Young Players Shine Amid Challenges in Liga MX Tournament

CIUDAD DE MÉXICO – A multitude of young players are making significant impacts during the ongoing Liga MX tournament, showcasing their skills despite facing numerous challenges. As teams navigate through injuries and repositioning, the youth from various clubs, including Chivas and Pumas, are emerging as key contributors.

Pablo Bennevendo, a rising star at Pumas, has stepped up as the team’s second captain, filling in admirably for Lisandro Magallán when he is unavailable. His strong leadership has been essential, and fans have responded positively to his performance. Bennevendo’s improvement as a right-back reflects his dedication and resilience, establishing himself firmly in the lineup over the past two tournaments.

Another impressive talent is 19-year-old goalkeeper Pablo Lara, who has shown great potential this season. Despite some mistakes attributed to his age and inexperience, his competition with veteran goalkeeper for a starting role has been notable. Lara is expected to return to the bench while his counterpart secures the starting position, yet he remains poised to represent Mexico in the upcoming Under-20 World Cup.

Ángel Rico, who debuted under coach Gustavo Lema, brings remarkable agility and ball control to the pitch, although his playing time remains limited. His speedy transitions and skillful ball handling indicate a bright future as he develops with the first team.

Jorge Ruvalcaba, returning from a European loan, has struggled to find his rhythm since rejoining Pumas, showing inconsistencies in his decision-making despite his skilled play. Similar challenges have been faced by Alfonso Monroy, who has seen fewer minutes, impacting his overall performance as injuries to teammates have forced him into action at critical moments.

Santiago López, another promising forward, has gained valuable minutes this season, driven by the need for offensive impact amid injuries to key players. As a member of Canada’s Under-20 national team, López is recognized for his ability to retain possession and finish effectively.

In Guadalajara, the defense has been anchored by goalkeeper Raúl Rangel, who has stood out as a key player for Chivas this tournament. Missing only one match due to national team duty, Rangel has kept the team competitive, albeit with limited clean sheets.

Defender Gilberto Sepúlveda has played every match thus far but faces challenges in organizing the defense effectively since the loss of teammate Jesús Orozco Chiquete. His partnerships have struggled, affecting the team’s ability to remain solid at the back.

Newcomer Luis Rey is making an impact in his first full season with Chivas, stepping in due to injuries among the squad. As he gains experience, Rey has played a significant role in maintaining defensive stability.

Mateo Chávez’s involvement has been limited due to concussion protocols, temporarily sidelining him from key matches. He has contributed significantly when able, leading the team in assists.

Veteran Rubén González has been a constant in the midfield, adapting to changes in coaching and lineups while proving to be a reliable presence on the pitch.

Fernando Beltrán, however, is experiencing a decrease in prominence this season following Luis Romo’s arrival, being relegated to bench duties in many instances.

Among new talents, Hugo Camberos stands out, marking himself as a key player for Chivas by scoring and assisting, solidifying his role among fellow forwards Alan Pulido and Roberto Alvarado.

Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández, returning to form, is enjoying his first full season with Chivas and has provided important contributions, scoring two goals while increasing his minutes on the field.

Teun Wilke has shown promise since securing his spot early in the season, yet he faces competition as the roster stabilizes with returning players.

Meanwhile, Armando González dealt with a muscle injury that limited his participation early on, leaving him with only limited minutes and few opportunities to score.