Two matchdays remain in the Apertura portion of the Liga MX season, with the title and final playoff spots still undecided. Club America lead Chivas Guadalajara and Cruz Azul only on goal difference, while Atlas sit two points back as a surprise contender.
Title Race Tightens
Club America possess the league's best attack, spearheaded by Henry Martin returning to form, but a tricky matchup against Pumas could cost them points. The leaders have lost only twice all season but are winless in their last three, including a defeat to Pachuca, who are led by the ageless top scorer Salomon Rondon.
Playoff Picture Wide Open
At the other end of the table, the final four playoff places are wide open. Teams currently fifth through 11th can still overtake each other, and only four clubs have been mathematically eliminated. Puebla are effectively out if any team on 22 points earns a point, yet their theoretical chance in 14th place underscores the season's competitiveness.
Monterrey's Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread
A potential shock looms with Monterrey, who have not missed the playoffs since 2016, currently outside the qualification zone. Despite being the third-highest spenders behind Atlas and Club America, Matias Almeyda's side have been inconsistent, capable of winning 4-2 or losing by the same margin. The squad boasts three of the top 15 scorers, but time is running out to turn form around.
Upcoming Fixtures
Upcoming fixtures (all times Eastern): Friday, Nov. 6: Necaxa vs. Club Tijuana, 8 p.m.; Atlético San Luis vs. Juárez, 8 p.m.; Atalante vs. Santos Laguna, 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7: Atlas vs. Pachuca, 6 p.m.; Tigres UNAL vs. Cruz Azul, 8 p.m.; Toluca vs. Monterrey, 8 p.m.; Pumas vs. Club América, 10:10 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8: Querétaro vs. Puebla, 7 p.m.; Club León vs. Chivas Guadalajara, 9:10 p.m. The Toluca vs. Monterrey match carries odds of Toluca -170, Draw +340, Monterrey +360.
