Mexico names 55-player World Cup preliminary squad as Cruz Azul prepares for Chivas semifinal

The Mexican national team announced a 55-player preliminary list for the upcoming World Cup. Midfielder Marcel Ruiz (Toluca) earned a spot despite a recent anterior cruciate ligament injury, while winger Diego Lainez (Tigres UANL) returned after previous disciplinary exclusions. Forward Hirving Lozano was omitted from the list, ending his World Cup chances.

In Liga MX, Cruz Azul faces Chivas Guadalajara in the first leg of the Clausura semifinal on May 13. Coach Joel Huiqui must decide between forwards Christian Ebere, who stepped in after missing the quarterfinals, and the Uruguayan striker “Toro” Fernández, who has been in the squad since the quarterfinals. The match will be played at Estadio Banorte at 20:00 local time.