Club América adjusted his tactical setup for the first time in the Apertura 2026 Liga MX tournament, deploying a dual-striker formation featuring Miguel Borja and Carlos Álvarez up front against Necaxa. Playing away in Aguascalientes, the squad faced a series of squad absences that forced head coach Guillermo Almada to alter his scheme.
The visiting Club América side entered this match against the Rayos dealing with a total of seven player absences. Raphael Veiga was unavailable due to an absence, while Israel Reyes, Isaías Violante, Brian Rodríguez, and Óscar Perea were away with their respective national selections. Additionally, Alan Cervantes and Diego Arriaga were sidelined due to injuries.
Tactical Shifts and Starting XI
With Guillermo Almada deciding to dispense with an attacking midfielder given Veiga’s absence, the manager deployed a double-striker partnership comprising Henry Martín and Miguel Borja from the start. The pair previously displayed positive connection during minutes shared against Chivas, where Martín assisted Borja for an equalizing goal in the Clásico Nacional.
The Azulcrema starting lineup features Rodolfo Cota in goal. Almada maintained the defensive line utilized against Chivas, positioning Emilio Lara and Miguel Vázquez as central defenders, with Cristian Borja and Dagoberto Espinoza occupying the flanks.
Midfield and Offensive Setup
In the midfield, Edwin Cerrillo earned a starting role taking the place of the injured Cervantes, playing alongside Erick Sánchez. On the wings, Alejandro Zendejas took the right side, while Carlos Álvarez secured his first career start as an América player after previously logging initial minutes against Guadalajara.
Almada deployed Martín and Borja together in the attack from the opening whistle, seeking the crucial victory on the road in Aguascalientes.
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