As the 2024 Liga MX Apertura season commences, fans eagerly anticipate the clash between Atlas and Santos Laguna at Jalisco Stadium this Tuesday. Both teams are in search of their first victory of the season, a win that could provide the much-needed momentum for the matches ahead.
Atlas, hailing from Guadalajara, experienced a mixed result on Saturday, failing to maintain their half-time lead and ultimately settling for a 1-1 draw against Tigres. Similarly, Verdiblancos, also known as Santos Laguna, secured a 1-1 draw against Pumas. This encounter promises to be a compelling fixture as both sides strive to turn their fortunes around.
The Current Form of Atlas
Struggles in the Apertura
After two matchdays in the Apertura, Atlas finds itself in the lower half of the league table with just two points. Despite not suffering any losses under the guidance of Benat San Jose, the team has failed to secure a win in their last two matches, even after scoring the opening goal. This trend extends back to their previous Clausura campaign, highlighting a recurring issue in maintaining leads.
Home Ground Woes
Atlas has struggled to capitalize on their home advantage, winning only one of their last eight home matches in Liga MX. This solitary victory came in April when they managed a comeback to defeat San Luis 2-1. Despite the scarcity of wins, Atlas has frequently avoided defeat, earning at least a point in four of their previous five domestic fixtures.
Recent Encounters
Atlas has had a favorable record against Santos Laguna in recent times. They are unbeaten in their last three Liga MX encounters against Laguna and have not lost any of their last four home games against them. This historical advantage could play a crucial role in their upcoming match.
Santos Laguna’s Journey
A Resilient Start
Santos Laguna, after a dismal end to their recent Clausura campaign where they lost their final three matches with a combined margin of 7-0, have shown resilience in the Apertura. They have only conceded two goals so far this season, indicating a significant improvement in their defensive strategies.
Struggles to Convert Leads
Ignacio Ambriz’s side managed to score the opening goal over the weekend for the first time in this domestic campaign. However, they have now failed to secure a win in three consecutive Liga MX matches after taking the lead. This inability to maintain a winning momentum is a concern that needs addressing.
Historical Performance
Dating back to the 2024 Clausura campaign, Santos Laguna has not won a domestic contest since March when they triumphed 3-0 over Cruz Azul. Their last away victory was also in March, a 1-0 win against Queretaro. Despite these challenges, Laguna has managed to secure points in three of their previous four meetings with Atlas, although their last away win against them was in 2019.
Injury Concerns and Lineup Predictions
Atlas’ Injury Report
Atlas faced the recent absence of key players due to injuries. Brian Lozano was sidelined as he recovers from knee surgery, and Mauro Manotas missed out due to an ACL injury. However, Raymundo Fulgencio, on loan from Tigres, netted the opening goal for Atlas on matchday two, marking his first goal of the campaign.
Santos Laguna’s Injury Report
Santos Laguna will be without Anderson Santamaria, who received two cautions in their weekend fixture. Pedro Aquino, Ronaldo Prieto, and Hugo Rodriguez were also sidelined with knee injuries. Santiago Munoz, who converted a 33rd-minute penalty on matchday two, remains the only player to have scored for Santos Laguna this season.
Probable Lineups
- Atlas Possible Starting Lineup:
- Hernandez
- Lozano, Nervo, Mora, Reyes
- Bass, Rocha
- Murillo, Marquez, Fulgencio
-
E. Aguirre
-
Santos Laguna Possible Starting Lineup:
- Acevedo
- Govea, Nunez, Lorona, Echeverria
- Lopez, Mariscal
- Medina, Carrillo, Macias
- Munoz
Key Players to Watch
- Raymundo Fulgencio (Atlas): A dynamic player on loan from Tigres, Fulgencio has already made an impact by scoring in the last match. His performance will be crucial for Atlas in breaking the deadlock.
- Santiago Munoz (Santos Laguna): Munoz has been the sole scorer for Santos this season. His ability to convert chances into goals will be vital for Laguna’s success.
Tactical Analysis
Atlas’ Approach:
– Defensive Solidity: Atlas needs to focus on maintaining their defensive structure to prevent conceding early goals.
– Midfield Control: Controlling the midfield will be crucial for Atlas to transition effectively from defense to attack.
Santos Laguna’s Strategy:
– Counter-Attack: Utilizing quick counter-attacks could exploit Atlas’ defensive vulnerabilities.
– Set-Piece Efficiency: Maximizing opportunities during set-pieces could be a game-changer for Santos.
FAQs
What is the current form of Atlas?
Atlas has struggled to secure victories but has managed to avoid defeats frequently, earning points in four of their last five domestic matches.
How has Santos Laguna performed this season?
Santos Laguna has shown resilience, conceding only two goals so far despite not securing a win in their last three matches after scoring first.
Who are the key players to watch in this match?
Raymundo Fulgencio from Atlas and Santiago Munoz from Santos Laguna are the key players to watch due to their recent performances.
What are the injury concerns for both teams?
Atlas will miss Brian Lozano and Mauro Manotas due to injuries, while Santos Laguna will be without Anderson Santamaria, Pedro Aquino, Ronaldo Prieto, and Hugo Rodriguez.
What are the probable lineups for the match?
Atlas is likely to start with Hernandez, Lozano, Nervo, Mora, Reyes, Bass, Rocha, Murillo, Marquez, Fulgencio, and E. Aguirre. Santos Laguna may line up with Acevedo, Govea, Nunez, Lorona, Echeverria, Lopez, Mariscal, Medina, Carrillo, Macias, and Munoz.
What is the historical performance between the two teams?
Atlas is unbeaten in their last three encounters against Santos Laguna and has not lost any of their last four home games against them. Santos Laguna’s last away win against Atlas was in 2019.
Conclusion
As Atlas and Santos Laguna prepare to face off at Jalisco Stadium, both teams are keen to secure their first victory of the 2024 Liga MX Apertura season. Atlas aims to break their winless streak and capitalize on their home advantage, while Santos Laguna looks to build on their improved defensive performances. With key players missing due to injuries, both sides will need to rely on their tactical strategies and remaining squad strength. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams strive for three crucial points to boost their standings in the league.
