Vicente Fernández Anthem Fuels Mexico’s U-20 World Cup Bid in Chile
SANTIAGO, Chile - Beyond tactical readiness and rigorous training, the Mexican Under-20 national team is drawing inspiration from an unlikely source as they pursue qualification at the FIFA U-20 World Cup: the iconic ranchera “El Rey” by Vicente Fernández. the song, a cornerstone of Mexican culture, has become an unofficial anthem for the squad, embodying their ambition to reclaim international prestige in youth football.
Mexico, historically a powerhouse in youth competitions, seeks to restore its former glory at the tournament in Chile.After battling to draws against Brazil and Spain, the team faces a crucial showdown against morocco with their tournament fate hanging in the balance. Players cite “El Rey” as a unifying force, reinforcing a collective mindset focused on achieving their ultimate goal: becoming world champions.
“We are not willing to leave our dream, we are not going to give it up at all. It will be the most elaborate game, we will go out with the mentality of winning,” declared midfielder Alexéi Domínguez hours before the pivotal match against Morocco. The team’s spirit is visibly buoyed by the song’s message of resilience and unwavering determination.
The parallels between the song’s themes and the team’s aspirations are not lost on the players. “I think this group is that of death, we are the best in the world we are here,” Domínguez asserted, echoing the song’s confident and defiant tone.A victory against Morocco secures automatic qualification to the next round, while a draw or defeat necessitates a complex calculation of other results.
The choice of “El Rey” reflects a deliberate effort to connect with Mexican identity and instill a sense of national pride within the squad. Coach Eduardo Arce has encouraged the team to embrace the song’s powerful message, viewing it as a catalyst for achieving their ambitions.
“Let’s see what else is adding to the song list,” added Domínguez, hinting at the song’s growing influence within the team’s dynamic. Mexico needs to overcome Morocco, to avoid “crying and crying”, and continuing with the idea of being the ‘king’, in the U20 World Cup.
