Liguilla Playoff Preview: Key Matchups and Players to Watch

In a thrilling race for the final two playoff spots, Tijuana, Juárez, Pachuca, and Pumas competed fiercely, with Juárez ultimately securing its first-ever Liguilla berth by defeating Pachuca. Despite finishing eighth in the standings, this victory has sparked discussions about the Play-In format, which may lead to more fatigue than competitive equilibrium. This season marks the last time this format will be used, as the league plans to revert to a traditional top-eight qualification system for the Clausura 2026.

The schedule for the quarterfinals is set to commence on Wednesday, November 26, featuring matchups such as FC Juárez vs. Toluca, Rayados vs. América, and Tijuana vs. Tigres. The first leg will conclude with Chivas facing Cruz Azul on Thursday, November 27. The return fixtures will take place on Saturday, November 29, before Cruz Azul and Chivas finalize the round on Sunday, November 30.

Juárez’s qualification was marked by a dramatic 2-1 victory over Pachuca, yet they now face the tournament’s strongest contender, Toluca. Entering the Liguilla as reigning champions and leaders of the table, Toluca is favored to advance. The previous encounters between these clubs in knockout stages have been limited, with their only past meeting in the Repechaje going to Toluca, and their latest league clash resulting in a 2-0 win for Toluca at Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez, thanks to goals from Paulinho and Juan Domínguez.

**Toluca – Key to Success**
While a lengthy break of 18 days since their last match may pose a challenge to their rhythm, Antonio Mohamed’s squad has demonstrated formidable strength throughout the season. Over two legs, they remain significant favorites.

**Player to Watch: Paulinho**
The Portuguese striker has claimed the Liga MX Golden Boot for three consecutive seasons and has formed a lethal partnership with Alexis Vega.

**FC Juárez – Key to Success**
As underdogs, Juárez must contain the threats posed by Paulinho and Vega at the Nemesio Díez, a task that few teams have accomplished successfully.

**Player to Watch: Óscar Estupiñán**
With eight goals in 13 matches, Estupiñán stands as Juárez’s primary scoring threat and will need to shine in this critical series.

**GOAL’s Pick:** Toluca to advance comfortably.

In Liguilla history, Tigres and Tijuana have faced off only once, with Tigres emerging victorious. Their most recent regular-season encounter also ended with a 2-0 win for Tigres, featuring goals from Gignac and Correa.

**Tigres – Key to Success**
Under Guido Pizarro’s leadership, Tigres boasts the league’s best away record and a solid defense, having conceded just 16 goals. Maintaining these standards will be crucial for their advancement.

**Player to Watch: Ángel Correa**
The World Cup winner has seamlessly integrated into the team and is vital to Tigres’ attacking strategy alongside Brunetta, Lainez, and Gorriarán.

**Xolos – Key to Success**
Under Sebastián Abreu, Xolos showed promise during the Play-In but face a daunting task against one of Liga MX’s toughest opponents. They must capitalize on home advantage in the first leg to stay competitive.

**Player to Watch: Gilberto Mora**
The 17-year-old displayed confidence in his recent performance by converting a Panenka against Juárez, but the team needs collective support to pull off an upset.

**GOAL’s Pick:** Tigres to move on.

Cruz Azul and Chivas have a storied Liguilla history, with Guadalajara winning two out of three series. Their latest encounter was a 2-1 victory for Cruz Azul at Estadio Akron.

**Cruz Azul – Key to Success**
Nicolás Larcamón’s team finished third and has transformed Estadio Olímpico Universitario into a stronghold. Maintaining defensive consistency will be key as they enter as favorites.

**Player to Watch: Gabriel Fernández**
Retained unexpectedly, Fernández has contributed seven goals during the tournament, proving his worth in the lineup.

**Chivas – Key to Success**
Gabriel Milito’s team ended the season on a high with a three-match winning streak but has struggled offensively. They will rely on Armando González to maintain his breakout form.

**Player to Watch: Armando González**
With 13 goals, González shared the Golden Boot and is crucial to Chivas’ chances in this series.

**GOAL’s Pick:** Cruz Azul to prevail in a closely contested series.

In their eighth Liguilla meeting, América and Monterrey are set to clash, with Rayados having won four of their previous encounters, including the only prior quarterfinal matchup in Apertura 2009. Their regular-season match ended in a 2-2 draw at Estadio BBVA.

**Club América – Key to Success**
André Jardine’s side has shown strength but also inconsistency. Setting a positive tone in the first leg in Monterrey will be critical before returning home.

**Player to Watch: Allan Saint-Maximin**
As the marquee signing this season, Maximin is expected to step up in the knockout phase.

**Monterrey – Key to Success**
Domenec Torrent’s team boasts considerable talent but has faltered defensively by conceding 29 goals. With Sergio Ramos anchoring the defense, stability and composure are paramount.

**Player to Watch: Sergio Ramos**
His leadership and experience will be vital for Monterrey as they navigate this crucial matchup.

**GOAL’s Pick:** América to advance, setting the stage for a rematch against Toluca in the finals.