Chivas vs Puebla Preview: Predictions and Lineups Analyzed

Chivas host Puebla at the Estadio Akron on Saturday, April 18. The match carries weight for both sides with the regular season nearing its end.

Match details

Context and form

Chivas remain atop the Liga MX table despite a heavy loss last weekend. They fell 4-1 to Tigres, with Daniel Aguirre scoring Guadalajara’s lone goal.

Before that defeat, Chivas had gone five matches without losing. Their prior reverse came against Toluca.

Puebla arrive with slim hopes of making a late push. Even three consecutive wins would not guarantee moving beyond eighth place.

The visitors have not won since March 4. Since then they have recorded two draws and three losses.

Head-to-head

Recent meetings favor Chivas. In the last five clashes between the clubs, Guadalajara won four times. Puebla claimed one victory. The most recent match listed was a 2-0 Chivas win on 27/9/26.

Squad notes and tactical outlook

Chivas face potential absences due to the upcoming Mexico World Cup squad announcement. Key names likely to be considered include Raúl Rangel, Brian Gutiérrez, Roberto Alvarado, and Armando González.

Coach Gabriel Milito may fast-track fringe players before call-ups. Reports suggest Óscar Whalley could be given a start to gain experience.

Likely Chivas setup

• Formation: 3-4-2-1 (reported)
• Possible XI: Óscar Whalley; José Castillo, Diego Campillo, Dani Aguirre; Bryan González, Rubén González, Luis Romo, Richy Ledezma; Efraín Álvarez, Roberto Alvarado, Armando González.
• Omar Govea remains unavailable. Richard Ledezma could return.

Puebla situation and lineup

Albert Espigares leads a side already eliminated from title contention. The coach has acknowledged the need for patience and process amid pressure.

Puebla also face off-field consequences. They sit near the bottom of the relegation coefficient and likely face an 80 million peso fine.

• Reported formation: 3-4-2-1
• Possible XI: Ricardo Gutiérrez; Nico Díaz, Juan Vargas, Luis Rey; Fernando Monarrez, Alejandro Organista, Alonso Ramírez, Iker Moreno; Emiliano Gómez, Kevin Velasco, Alexis Canelo.

Prediction and analysis

This preview looks at form, tactics, and likely selection. Chivas are expected to push for a quick response after their heavy loss.

Puebla have struggled for results and confidence. Given recent records, a Chivas win seems the most probable outcome.

Forecast: Chivas 3-1 Puebla.

Broadcast information

• United States: Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes en vivo, UNIVERSO, UNIVERSO NOW, Peacock
• Mexico: Amazon Prime Video

For further coverage and lineup updates, follow Filmogaz.com ahead of kickoff.