Tijuana Xolos set for final playoff push in 2026 Clausura
Credit: Jeremy Collins (XoloGuero)/EVT Sports
The Tijuana Xolos have only lost one of their last five games in Liga MX play after having only one win in their first 10 games played. The Xoloitzcuintles are coming off a 1-1 draw against Cruz Azul at the Estadio Azteca, which has set the team up for a late playoff push.
The Border City Dogs only have two games left in the regular season that will be the most pivotal of the entire campaign. Club Tijuana is currently outside of a playoff spot in 10th place with 19 points.
Leon currently sits in the final playoff spot with 22 points and two games left to play. Atlas and Club America are also on that edge with 22 points as well, while Tigres is in ninth place with 21 points.
One thing is clear, and it is that the Aztec Canines cannot afford to lose one of the remaining two games in the season. The next task will be the final home game of the Clausura 2026 against Pachuca this Wednesday, April 22.
Pachuca has been a formidable team, currently second on the Liga MX table with 31 points. Los Tuzos are on a seven-game undefeated streak with three consecutive wins.
Pachuca is coming off a statement 3-1 away win against Monterrey and is fully ready for the playoffs. The Hidalgo-based team has only lost two games this season and will still be looking for points to contend for the top-seed position.
Salomon Rondon currently leads Pachuca with five goals scored, while Victor Guzman has seven goal contributions from midfield. Another key component of this team has been former Xolos midfielder Christian Rivera, who has played a significant role both offensively and defensively.
The midfield duels in this game will be key in what has the potential to be a physically draining clash for both sides.
Xolos’ striker Mourad El Ghezouani scored his first goal of the year in the game against Cruz Azul. El Ghezouani has filled in a distinct role this season, serving more in hold-up play and physical aspects of the game.
Kevin Castaneda has been the offensive force for the Xoloitzcuintles this season with seven goals scored. That tally is good for third-best in Liga MX as it has been a career year for the Mexican midfielder.
Gilberto Mora played 29 minutes off the bench against Cruz Azul as he continues to slowly build minutes prior to the World Cup. Mora is being monitored closely prior to the global tournament, and it is unclear if he will start either of the remaining regular-season Liga MX games.
There have been plenty of highs and lows for Club Tijuana this season in what still has the potential to be a very solid year.
Francisco, 28, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego FC, San Diego Wave. I have covered Liga MX, MLS, Mexico National Team, USWNT, Copa América and European clubs like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.