Background on America and Pumas
America, playing as the home team at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, has not been experiencing their best days due to a depleted roster caused by injuries. Meanwhile, Pumas, despite their current struggles, will face America as visitors.
America’s Recent Performance
America has only lost once at home this season (against Chivas in Jornada 8). However, Pumas as visitors haven’t posed a significant threat, securing two victories this campaign under the same conditions. With 21 points, Pumas would qualify for the liguilla if the regular season ended today. America, on the other hand, needs a win to secure their play-in spot.
America’s Injury Concerns
The Azulcrema squad is working hard to reorganize amidst a challenging season with incomplete roster due to injuries. Recently, 21-year-old homegrown player Dagoberto Espinoza joined the injured list, expected to be out for several months following ACL surgery on his left knee. Other players currently sidelined include Henry Martín (knee sprain), Álvaro Fidalgo (bilateral patellar tendonitis), Rodrigo Aguirre (muscle discomfort), Jonathan Dos Santos (right leg muscle tear), and Sebastián Cáceres (muscle discomfort).
Addressing the Absences
With Dagoberto’s absence, Kevin Álvarez is being considered to fill in for the right-back position. He has played in seven matches without scoring, with his full 90 minutes coming against San Luis in Jornada 109. Meanwhile, America maintains hope for elevation in the standings with Allan Saint-Maximin, who has scored 2 goals in his call-ups.
Pumas’ Current Situation
Despite three wins in ten games, Pumas face a more challenging situation. Their upcoming opponent is America, known for having the second-best defense so far. Pumas still have six games left, including matches against Rayados and Cruz Azul.
Key Players and Their Impact
Keylor Navas: The star goalkeeper from Real Madrid has conceded 7 goals in 8 appearances.
Pedro Vite: The costliest acquisition for Pumas at 3.80 million euros, he has yet to score in eight appearances.
Coach Efraín’s Perspective
Efraín, the coach, has praised Guillermo Martínez and José Juan Macías since their arrival two weeks ago. Macías has scored 2 goals in 4 appearances, while Efraín expressed his satisfaction with both players’ progress and their Mexican nationality.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation of America and Pumas? America, despite injuries, aims to secure a play-in spot, while Pumas need wins to qualify for the liguilla.
- Who are some key injured players for America? Dagoberto Espinoza, Henry Martín, Álvaro Fidalgo, Rodrigo Aguirre, Jonathan Dos Santos, and Sebastián Cáceres are currently sidelined.
- How has America’s performance been with their injured players? America has only lost once at home this season, demonstrating resilience despite the challenges.
- What are Pumas’ recent results and upcoming fixtures? Pumas have three wins in ten games, with tough matches against America, Rayados, and Cruz Azul still ahead.
- Who are some crucial players for each team and their recent performances?
- America: Allan Saint-Maximin has scored 2 goals in his call-ups, while Kevin Álvarez is being considered to fill in for injured players.
- Pumas: Keylor Navas has conceded 7 goals in 8 appearances, and Pedro Vite, the most expensive signing, has yet to score in eight games.
