'Proud to have chosen Mexico' - Former USMNT one-cap player Richard Ledezma shares El Tri dream after scoring vs. Iceland

Getty Images Sport Alejandro OrellanaFeb 27, 2026 04:30+06:00 'Proud to have chosen Mexico' - Former USMNT one-cap player Richard Ledezma shares El Tri dream after scoring vs. Iceland Mexican-American defender Richard Ledezma revealed it was a personal dream of his to represent Mexico after scoring his first international goal for the national team in a 4-0 exhibition win over Iceland. Despite previously receiving a cap from the USMNT, the 25-year-old was quick to point out his Mexico pride after recently completing a one-time switch. Getty Images Sport Aims to play World Cup with Mexico Ledezma has emerged as one of the top performers in his position in Liga MX and believes his experience in the Netherlands with PSV Eindhoven, including appearances in the UEFA Champions League, strengthens his case for a starting role with the Mexican National Team. “I think I can compete for a starting spot because I played in Holland with PSV and I did well,” Ledezma said. “I played in the Champions League and many matches there. I believe I have the experience to do it.” Advertisement AFP 'It was my decision, my effort' The 24-year-old emphasized the emotional significance of choosing Mexico at the international level. “For me, it’s an honor to represent Mexico. It was my decision, my effort, and today it showed with the goal,” he said. “I’m very happy and proud to have chosen Mexico.” Ledezma will now wait for the final World Cup roster announcement, focusing on maintaining his form with Chivas while hoping to earn a place in the squad. “It’s about confidence right now. I have to keep doing things well at Chivas, and we’ll see....Now, we wait for the final list.” Getty Images Sport Chivas players shine with El Tri Mexico delivered a dominant performance overall. In addition to Ledezma’s strike, Chivas teammates Armando González and Brian Gutiérrez also found the net, while Jesús Gallardo rounded out the scoring in the four-goal win. ENJOYED THIS STORY? Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting AFP Former MLS talents, now Liga MX stars Ledezma and Gutiérrez, both with past ties to the USMNT and experience in MLS, have made an immediate impact with the Mexican national team since completing their one-time switch. Both players are now pushing to earn a spot on the final 26-man roster for the upcoming World Cup.