Memo’s moment: Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa’s emotional World Cup farewell leaves lasting legacy for Mexico fans

When Guillermo Ochoa stepped onto the pitch in the 78th minute of Mexico’s match with Czechia on Wednesday night, the stadium let out a roar that seemed to reverberate across the country and beyond.

When Guillermo Ochoa stepped onto the pitch in the 78th minute of Mexico’s match with Czechia on Wednesday night, the stadium let out a roar that seemed to reverberate across the country and beyond.

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Clad in a purple jersey and shorts, a misty-eyed Ochoa made the sign of the cross and high-fived a handful of teammates. Edson Álvarez gave him the captain’s armband and then “Memo,” as the legendary goalkeeper is affectionately nicknamed, jogged over to the goal in Estadio Azteca, his signature curls bouncing with him.

Ochoa’s jersey was branded with a commemorative patch marking his sixth World Cup, an exclusive club with just two other members: Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. He had already indicated he’d retire after this one.