Continuing our recommendation list of games to watch as we did last weekend, we bring you our top three picks.
America vs. Tigres
Starting off this weekend’s action is America returning after an extended break due to them playing the 2019 Apertura final a few weeks ago. It will be interesting to see who they choose to play in the initial starting 11 in their first game back in Liga MX. Guido Rodriguez is officially gone, the former Concacaf 2019 Player of the Year was welcomed in Sevilla earlier this week by his new team Real Betis C.F. Not only did Guido leave, but Columbian Winger Renato Ibarra recently picked up an injury and will be out for an extended period of time also.
America feeling the losses of both players have brought in a few players one from Villareal In Argentine Leonardo Suarez to help the midfield due to Guido leaving. As well as defenders Luis Fuentes from Pumas and Left-Wing Back Alonso Escoboza from Queretaro. Tigres will play in their second game and can do nothing but help. In their first game against Atletico San Luis, they tied 0-0, a lackluster affair, but one thing we know is that talent-wise Tigres didn’t play up to their level they can play at. It is the beginning of the season, and fitness is a major key. Tigres should bounce back and have a good game against an America that Miguel Herrera probably has lit a fire under to start the season.
Winner: America
Santos vs. Leon
Santos was disappointing last game, being beaten by a resurging Xolos team 2-1. Their offense being driven by Brian Lozano and Julio Furch had few chances far and between. The only goal was scored on a free kick by their new French player Dorla. They look to get their offense started as they had it firing all last season (Still holding out hope Julio Furch plays for the Mexican National Team one day).
Leon looked impressive winning 3-1 against Queretaro. The loss of J.J Macias has to hurt them, but they look to be doing just fine without him. Granted it is Queretaro, but this so the same team almost that led the league a few weeks last tournament. Leon’s Angel Mena is due for another breakout tournament and getting the likes of Uruguayan Forward Nicolas Sosa doesn’t hurt either.
Winner: Santos
Chivas vs. Pachuca
The matchup of the week on any other day would have been America vs. Tigres, unfortunately, Victor Pocho Guzman’s failed drug test has overshadowed a lot of early headlines this season. An up to speed on the article is available here.
J.J Macias and Alexis Vega look to score once again for Chivas against Pachuca. Chivas played very selfishly the first week and with good reason due to starting positions competition starting. That was against a Juarez F.C team though, and against a bigger team, the same state of mind can hurt them. Meanwhile, Pachuca didn’t have the best time last week losing 2-1 against Pumas. Limited offensively and their only goal coming from a Franco Jara penalty. Since losing attacking midfielder Victor Pocho Guzman they have lost a huge offensive weapon and look to find a rhythm without him.
Winner: Chivas
All of this aside. Chivas’ biggest signing of this past offseason is now null and void. The attention now turns to both teams as they look for a win in this week 2 matchup and what was once a homecoming for a player in Victor Guzman, turns into a game displaying the ugliest side of Liga MX.