“Atlas vs Santos Laguna: Battle for First Apertura Win in 2024”
In a highly anticipated clash on Tuesday, Atlas and Santos Laguna will face off at Jalisco Stadium as both teams search for their first win of the 2024 Liga MX Apertura season. After two matchdays, the teams have yet to secure a victory, making this encounter crucial for their progression in the league.
The Struggle for Early Season Wins
Atlas, hailing from Guadalajara, couldn’t capitalize on a half-time lead against Tigres on Saturday, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Similarly, Santos Laguna managed the same scoreline against Pumas. Both teams are eager to break this cycle of draws and secure their first three points.
Atlas’ Home Challenges
Atlas currently sits in the lower half of the Liga MX table with just two points from their opening matches. Despite not losing yet under the guidance of Benat San Jose, the team has struggled to clinch victories, particularly when scoring first. This trend dates back to the previous Clausura campaign.
- Home Performance: Atlas has won only one of their last eight home games in Liga MX, a 2-1 comeback victory against San Luis in April.
- Recent Form: They have managed to avoid defeat in four of their last five domestic matches, demonstrating resilience despite not securing wins.
Santos Laguna’s Defensive Solidity
Santos Laguna had a disappointing end to their Clausura campaign, losing their final three matches by a combined score of 7-0. However, their defensive performances have improved markedly in the current season.
- Defensive Record: They have conceded only two goals in their opening matches.
- Scoring First: Despite taking the lead over the weekend, they have failed to win three consecutive Liga MX matches when scoring first.
Key Players and Injuries
Injuries have played a significant role in both teams’ early-season struggles. Atlas missed Brian Lozano due to knee surgery and Mauro Manotas due to an ACL injury. Raymundo Fulgencio, on loan from Tigres, scored his first goal of the season on matchday two.
Santos Laguna will be without Anderson Santamaria, who received two yellow cards in their last match. Additionally, Pedro Aquino, Ronaldo Prieto, and Hugo Rodriguez are sidelined with knee injuries. Santiago Munoz, who converted a penalty on matchday two, is the only player to score for Santos Laguna this season.
Possible Starting Lineups
Atlas:
– Hernandez; Lozano, Nervo, Mora, Reyes; Bass, Rocha; Murillo, Marquez, Fulgencio; E. Aguirre
Santos Laguna:
– Acevedo; Govea, Nunez, Lorona, Echeverria; Lopez, Mariscal; Medina, Carrillo, Macias; Munoz
The Potential Outcomes
Given the early season context and their recent form, Santos Laguna might have the edge in frustrating Atlas and securing a positive result. Their improved defensive record and ability to hold their own against tougher opposition could prove decisive.
FAQs
Q1: When is the match between Atlas and Santos Laguna?
The match is scheduled for Tuesday at Jalisco Stadium.
Q2: How have Atlas performed at home recently?
Atlas has struggled at home, with only one win in their last eight Liga MX matches.
Q3: Who are the key players missing for Atlas?
Brian Lozano and Mauro Manotas are notable absentees due to knee and ACL injuries, respectively.
Q4: What is Santos Laguna’s recent defensive record?
Santos Laguna has conceded only two goals in their opening matches of the 2024 Liga MX Apertura season.
Q5: Who is the top scorer for Santos Laguna this season?
Santiago Munoz is the only player to have scored for Santos Laguna so far this season.
Conclusion
As Atlas and Santos Laguna clash at Jalisco Stadium, both teams are desperate for their first win of the 2024 Liga MX Apertura season. With each side facing challenges and missing key players, the match promises to be a tightly contested affair. Atlas must overcome their home struggles, while Santos Laguna aims to capitalize on their improved defensive performances. Regardless of the outcome, this match will be pivotal in shaping their early season trajectories.
