Puebla welcomes Necaxa to Estadio Cuauhtémoc on Friday, March 13, 2026, for a Liga BBVA MX, Torneo Clausura matchup. Both teams are looking to climb the Liga MX standings as the Clausura 2026 season progresses, and this match offers a crucial opportunity to gain ground. Puebla, currently 10th in the league, faces a Necaxa side sitting in 16th place.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 PM local time in Puebla, Mexico. For viewers in the United States, that translates to 8:00 PM Central Time. Fans can follow all the action live on ESPN, according to recent reports. [1, 2]
Recent Form and Team News
Puebla enters this contest following a defeat against Pachuca in their most recent outing. Managed by Alberto Espigares, La Franja has a record of three wins, two draws, and five losses through 10 matches in the Torneo Clausura. They currently have 11 points. [1, 2]
Necaxa, under the direction of Martín Varini, as well suffered a loss in their previous match, falling to Pumas. Los Rayos have secured three wins, no draws, and seven losses, accumulating nine points thus far. [1, 2]
Key Players to Watch
For Puebla, keep an eye on forward Emiliano Gomez, who leads the attack. Midfielder Ricardo Gutiérrez will be vital in controlling the midfield. The starting lineup includes Vargas, Navarro, and Pachuca. [1, 2]
Necaxa will look to Kevin Rosero to spark their offense. Rosero scored in their previous match against Puebla. Other key players for Necaxa include Tomás Badaloni and Cristian Calderón. [1, 2]
Match Details and Lineups
Here are the confirmed starting lineups as of 8:30 PM local time (March 13, 2026):
Puebla
- Goalkeeper: Gutiérrez
- Defenders: Vargas, Navarro, Baltazar, Pachuca
- Midfielders: Diaz, Organista, Ramirez, Velasco
- Forwards: Gomez, Guerra
Necaxa
- Goalkeeper: Moreno
- Defenders: Rey, Garnica, Calderón, Rosero
- Midfielders: Lozano, Araos
- Forwards: Badaloni
Substitutes are available for both sides, including Jesus Rodriguez and Owen González for Puebla, and Fernando Monarrez for Necaxa. [1, 2]
Liga MX Standings Update
As of March 13, 2026, here’s a look at the top of the Liga MX Clausura standings:
- Cruz Azul (8-1-1, 25 points)
- Toluca (7-3-0, 24 points)
- Guadalajara (7-0-2, 21 points)
- Pachuca (6-2-2, 20 points)
- Pumas UNAM (5-4-1, 19 points)
- Tigres UANL (5-1-4, 16 points)
- Atlas (5-1-4, 16 points)
- América (4-2-4, 14 points)
- Monterrey (4-1-5, 13 points)
- Puebla (3-2-5, 11 points)
Necaxa currently sits in 16th place with nine points. A win for either team could significantly impact their position in the league table. [1, 2]
What to Watch For
The midfield battle between Puebla’s Ricardo Gutiérrez and Necaxa’s Brayan Garnica will be crucial. Both players are key to their team’s build-up play and ability to control possession. Puebla’s home advantage at Estadio Cuauhtémoc could also play a significant role, as they look to capitalize on the support of their fans. The match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams eager to secure three points. [1, 2]
Recent reports indicate that Mexico’s soccer leagues suspended games amid cartel-related violence, highlighting the challenges facing the sport in the country. This adds another layer of context to the match, as security concerns remain a topic of discussion. [1]
Looking Ahead
Following this match, Puebla will travel to face [Opponent to be determined – not in sources], while Necaxa will return home to host [Opponent to be determined – not in sources]. Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates and analysis on Liga MX action. [1, 2]
Key Takeaways:
- Puebla hosts Necaxa at Estadio Cuauhtémoc on March 13, 2026.
- The match kicks off at 9:00 PM local time (8:00 PM CT) and will be broadcast on ESPN.
- Puebla is 10th in the Liga MX standings with 11 points, while Necaxa is 16th with 9 points.
What are your predictions for the match? Share your thoughts in the comments below!