Chivas and Santos Laguna Draw in Liga MX Clausura 2025 Opener

The Estadio Akron in Guadalajara hosted the opening match of the Liga MX Clausura 2025 season, where Chivas and Santos Laguna battled to a 0-0 draw. The game, marked by missed opportunities and strong defensive plays, set the tone for the new season with both teams showcasing revamped squads and fresh strategies.

Chivas, under the guidance of new Spanish coach Óscar García, dominated possession early on. The team’s new signings, including Miguel Tapias and Alan Pulido, were expected to bring a new dynamic to the squad. Santos Laguna, led by new coach Fernando ‘Tano’ Ortiz, relied on a more conservative approach, with key players like Cristian Dájome and Javier Abella stepping up defensively.

The first half saw Chivas create several scoring chances, but Santos’ goalkeeper Carlos Acevedo was up to the task, making crucial saves to keep the game scoreless. The most notable moment came in the 52nd minute when Chivas was awarded a penalty after Hugo Camberos was fouled in the box. Roberto ‘Piojo’ Alvarado stepped up to take the spot kick, but his effort was saved by Acevedo, who guessed correctly and dove to his right to deny the goal.

The missed penalty was a turning point in the match, as Chivas struggled to regain their momentum. Santos Laguna, buoyed by Acevedo’s heroics, grew in confidence but failed to capitalize on their own chances. The game ended in a stalemate, leaving both teams with a point to start the season.

‘It’s a tough result to take, but we showed character and fought hard,’ said Chivas coach Óscar García in a post-match interview. ‘We have a lot of work to do, but I’m confident in this group.’

Santos Laguna’s Fernando Ortiz praised his team’s resilience, particularly highlighting Acevedo’s performance. ‘Carlos was phenomenal today. He kept us in the game and gave us a chance to compete,’ Ortiz remarked.

Both teams will look to build on this result as the Liga MX Clausura 2025 season progresses, with Chivas aiming to improve their finishing and Santos Laguna seeking to find more attacking rhythm.