Mexico starting lineup: Projected XI for El Tri vs. South Africa

MEXICO CITY — Javier Aguirre will go to sleep Wednesday night certain of the starting 11 he will name for Mexico 's World Cup opener against South Africa .

Asked about his lineup in the pre-match news conference, he assured reporters that he has it built out but wasn't going to give any hints to reporters or to the opponent, the same team Mexico faced in the 2010 World Cup opener.

His players don't know either. "I haven’t spoken with them about the starting XI," Aguirre said. "The 26 players are very hopeful, they all know they could play at any time and I have no doubt they’ll do well.

We always, however, can take a guess. Here is USA TODAY Sports' projection of how Mexico will line up Thursday in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup:

While veteran shot-stopper Guillermo Ochoa may make an appearance in this tournament, the opening game is likely to go to the player who has been Mexico's No. 1 for some time.

Defense: Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes , Johan Vasquez , Jesus Gallardo

This unit seems set, with the center-back pairing of Montes and Vasquez in great form, not only defending well in Mexico's preparation matches but also scoring goals on set plays. Right back is a question mark for the team, but the job is Sanchez's to lose.

The questions begin here, where many eyes will be on whether or not teenage sensation Gilberto Mora starts the opening match. Another young player, 22-year-old Illinois native Brian Gutierrez, is fighting for the same spot and may get the nod after a great day against Serbia last week. Do-it-all Fidalgo can provide a lot.