Surprising Gilberto Mora news drops right before Mexico’s match against Czechia

Despite the 2026 FIFA World Cup being a truly exciting tournament, with thrilling games each day, there’s one change that was made for this edition that isn’t sitting well with fans. Head-to-head being the main tiebreaker over goal differential has rendered many teams eliminated from contention heading into the final matchday of the group stage.

Thankfully, on Wednesday, the first three groups will be finalized with all but one team (Haiti) still fighting for their right to survive in the tournament. Mexico is the only team playing on Wednesday that has already secured first place in the group. Despite Mexico not playing for anything but pride against Czechia, a lack of necessity to win affords manager Javier Aguirre the right to see other players in action.

There’s no player fans are more excited to watch than Gilberto Mora. The 17-year-old had a great season with Tijuana in Liga MX, and it’s only a matter of time before Europe comes calling. Mora has already played for Mexico in a major tournament, as part of the senior team at the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. He also made a substitute appearance in Mexico’s opening World Cup victory against South Africa.

Gilberto Mora expected to start for Mexico against Czechia

Against Czechia, fans will get to see much more of him. That’s because Mora is expected to start Mexico’s final group stage match from the get-go. If Mora does in fact start the game, he will become the youngest Mexican player ever to start a World Cup match.

As of right now, Mexico would be playing against Scotland in the Round of 32. While Mexico’s place won’t change regardless of the outcome against Czechia, their opponent likely will as the final group stage games wrap up.