Pumas - Monterrey: El choque que puede sacudir la Clausura 2026 en CU

The pumas - monterrey clash in Jornada 7 of the Clausura 2026 is set for Sunday at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, and the available lineups plus Monterrey's recent form ensure this fixture could influence the early-season table. Kickoff is scheduled for 18: 00 (United States), 17: 00 (Mexico) and 00: 00 (Spain).

Pumas - Monterrey: Possible starting lineup details for Pumas UNAM

Projected personnel for Pumas UNAM include a mix of experienced internationals and recent reinforcements. The available lineup notes identify key pieces that could shape the home side's approach:

• PO: Keylor Navas — Listed as goalkeeper and captain at CU, highlighted for reflexes and leadership.
• LD: Rodrigo López — A 24-year-old Mexican midfielder, capable as mediocentro or interior; joined Pumas in 2023 after coming through Querétaro.
• DFC: Nathan Silva — A 28-year-old Brazilian center back, signed by Pumas in 2023 from Atlético Mineiro; noted for strength and pace in build-up.
• DFC: Rubén Duarte — A 30-year-old Spanish defender who arrived in July 2024; valued for versatility and clean distribution from the left.
• LI: Álvaro Angulo — Colombian left back, with previous stops at Atlético Nacional and Independiente; signed in July 2025 and noted for offensive tendencies on the flank.
• MD: Alan Medina — A 28-year-old Mexican winger who joined in 2025; described as quick, skillful and a contributor in goals.
• MC: César Garza — A 20-year-old midfielder developed at Rayados with a stint at Dundee FC; arrived on loan in January 2026 and highlighted for recovery and distribution.

These named players form the nucleus of the possible Pumas setup for the fixture, blending leadership in goal, a reinforced backline and creative midfield options.

RAYADOS BUSCA MANTENER LA RACHA POSITIVA EN CU

Monterrey arrives in Mexico City aiming to extend a favorable run at the Olímpico Universitario. The visiting side has won each of their last three trips to CU and is pursuing a fourth straight victory on this ground. Looking at a broader sample, Monterrey's record in the last 10 matches in CDMX stands at 4 wins, 4 draws and 2 defeats.

Inside the competition, Monterrey comes into Jornada 7 placed eighth with 10 points and will target a win that could lift them to fifth. Statistical notes from the squad show a potent attack and a compact back line: described as the tournament's fifth best offense with 11 points and the third best defense with only 5 goals conceded.

Why this match can shake the Clausura 2026

With Monterrey chasing a climb in the standings and Pumas fielding a group that mixes international experience with recent signings, the immediate implications are clear: a Monterrey victory would reinforce their momentum in CDMX and improve their position in the table, while a positive result for Pumas would arrest the visitors' run and reshape the top-half race early in the season. The clash therefore carries significance beyond a single three-point swing.

Final preparations and exact starting lineups remain subject to confirmation ahead of kickoff, and details may evolve as both clubs finalize selections. For now, the pumas - monterrey meeting presents a compelling intersection of form, personnel and standings impact in Clausura 2026.