico has never won the World Cup?
- What strategies could help Mexico win more matches?
- How might hosting the World Cup affect Mexico’s performance?
Let’s Write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph
- Who are Mexico’s top World Cup goal scorers and what are their achievements?
- Explain Mexico’s “fifth game curse” and how it might change in 2026.
