FIn recent years, Club América has been one of the most solid teams in Mexican football, both in terms of the quality of their players and the way they play.
That image is starting to change, at least with this Clausura 2026.
After 13 matches, the United States is in 6th place with 18 points, and they have not been able to maintain the same results in this tournament. While the 1-1 draw against Santos left mixed feelings, the 1-0 defeat against Pumas was decided in the final minute and reflected a recurring problem: competing but not finishing the game.
Even in the 2-0 victory against Mazatlán, the team showed specific moments rather than a consistent version throughout the match
And while that’s happening, the story begins to take a different shape.
Chivas has transformed from a team that was always looking but never found, to a team that today turns its intentions into results.
The team, which has already qualified for the Liguilla with 31 points, is not only leading the tournament, but gaining momentum with each match. The 5-0 victory against León showed one of the most convincing performances, the 3-2 victory against Monterrey confirmed the visitors’ ability to cope with tough scenarios, and the victory against Atlas strengthened the connection with the fans.
Even in games where the outcome was decided in the final minutes, such as the 2-2 draw against Pumas, the team showed a commitment they have not always achieved.
From there, changes begin to appear.
Players like Armando “Hormiga” Gonzalez today reflect this moment of a team that not only proposes, but maintains what has been built. On the other hand, names like Rafael Veiga contributed but did not change America’s overall dynamic.
Contrast isn’t just on the court
While Chivas lives in an atmosphere of confidence and exhilaration, the Americans are starting to have doubts in a tournament where the margins are no longer minimal.
And when I look back, I understand.
In 2025, the Americans finished with 34 points, ahead of Chivas, who had 29 points. Now, that position has been reversed. Chivas have already surpassed their record from the previous tournament and are in first place, but the USA, with 18 points, is far from that level.
There is still a long way to go until the tournament, but we are already heading in a certain direction.
Because if before America was the team that imposed conditions, today Chivas are in control, at least for now.
