MEXICO CITY — Gilberto Mora etched his name into Mexican soccer history Wednesday night, becoming the youngest player to start a World Cup match for El Tri at just 17 years old.

The teenage midfielder took the field against the Czech Republic, showcasing the prodigious talent that has captivated fans and pundits since his early breakthroughs in domestic and international football. Mora's selection highlighted Mexico's willingness to embrace youth amid a competitive Group A campaign in the 2026 tournament.

Mora first appeared as a substitute in Mexico's opening 2-0 victory over South Africa on June 11, becoming the eighth 17-year-old to feature in this World Cup. Coach Javier Aguirre had managed the youngster's minutes carefully following a groin injury earlier in the year, but the teenager's impact in limited action earned him a starting role.

The Tijuana player's rapid ascent includes several age-related records. In August 2024, he became the youngest player to start and score in Mexico's top division at age 15. By January of the following year, he had debuted for the senior national team at 16.

Mora joins an elite group of teenage World Cup participants. Pelé famously debuted for Brazil at 17 in 1958, while Northern Ireland's Norman Whiteside remains the youngest overall at 17 years and 41 days in 1982. Mora is the first 17-year-old to see action since Nigerian players in 2002.

Mora's journey began in Tijuana's youth system,........

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