Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano apologizes for Mexico's World Cup elimination

Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano apologized to Mexican national team supporters after failing to qualify for the knockout stages of the 2022 World Cup, adding: “I didn't expect it but that's the way football is.”

El Tri entered the last match of the group stage with one point, after drawing 0-0 against Poland and losing 0-2 to Argentina. The team needed a 3-0 triumph over Saudi Arabia, or a desirable result between Poland and Argentina. 

But despite best efforts and a cathartic ending that saw El Tri score twice, with two more goals disallowed, Albiceleste’s 2-0 victory over Poland proved to be lethal. Argentina advanced as leaders of Group C, while the Polish edged out Mexico with the goal difference of one.  

"Thank (the fans) those who supported the team, an apology because it was something very hard, I didn't expect it but that's the way football is," he told TUDN after the game. “That wasn't enough for us, I think that the last two games we could have done more, that's football, I want to thank the fans, my family, and those who were with us, who supported us."

Mexico has qualified for the round-of-16 in their past seven World Cup appearances, adding to this year’s disappointment. The team last remained in the tournament’s group stage in 1978, losing against Poland, West Germany, and Tunisia.

El Tri will now look to reshape management and plan for the 2026 World Cup. Several changes have already been made, with Gerardo Martino officially out as manager and the search for a new leader underway. 

“I don't know [what happens in the national team], the leaders have to analyze, see the best for the national team, always trying to improve,” added Chucky Lozano. 

Mexico has already qualified for the upcoming edition of the World Cup, as the country co-hosts the tournament alongside Canada and the United States.