PHOENIX, Ariz. — Mexico’s first international window following the 2026 FIFA World Cup is beginning to take shape.
According to multiple reports, El Tri is expected to play four friendlies during the September-October FIFA international break, marking the beginning of a new era under recently appointed head coach Rafa Márquez.
While the Mexican Football Federation has yet to officially announce the schedule, the reported opponents would provide an early test for Márquez as he begins preparing the national team for the next World Cup cycle.
Four Matches Across the United States
If the reported schedule holds, Mexico will play four matches in 11 days, all on U.S. soil.
Reported Schedule
- Sept. 26: Colombia – Baltimore, Maryland
- Sept. 29: Peru – Red Bull Arena (Harrison, New Jersey)
- Oct. 3: United States – Phoenix, Arizona
- Oct. 6: Chile – Rose Bowl (Pasadena, California)
The proposed slate would give Mexico the opportunity to face a mix of South American opposition before renewing one of CONCACAF’s biggest rivalries against the United States in Arizona.
A New Chapter Begins
The September camp is expected to mark Rafa Márquez’s debut as Mexico’s senior national team manager.
The former Barcelona defender takes over after serving as Javier Aguirre’s assistant during the 2026 World Cup. Although Mexico’s tournament ended in the Round of 16 against England, Márquez was widely viewed as the natural successor thanks to his experience within the program and previous success coaching Barcelona Atlètic.
Now, he’ll have his first opportunity to begin shaping the next generation of El Tri.
Eyes on the Next Generation
One of the biggest storylines entering the international window will be the continued development of several young stars who emerged during the World Cup.
Teenage midfielder Gilberto Mora captured the attention of fans around the world after becoming the youngest Mexican player ever to appear in a FIFA World Cup. His creativity and confidence quickly made him one of the tournament’s breakout performers for El Tri.
Up front, Julián Quiñones finished as one of Mexico’s most dangerous attacking threats during the tournament and is expected to remain a key piece under Márquez alongside veteran striker Raúl Jiménez.
With several established veterans entering the later stages of their international careers, the upcoming friendlies could also provide opportunities for younger Liga MX and European-based players to earn valuable minutes.
Phoenix Set to Host Another International Classic
For Arizona soccer fans, the reported matchup against the United States could become one of the region’s marquee sporting events of the fall.
Mexico has consistently drawn massive crowds whenever it plays in the Valley, and a rivalry match against the USMNT would likely create another electric atmosphere if officially confirmed.
The match would also give supporters their first in-person look at Rafa Márquez’s vision for the future of El Tri.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
As of now, the Mexican Football Federation has not officially announced the September-October schedule.
If confirmed, the four-match tour will provide an important first glimpse into Mexico’s post-World Cup identity and the direction Márquez plans to take one of the region’s most storied national teams.
For El Tri, the road to 2030 begins this fall.
