Gilberto Mora left out of Mexico's starting 11 for World Cup opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 6:18 PM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
Gilberto Mora, a 17-year-old midfielder, is not included in Mexico's starting lineup for their World Cup match against South Africa. Instead, Mexico's coach has opted for more experienced players like Raul Jimenez, Julian Quinones, and Roberto Alvarado in the opening match. While Mora's exclusion may disappoint fans, he is expected to have opportunities later in the tournament as player rotation could occur due to the summer heat. Mora plays for Tijuana in Liga MX and is considered a talented rising star.
- •Gilberto Mora excluded from Mexico's opening match against South Africa.
- •Mexico opts for experienced players in the starting lineup.
- •Mora likely to feature off the bench later in the tournament.
- •Team expected to rotate players as the tournament progresses.
- •Mora plays for Tijuana in Liga MX.
- 6:18 PMYahoo Sports — Why 17-year old wunderkind Gilberto Mora isn't starting for Mexico at World Cup
"The special talent has been left out of Mexico's initial starting 11.
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