Landon Donovan Claims Mexico National Team “Not Very Good” Ahead of Crucial World Cup Year

Former US soccer star Landon Donovan has reignited a classic rivalry. He made sharp comments about the Mexico national team’s current form. Donovan stated they are “not very good” right now.

His analysis comes from a recent interview with Fox Soccer. It follows a worrying winless streak for Mexico to end 2025. The timing is critical with the 2026 World Cup approaching.

USMNT Legend Points to Mexico’s “Bad Moment” and Fan Tension

Donovan knows this opponent better than most. He scored six career goals against El Tri. That is a record in the heated North American rivalry.

Now, he sees a team in clear trouble. “Mexico right now, though, are in a bad moment,” Donovan said. “They’re in a really bad moment.”

He pointed to their recent results as proof. Mexico ended 2025 without a win in six straight matches. This poor form echoes their group-stage exit from the last World Cup.

Another former US player, Stuart Holden, agreed with the assessment. He added that hosting the 2026 tournament could backfire on Mexico. Home pressure might work against the struggling squad.

Internal Pressure and Fan Backlash Compound On-Field Issues

The problems may extend beyond the pitch. Relations between the team and its passionate fans are strained. Players were recently booed off the field after a 0-0 draw with Uruguay.

Striker Raúl Jiménez publicly criticized Mexican supporters after that match. According to reports, this disconnect has been growing for years. It creates a toxic atmosphere for a team needing confidence.

Coach Javier Aguirre has a major task ahead. He must fix tactical issues and mend the broken fan relationship. The clock is ticking with just months until the World Cup kicks off.

Donovan’s blunt critique highlights the intense pressure on the Mexico national team. Their path to 2026 World Cup success appears rockier than ever.

Info at your fingertips

Why did Landon Donovan criticize Mexico?

He criticized their recent performances on Fox Soccer. Donovan cited a six-game winless streak and a general lack of quality. He believes they are in a “really bad moment.”

What is Mexico’s recent form?

Mexico failed to win its last six matches of 2025. This includes a 0-0 draw with Uruguay where fans booed the team. Their form has been a major concern for over a year.

How are Mexican fans reacting?

The relationship is reportedly very strained. Fans have booed the team recently, and players have fired back with criticism. This creates a high-pressure environment for the squad.

Could hosting the World Cup hurt Mexico?

Analyst Stuart Holden suggested it might. He said if games start poorly, the home crowd could quickly turn on the team. That immense pressure could become a disadvantage.

What was Donovan’s history against Mexico?

He is the all-time top scorer in the USA-Mexico rivalry. Donovan scored six goals against El Tri during his playing career. His perspective comes from direct, repeated experience.