,[object Object], will visit Tijuana for the sixth matchday of the ,[object Object], tournament with three significant absences. The team is coming off a disappointing run, having garnered only three points from twelve available, with one victory and three losses. This poor form has put pressure on the squad and coach ,[object Object], to improve results quickly. The match against ,[object Object], at Estadio Caliente is crucial for ,Chivas, to start turning their campaign around and collect much-needed points.
Among the three absences for ,Chivas, are two players sidelined due to injuries. Forward Alan Pulido is out due to a muscle tear, while defender José Castillo has a calf strain that will prevent him from playing. Notably, Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández was also excluded from the squad yet again, as he continues to recover from a left calf injury. Additionally, midfielder Omar Govea remains unavailable while healing from a hamstring injury. In light of these absences, the coaching staff called up Teun Wilke, a player who has impressed fans with his performances in the Tapatío squad and in limited first division appearances.
The team lineup sees hopes placed on some key and emerging players. Armando ‘Hormiga’ González is expected to start, bringing his promising form to the front line. Defender Miguel Tapias might take over for Castillo, as he has recently returned from injury and has been important in preseason games. Other notable inclusions in the squad ahead of the Tijuana match include Raúl Rangel as goalkeeper, Luis Romo, Erick Gutiérrez, Roberto Alvarado, and young talents Santiago Sandoval and Efraín Álvarez, who will be vital in fighting for a positive result against the home-side Xolos.
This match has broader implications as ,Chivas, tries to recover from a series of defeats and boos from their own fans who have expressed disappointment in the team’s inconsistent performances. The game against Tijuana represents an opportunity for ,Chivas, to stop the negative spiral, with fans eager to see an improved display and results. Despite the struggles, players like Roberto Alvarado have consistently shown quality and could be the difference-makers in such a challenging fixture. With the pressure mounting, ,Chivas, aims to bounce back and reignite their quest to return to playoff contention in Liga MX this season.