Mexico National Team to Arrive in Quintana Roo to Prepare for Jamaica Match

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Mexico’s national soccer team will arrive in Quintana Roo on Sunday, Nov. 8 to begin preparations for its next official match against Jamaica, Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa announced, calling the visit historic for the state.

“We will welcome our national team with open arms. They have chosen our state to prepare for their next official match against Jamaica. It is a historic visit that fills us with pride,” she said.

Rafael Márquez leads the squad

Among the players expected in the Mexican Caribbean are Santiago Giménez, Johan Vásquez, Álvaro Fidalgo, Obed Vargas, Gilberto Mora, Roberto Alvarado, Alexis Vega, Julián Quiñones and Armando González, among other figures from the domestic and international game.

The delegation also features Rafael Márquez, the former national team defender and one of Mexican soccer’s best-known figures, who is listed as head coach. Lezama said his international career is an example for new generations of athletes.

The full call-up is rounded out as follows:

• Goalkeepers: Raúl Rangel, Óscar García and Álex Padilla
• Defenders: Kevin Álvarez, Israel Reyes, César Montes, Jesús Gallardo, Mateo Chávez, Rodrigo Huescas, Diego Campillo and Jesús Orozco Chiquete
• Midfielders: Erik Lira, Luis Romo, Erick Sánchez, Andrés Montaño and Santiago Sandoval
• Forwards: Isaías Violante, Jesús Corona and Armando León

A push for sports tourism

The governor said the team’s decision to train in Quintana Roo reflects confidence in the state’s destinations, its sports infrastructure and its ability to host international-level teams. She also pointed to the region’s air connectivity and the hospitality of its residents.

“The Mexican Caribbean, the World’s Holiday Capital, is also consolidating its position as a top-tier international sports destination, thanks to our connectivity, our first-class facilities and, above all, the warmth and hospitality of our people,” she said.

Lezama promised a warm reception for the players, the coaching staff and the rest of the delegation, and voiced the support of Quintana Roo residents during the team’s stay.

“To our players, coaching staff and the entire Mexican delegation: welcome to Quintana Roo! This is your home and you have all our affection and support. From the Mexican Caribbean, let’s go, Mexico!” she said.