Liga MX clubs América and Pumas shape squads ahead of Apertura 2026

Club América entered the 2026‑2027 season under new coach Guillermo Almada, who inherited a roster with six foreign players and several departures after the World Cup. The club’s preseason included a 1‑0 loss to LA Galaxy in Los Angeles, prompting Almada to consider tactical tweaks and the possible revival of forward José Zúñiga. Meanwhile, Pumas completed their preparation with a 1‑0 friendly defeat to Colombia’s América de Cali. The match featured the debut of former América midfielder Sebastián Córdova, who started for the university side, and other new signings such as Cristian Calderón. Pumas will open the Apertura on 18 July against Pachuca. Betting analysts also released pre‑match forecasts for the upcoming Pumas‑Pachuca clash, highlighting a 48 % win probability for Pumas and recommending the Pumas victory at odds of 2.25 as the best value bet.