The opening round of fixtures for the Liga MX Apertura 2026 tournament concludes on 18 July with an electrifying encounter. This highly anticipated match sees the Gallos Blancos of Querétaro clash against América at La Corregidora. Both teams will be competing intensely for the initial three points of the new tournament, setting the tone for their respective campaigns.
Querétaro’s Drive for Improvement
Querétaro returns to the Apertura 2026 with a clear objective: to significantly improve upon their performance in the previous tournament. Last season, the Gallos Blancos only managed to secure four victories, alongside eight draws and five defeats. This record ultimately led to their elimination, as they finished in 11th position in the league table.
To bolster their chances, manager Esteban González has reinforced the Querétaro squad. The new additions include Paulo Víctor, Enzo Giménez, Bernardo Parra, and Michael Carcelén. These players join a revitalised Gallos Blancos team, described as having a strong ‘hunger for glory’ as they embark on the new season.
América’s New Managerial Era
The narrative is different for the Águilas of América, who experienced a contrasting trajectory in their last tournament. América successfully qualified for the Liguilla by finishing eighth in the table, having accumulated seven victories, four draws, and six losses throughout their campaign. However, their progress in the competition was halted in the Quarter-Finals, where they were eliminated by Pumas.
This Quarter-Final exit marked the conclusion of the Jardine era for América. Guillermo Almada has since taken over the reins, assuming the role of the new manager for the club. Under Almada’s leadership, the América squad has also sought to strengthen its roster, bringing in new players such as Emilio Lara and Esteban Lozano.
The Battle for Early Advantage
Guillermo Almada and his América squad will be looking to make a strong impression in the Liga MX right from the outset. Their primary aim is to deliver a clear warning to the rest of the league, signalling their intentions for the Apertura 2026 campaign. To achieve this impactful start, they must first overcome the challenge posed by the rejuvenated Querétaro side.
This fixture will be contested for the initial three points of the tournament, with América aiming to send a clear warning to the league.
Match Odds and Predictions
Leading sports betting platforms, including #RushBet, are providing odds for the Querétaro versus América match. It is important to note that these betting odds are dynamic and can change frequently. Such fluctuations may occur both before the game commences and at various points during live play.