We are just a few hours away from finding out how, when and where the quarterfinals of the Apertura 2023 will be played, so Chivas is not slowing down and continues with its intense preparation for the match against Pumas. This match has some unfinished business, as on the last day of the competition, the Rebaño lost by the minimum score in Ciudad Universitaria.
Both teams have had a fairly even half-year in terms of numbers and it looks set to be the most evenly matched game in the quarterfinals, as Chivas only accumulated one point less than Pumas. In addition, they concluded the regular phase of the Apertura 2023 with the same number of wins (8).
What must Guadalajara do to beat Pumas?
In order to make an analysis after what we saw in Matchday 17, we must consider several extra aspects, as Chivas could not count on 3 trusted elements for Veljko Paunovic: Roberto Alvarado, Gilberto Chiquete and Gilberto Sepúlveda.
The last meeting between the two sides ended in a 1-0 victory for UNAM, although Guadalajara missed a few chances on goal. On that day, the game was fairly even, although the Rebaño's performance from the 15th minute onwards was very good, as they managed to counteract the university attacks by winning individual duels and defending the spaces that the Felinos usually attack.
The key to the tie lies in the management of individual duels, as Mozo did that night against Huerta, as the Universitarios usually generate their opportunities after winning these confrontations. In addition, they have Gabriel Fernandez in attack, who is constantly looking to use his body to receive long balls and leave his teammates in the second line facing him. That is why the work of the Red and White central defenders will be vital when it comes to protecting this area.
In attack, Chivas will have Roberto Alvarado, who was probably the Rebaño's best player in AP23 and who was unable to play in the game against Pumas. Having 'Piojo' in the attack will mean gaining in several aspects, such as short associations and the threat generated by his ball striking.
Guadalajara had a very good end to the tournament, not only in terms of results, but also in terms of performance, so they will have to hold on to the good inside play they have played in recent matches, generating advantages for the players on the sidelines so that they can then attack the feline area.
The Red and White fact
- Chivas has won 4 matches in a row against Pumas at the Akron Stadium.
