The 'last wall' that Hong Myung-bo's team must break... Mexican legend Guillermo Ochoa announces retirement after his sixth World Cup

*This content was translated by AI.

A legendary goalkeeper from Mexico, the opponent of Hong Myung-bo's South Korea in the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup, has announced his retirement. The protagonist is one of the world's top goalkeepers, Guillermo Ochoa (41, AEL Limassol).

British news agency Reuters reported on the 1st (Korea time) that "Ochoa, one of the most iconic goalkeepers in Mexican football history, will retire from active duty after this North American World Cup."

Earlier, Fabrizio Romano, a transfer market expert well-versed in football news, stated that "Ochoa will play in his sixth World Cup representing Mexico." Ochoa himself confirmed this by sharing Romano's post on his social media.

The "Mexican legend" Ochoa, who has appeared in 151 A-match games, also hinted directly at his retirement possibility in a recent interview with Mexican media TUDN, saying, "The North American World Cup could be the last of my career. It's a difficult thing, but it doesn't seem hard to say goodbye. There comes a moment when your body and mind feel like you've poured everything into it. At that point, you can leave without regrets."

Ochoa has been evaluated as a top-class goalkeeper not only in Mexico but also globally throughout his playing career. His performance at the World Cup was particularly outstanding. After making his debut on the dream stage at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, he participated in the World Cup five times: 2010 in South Africa, 2014 in Brazil, 2018 in Russia, and 2022 in Qatar.

The North American tournament to be held next month in the United States, Canada, and Mexico is expected to be Ochoa's sixth and final World Cup.

The media noted, "It is unclear whether Ochoa's immense experience will keep him as Mexico's starting goalkeeper or if the younger goalkeeper Raul Angel (Guadalajara) will take the starting spot," but added, "Regardless, Ochoa is expected to be one of the team's captains."

Host nation Mexico has been drawn into Group A along with South Korea, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, the Czech Republic, and South Africa. From the perspective of the South Korean national team, Ochoa could be the "last wall." If Ochoa starts as Mexico's goalkeeper again this time, South Korea must break through him and score to increase their chances of victory.

Meanwhile, Ochoa has also built a club career spanning 22 years. He has experienced Europe's top leagues in France, Spain, Belgium, Italy, and Portugal. Since last year, he has been playing for Limassol in the Cypriot league.

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*This content was translated by AI.