Pumas is preparing for two key matches in Guadalajara against Chivas and Atlas, aiming to break a negative streak that has become a true nightmare for the university team. The last victory of Pumas over Chivas as visitors dates back to 2018, when under David Patiño’s management they won at Estadio Akron, ending a 36-year winless streak in that venue. Since then, they have not been able to repeat the success, and now under Esteban Solari they aim to change that history.
Additionally, Pumas has not defeated Atlas since 2021, in a semifinal match marked by controversy over an unpenalized foul on Juan Ignacio Dinenno. This recent lack of victories in Guadalajara has raised concerns within the technical staff, especially considering that both Chivas and Atlas are deeply involved in a tight title race in the current Liga MX tournament.
For this double header, there is a possibility that César Huerta will not be available at least for the match against Chivas, although he could return for the game against Atlas, alongside Álvaro Angulo, who might also be ready for that duel. These uncertainties in the starting lineup add a risk factor to Solari’s strategy, which seeks to improve away performance as part of his sporting project.
Chivas arrives at this match in strong form, sitting second in the Liga MX table with 14 points after seven games, four wins, two draws, and one loss. Their recent form is positive, with four wins and one draw in the last five matches, including a commanding 0-3 victory over Atlético de San Luis on September 5, where goals came from Andrés Sánchez (own goal), Ricardo Marín, and Richard Ledezma. The team led by Fernando Gago maintains a +6 goal difference and is only two points behind leaders Club América.
Chivas’ next fixture will be precisely against Pumas at home on September 14, 2026, a match that will carry special significance given the recent history between both sides. Their last encounter ended in a 2-2 draw on April 6, 2026, a result that left mixed feelings but now serves as a reference for what could come. With Pumas trying to break their poor run and Chivas defending their top-position status, the game promises to be a key test for both projects.
These matches in Guadalajara represent not only a sporting challenge for Pumas but also an opportunity to affirm their growth under Solari. Breaking the negative streak at Estadio Akron and securing a win over Atlas would be important steps to consolidate their ambition of being competitive both at home and away, especially in a tournament phase where every point counts double in the race for the top spots.
