Santos Laguna is gearing up for the Clausura 2026 as it prepares to face Necaxa this Saturday at Estadio Corona. Kick-off is set for 19:00 hours. The opening match will be officiated by referee Luis Alfredo García Rodríguez, supported by assistants Enríque Isaac Bustos Díaz and Enedina Caudillo Gómez, with Karen Hernández Andrade serving as the fourth official.
Santos Embarks on Clausura 2026 Journey with Fresh Blood
The Santos squad introduces several new players under the guidance of head coach Francisco Rodríguez. Notable signings include:
- Lucas di Yorio – Forward from Argentina
- Carlos Gruezo – Midfielder from Ecuador
- Ezequiel Bullaude – Midfielder from Argentina
- Efraín Orona – Mexican defender
- Kevin Picón – Young Mexican lateral returning from Real Sporting de Gijón
This season marks a fresh start for the team, which will miss veteran players such as:
- Bruno Barticciotto – Forward returning to Talleres de Córdoba
- Ronaldo Prieto – Versatile player now with Correcaminos
- Jordan Carrillo – Former midfielder now with Pumas
- Franco Fagúndez – Moving to Independiente de Santa Fe
- Ismael Govea – Released mid-tournament last season
Necaxa’s Preparations
Necaxa, coached by Martín Varini, has also revamped its squad. They acquired players such as:
- Lorenzo Faravelli – An experienced player from Cruz Azul
- Julián Carranza – Argentineimport
- Agustín Almendra – Argentine midfielder
- Kevin Gutiérrez – Argentine midfielder
However, the team will face challenges following the departures of:
- Díber Cambindo – Forward to León
- Agustín Palavecino – Midfielder to Máquina Celeste
Historical Context
Historically, the rivalry between Santos and Necaxa has seen a total of 36 matches since the 1988-89 season. The statistics reveal:
- Santos Laguna: 14 wins (59 goals scored, 56 conceded)
- Necaxa: 8 wins
- 14 draws
Recent encounters show Santos registered a victory in their last face-off at TSM, winning 3-2 during the Apertura 2024 season.
Key Player Highlight: Kevin Balanta
In a significant move, Santos has officially purchased Colombian defender Kevin Balanta, extending his contract until Clausura 2029. Balanta joined the team in Apertura 2025 and played 16 matches, delivering solid defensive performances.
His physical strength and leadership have made him an essential fixture for Santos, contributing to the team’s ambitions for the upcoming season.
