Mexico were back. Missing from the previous edition, they had last graced the World Cup in 1970. Under José Antonio Roca, they were ready to write the next chapter.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 7 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 6 | 5 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 12 | -10 | 0 |
It was a tournament to forget for Mexico, who left without a single victory to their name. Goals proved hard to come by, with just 2 in 3 matches, and their lack of firepower ultimately told.
Mexico found the group stage unforgiving, unable to pick up a single victory against their opponents. Their campaign featured a 1-3 defeat against Tunisia, a heavy 0-6 defeat to West Germany, and a 1-3 defeat against Poland. The World Cup dream ended earlier than hoped, with Mexico bowing out in the first round.
3lost
2scored12conceded
Lost all 3 matches conceded 12 goals in 3 matches.
Víctor Rangel led Mexico's attack with 1 goal at the 1978 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Ayala, both with 1.
The tactical mind behind Mexico's 1978 campaign. Winless under Roca leading Mexico at his first World Cup.
Mexico employed a traditional 4-2-4 formation, but its attacking style was hindered by defensive vulnerabilities. The team struggled to create scoring opportunities against more experienced opponents.
