With just five matchdays remaining in the Liga MX Apertura season, the competition at the top is incredibly tight. Sunday`s encounter between Pumas UNAM and Chivas Guadalajara is crucial, as both teams are desperately seeking all three points to solidify their playoff positions. Currently sitting eighth and ninth respectively, they are separated by a mere point. However, Chivas are only three points ahead of 13th place, a spot that would result in missing the playoffs entirely.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, October 4 | Time: 9 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Olimpico Universitario — Mexico City, Mexico
- TV Channel: CBS Sports Network
- Odds: Pumas UNAM +125; Draw +230; Chivas Guadalajara
Chivas Guadalajara, a club with a rich history, has shown recent signs of improvement despite a challenging season. They have secured two victories in their last four matches, including a significant rivalry win against Club America. Armando Gonzalez has been a key offensive player, contributing with five goals this season.
Gonzalez and the Chivas attack will face a formidable Pumas defense, especially considering recent squad upgrades with additions like Aaron Ramsey and Pedro Vite. Pumas are eager to rebound from recent away defeats to Club America and Juarez. Their home ground, Estadio Olimpico Universitario, has proven to be a strong advantage, where the team has lost only one of their five matches played there.
This evenly matched encounter carries significant weight for both sides. Chivas, however, are grappling with a substantial injury crisis, as key players such as Leonardo Sepulveda, Javier Hernandez, Daniel Aguirre, Erik Gutierrez, Alan Mozo, Roberto Alvarado, and Bryan Gonzalez are all anticipated to be absent. This situation could open a crucial opportunity for American forward Cade Cowell. Despite only scoring once in 11 appearances and experiencing fluctuating playing time, Cowell`s contribution will be vital with so many attacking options sidelined. His tenure at Chivas hasn`t been smooth, but this match presents an ideal chance for him to make an impact and revitalize his performance.
