The Injuries: Who’s Out and Why It Hurts

According to an official statement released by Pumas on June 11, 2024, the team will begin the Apertura 2026 season without the services of defensive midfielder Uriel Antuna and striker Jorge Hernández, both of whom suffered season-ending injuries in the final weeks of the Clausura 2026 playoffs.

Uriel Antuna’s absence is particularly stinging. The 28-year-old, who has spent his entire career at Pumas, was sent off in the 89th minute of the Clausura final against Cruz Azul on May 26, 2024, after a controversial VAR review upheld a red card for a second yellow in stoppage time. His expulsion sealed Pumas’ fate in a 2-1 loss, ending their title hopes. While Antuna has since issued a public apology for his conduct, his injury—a torn ACL in his right knee suffered during the final’s penalty shootout celebrations—has sidelined him for at least 10 months, according to league medical reports.

Jorge Hernández’s departure is equally damaging. The 30-year-old striker, Pumas’ top scorer in Clausura 2026 with 12 goals, suffered a high-ankle sprain in the same match. While not as severe as Antuna’s injury, Hernández’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, with team doctors estimating a 4-6 month rehabilitation period. His absence leaves Pumas without a proven penalty-taker or set-piece specialist, a critical void given the league’s emphasis on aerial duels.

“The injuries to Antuna and Hernández are a double blow, but we’re focused on rebuilding the squad for Apertura. We have depth in midfield and up front, but it will take time to find the right rhythm.”

Why This Matters: Pumas’ Title Ambitions in Jeopardy

Apertura 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive campaigns in Liga MX history. With 18 teams and no automatic playoff berths, every point will count. Pumas, who finished second in the aggregate table last season, were heavy favorites to reclaim the title. Now, their chances hinge on three key factors:

  • Midfield depth: Antuna’s replacement will need to cover both defensive and creative roles. Youngster José Rodríguez (21) has been groomed for the job but lacks match experience at the highest level.
  • Striking partnership: Hernández’s absence forces Pumas to rely on Darwin Chávez (24) and Roberto Alvarado (29), neither of whom are proven penalty specialists.
  • Psychological impact: The loss of Antuna, a club legend, could affect team morale. His red card in the final became a viral moment, with memes and social media backlash still circulating. Cocca has framed the situation as an opportunity to “reset” the squad’s mentality.

The Bigger Picture: How This Affects the Liga MX Landscape

Pumas’ injuries create openings for their rivals. Here’s how the power dynamics shift:

Team Opportunity Risk
Tigres UANL Could capitalize on Pumas’ midfield weakness with players like Gonzalo Espejo and Alexis Vega. Overconfidence in a deep squad.
Cruz Azul Home-field advantage in the opening round-robin could be decisive. Defensive vulnerabilities if Pumas presses high.
Club América Chance to reclaim the title with a full squad, including Henry Martín and Ricardo Sánchez. Injury to Santiago Giménez (ankle) could derail their season.

What’s Next for Pumas: The Road Ahead

Pumas’ first match of Apertura 2026 is scheduled for July 20, 2024, at 9:00 PM local time (UTC-6) against Cruz Azul at the Estadio Azteca. The rematch of the Clausura final promises fireworks, but Pumas will enter the game without their two key players.

Beyond the opening fixture, Pumas’ schedule includes:

The team’s medical staff has confirmed that neither Antuna nor Hernández will be available for these matches. Cocca has indicated that pre-season training will focus on “adapting to the new roster dynamics” rather than fine-tuning tactics.

Key Takeaways

  • Pumas’ title defense is in serious doubt. The loss of Antuna and Hernández removes two of Mexico’s best midfielders and top goal-scorers.
  • Tigres and América are the biggest beneficiaries. Both teams enter the season with deeper squads and fewer injury concerns.
  • The Apertura 2026 race is wide open. With no clear favorite, the league’s unpredictable nature could produce a dramatic season.
  • Antuna’s injury extends beyond Pumas. His absence from Liga MX could impact Mexico’s World Cup qualifying campaign, where he was a key playmaker.
  • Cocca’s coaching will be tested. His ability to integrate young players and maintain morale will determine Pumas’ trajectory.

How to Follow Apertura 2026

For real-time updates on Pumas’ injuries and the Liga MX season, check these official sources:

The Uriel Antuna Curse!! Pumas vs. Cruz Azul Final | Is Cruz Azul the Champion? Will Pumas Lose t…

Next on ArchySport: A deep dive into how Pumas’ injuries compare to other Liga MX title contenders’ rosters—and which teams are best positioned to capitalize.