The 2023-24 Liga MX season is nearing its halfway point, and the battle for the top spot is as fierce as ever. Club América currently sits atop the table, but several teams are hot on their heels, making for an exciting race to the Liguilla (playoffs). This article dives deep into the current Liga MX standings, exploring the top contenders, the surprise teams, and the narratives shaping the season thus far.
Club América Soars High
Club América, the most decorated team in Liga MX history, has lived up to its billing so far. They boast a strong offence led by the ever-dangerous striker Henry Martín, who finds himself near the top of the goalscoring charts. América’s midfield maestro, Richard Sánchez, has been pulling the strings in the centre of the park, dictating the tempo and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Their defence, marshalled by the experienced Sebastián Cáceres, has been relatively solid, conceding only 12 goals in 17 games. Manager Fernando Ortiz deserves credit for instilling a winning mentality and a cohesive playing style in his squad.
However, Club América faces a stiff challenge from several other contenders.
Cruz Azul Chasing Glory
Cruz Azul, the perennial bridesmaid of Liga MX, is right behind América in the standings. They possess a potent attack spearheaded by the creative midfielder Ángel Romero and the clinical finisher Santiago Giménez. Their defence, though occasionally shaky, has shown signs of improvement under the experienced central defender Julio Domínguez. Coach Juan Reynoso has emphasized a possession-based approach, and his team has been effective in breaking down opposing defences.
The Rise of Toluca
One of the biggest surprises this season has been the resurgence of Deportivo Toluca. The “Diablos Rojos” (Red Devils) boast the league’s highest-scoring offence, with a whopping 38 goals in 17 games. Veteran striker Carlos González has rediscovered his scoring touch, while the young winger Alexis Canelo has been a revelation with his pace and trickery. Manager Ignacio Ambriz has instilled an attacking philosophy that has yielded exciting results.
Monterrey and Tigres: A Familiar Rivalry
The powerhouses from Monterrey, C.F. Monterrey and Tigres UANL, are never far from the conversation. Both teams possess talented squads and experienced managers. Monterrey, under the guidance of Víctor Manuel Vucetich, relies on a strong defensive foundation and a counter-attacking style. Tigres, led by the ever-demanding Diego Cocca, boasts a more possession-based approach with players like André-Pierre Gignac leading the line. These two teams are expected to be major players in the Liguilla race.
Chivas Guadalajara: A Team in Transition
Chivas Guadalajara, known for their all-Mexican policy, has had a mixed season so far. They’ve shown flashes of brilliance with their young attacking talent, but inconsistency has plagued their results. Manager Veljko Paunović is still trying to find the right formula, and the pressure is mounting as Chivas fans expect a return to their winning ways.
The Dark Horses: Pachuca and Pumas
Pachuca and Club Universidad Nacional (Pumas) are teams to watch out for in the second half of the season. Pachuca, under the tactical mastermind Guillermo Almada, plays an attractive brand of attacking football. Pumas, led by the promising manager Rafael Puente Jr., boasts a young and hungry squad with a strong emphasis on homegrown talent. Both teams have the potential to challenge the established order.
Questions Looming Over the Season
While the current standings offer a snapshot of the season so far, several questions remain unanswered:
Can Club América maintain their lead? Their schedule gets tougher in the second half, and injuries could disrupt their momentum.
Will Cruz Azul finally break their championship drought? They haven’t won a title since the 1997 Apertura, and the pressure is on to deliver.
Can Toluca sustain their offensive explosion? Maintaining their scoring form throughout the season will be key to their Liguilla aspirations.
Will Monterrey or Tigres reign supreme in the north? These two rivals are always pushing each other, and the battle for dominance in the region promises to be fierce.
Can Chivas Guadalajara find consistency? Their young talent needs to step up if they want to challenge for the title.
FAQs
Where can I find the latest Liga MX standings?
There are several places you can find the Liga MX standings online. Here are a few popular options:
Sports Websites: Many sports websites, like FOX Sports and SoccerSTATS.com, offer up-to-date standings with additional information like team stats and upcoming fixtures.
Liga MX Official Sources: The official Liga MX website (in Spanish) likely has a standings section as well.
Sports Apps: Many sports apps, like Flashscore, also have Liga MX standings readily available.
How are the Liga MX standings determined?
The Liga MX standings are determined by points earned throughout the season. Teams receive points for wins (3 points), draws (1 point), and losses (0 points). The team with the most points at the end of the season finishes top of the table.
What is the difference between Apertura and Clausura?
The Liga MX season is divided into two tournaments: Apertura (Fall) and Clausura (Spring). Each tournament has its separate standings, and the winner of each is crowned champion. The top teams from both tournaments then qualify for the playoffs to determine the overall champion of Liga MX.
Does Liga MX have relegation?
Unlike most major soccer leagues, Liga MX does not have a relegation system. Teams cannot be relegated to the second division, and there is no promotion from the second division to Liga MX.
Who is currently leading the Liga MX standings?
As of today, June 13, 2024, it is important to specify which tournament you’re interested in, Apertura or Clausura, as the season is likely ongoing. You can find the latest standings using the resources mentioned above.
What are the benefits of following the Liga MX standings?
Following the Liga MX standings allows you to:
See which teams are performing well and which are struggling.
Track the race for the championship in both the Apertura and Clausura tournaments.
Identify potential playoff contenders.
Gain insights into team form and upcoming matchups.
Conclusion
The Liga MX standings are a vital resource for any fan of Mexican soccer. By following the standings, you can stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the league and make informed predictions about the outcome of the season. So, whether you’re a die-hard supporter of a particular team or simply a casual observer, keeping an eye on the Liga MX standings is a great way to enhance your enjoyment of the beautiful game.
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