Guadalajara Chivas fell on penalties to Los Angeles FC in the first matchday of the Leagues Cup 2026, but Efraín Álvarez took home a special keepsake: Son Heung-min’s jersey. The match ended 1-1 in regulation, but LAFC won 5-4 in the shootout. League standing: 12th in Liga MX, 4 pts, 1W-1D-1L from 3 games, recent form DWL.
What happened in the match?
The Chivas midfielder didn’t hide his excitement after securing the South Korean star’s shirt. “I asked him, and thank God he gave it to me,” Álvarez said in the mixed zone while displaying the prized item. The Rebaño Sagrado, coming off a 1-1 draw with Puebla on August 1, now faces an uphill battle to advance.
Why does the jersey swap matter?
Beyond the loss, Álvarez’s gesture highlights the mutual respect between Liga MX and MLS players. The image of Chivas’ No. 10 holding Son’s jersey went viral, underscoring the symbolic value of these clashes. Goals this season: 2 scored, 3 conceded (-1 goal difference).
What’s next for Guadalajara Chivas?
Under Victor Manuel Vucetich, the team must bounce back quickly. Their next Liga MX fixture is away to Santos Laguna on August 17, currently 17th in the table. Title race: 3 points behind leaders Club America.
