CONCACAF Teams Must Raise Level Before 2026 World Cup, Says Ochoa


(MENAFN- The Peninsula) #qatar 2022 Reuters

Doha: Players in the CONCACAF region must gain valuable experience in Europe and national teams need meaningful competition to raise their game before the 2026 World Cup hosted by Mexico, United States and Canada, Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa said.

With all three nations set to compete in the tournament as co-hosts, Ochoa called for an action plan that includes teams in the region getting more opportunities to compete in different continental competitions.

'I hope we can get to go to the Asian Cup, Copa America, not just play friendlies in the United States. That's not going to benefit us,' Ochoa told ESPN.

'There are things to build and add, there are talented people who have to push and go to Europe.'

Read Also
  • mexico beat saudi arabia but out of last 16
  • saudi eye last 16; mexico goalmouth

The confederations of Asia, Africa, South America and Europe had at least two teams in the last 16 of the ongoing World Cup in Qatar, while CONCACAF had only one -- the United States -- who were eliminated by the Netherlands.

Ochoa's views were echoed by Paris St Germain goalkeeper Keylor Navas of Costa Rica, who went on to stress players had to compete in major European leagues at a young age.

'Hopefully all the youngsters can compete at a high level every Sunday and not just in a World Cup,' Navas said.

MENAFN05122022000063011010ID1105269917


Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.