Andre Pierre Gignac led Tigres to the Apertura title. (Getty)
If you’re still holding your breath from December’s wild Apertura final, you’re in luck: Liga MX is ready to return to action tonight. The short break featured a number of key signings, but Gignac and Tigres remain the team to beat.
Last year, Tigres finished fifth in the regular season, but a strong Liguilla run propelled them to the finals against Pumas. After going up 4-0 in the first leg Pumas came roaring back, but Tigres raised the title after an intense 120 minutes and penalty shootout.
Over the break, several key players have made the jump into Liga MX. MLS fans will recognize some names, notably USMNT defender Omar Gonzalez, who finally made the jump to Mexico with Pachuca. Another big signing was Carlos Sanchez to Monterrey. The reigning South American Player of the Year is joining the side from River Plate, where he scored 42 goals in 2014-2015.
Expectations remain high for America, even after a disappointing showing at the Club World Cup. The CONCACAF Champions League winners finished fifth at the tournament, after a disappointing showing in the Apertura.
The Clausura kicks off tonight, when Querétaro meets Atlas in the season opener.
Here’s the full schedule for the first week of the Clausura (all times Eastern):
Querétaro vs. Atlas, Friday, 8:30 p.m.
Tijuana vs. Pachuca, Friday, 10:30 p.m.
América vs. Puebla, Saturday, 6:00 p.m.
Monterrey vs. Pumas, Saturday, 8:00 p.m.
León vs. Laguna, Saturday, 9:00 p.m.
Monarcas vs. Cruz Azul, Saturday, 9:30 p.m.
Chiapas vs. Dorados, Saturday, 10:00 p.m.
Toluca vs. Tigres, Sunday, 1:00 p.m.
Guadalajara vs. Veracruz, Sunday, 6:00 p.m.