Marco Fabian controls the ball in midfield against Xolos in Tijuana.
by Leigh Suarez
A month ago, Chivas was still navigating in the dark waters of relegation. Looking ahead in the calendar back then, a visit to Liga MX leaders Tijuana, followed by the SuperClasico and then another away game against the almighty Tigres seemed to be the end of Guadalajara’s attempt to escape relegation.
The story today is completely different. It was Xolos who stepped on the field of the Caliente Stadium on Friday night carrying a load of pressure from three consecutive setbacks. Meanwhile, Chivas appeared relaxed and convinced by the strategic plan of their head coach Jose Manuel “Chepo” de la Torre.
Just as Xolos appeared to be the favorites to win it all this Clausura 2015 season a couple of weeks ago, now the attention has shifted to Chivas. After the 1-1 draw between Tijuana and Guadalajara, there are a few reasons to believe that not only has Chivas escaped relegation, but are serious title contenders.
Guadalajara’s 2015 roster is the most complete they’ve had in years if not a decade. When “Chepo” looks back at his bench, he has a handful of alternatives. His substitutions in the game versus Tijuana were on point and proof of the versatility his players offer him tactically.
“Chepo” brought a proven striker in like Aldo de Nigris for defensive midfielder, Israel Castro. With de Nigris on the field, Marco Fabian was pulled back into midfield to join Carlos Salcido. Then, centerback Jair Pereira had to be subbed because of an injury and Nestor Vidrio, a right back took his place. Salcido took Pereira’s spot in the center, Vidrio went right, and Raul Lopez was moved to midfield. And just as “Chepo” took those decisions Friday night, he could’ve gone many other ways.
While Chivas are not playing spectacular football, they are highly effective. Chivas are 5-1-3 since losing 1-0 to Santos on February 6th. They have the best defense of the tournament allowing only 10 goals in 14 games. Their 3 losses so far this season have been by a 1-goal margin. Chivas players also haven’t seen a single red card this season during a match (Erik “Cubo” Torres earned a red card after the game vs Santos).
Chivas can now think big. They have a team that has all the elements to fight for the title. Xolos meanwhile, have to prove they are championship material in their final three matches this season. The return of Juan Arango will help, but what Tijuana really need are victories to bring back their confidence.
