Raphael Veiga’s anticipated debut as a starter in the National Classic is postponed. Just moments before the match at Estadio Akron, Club América coach André Jardine revealed that the Brazilian signing would begin the game on the bench. Throughout the week, reports suggested that Veiga had trained with the first team, but Jardine opted for a tactical shift against Chivas.
Reasons for Veiga’s Bench Role
Raphael Veiga’s absence from the starting eleven is not due to a serious injury. Instead, it stems from a strategic decision based on two key factors:
- Intensity: Jardine chose to include young Isaías Violante in the role expected of Veiga. The coach believes a midfield with more dynamism and recovery capacity is crucial for winning the Classic on Chivas’ territory. Violante’s physical stamina is seen as essential for the early possession battle.
- Adaptation Process: Veiga, although a significant signing of the tournament, recently arrived in Mexico. His acclimatization to the altitude and pace of Liga MX remains a consideration. Jardine prefers to introduce him as a strategic substitute in the second half, when fatigue may allow Veiga to showcase his playmaking abilities.
Will Raphael Veiga Play Against Chivas?
Indications suggest that Veiga will participate in the second half. Jardine aims for Veiga to enter the match when it becomes more open, potentially making a decisive impact for Club América. Fans were eager to see their new star from the start but must remain patient as Veiga fully integrates into América’s system.
Club América’s Starting Lineup
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Malagon |
| Defenders | Álvarez, Cáceres, Reyes, Borja |
| Midfielders | Dourado, Dos Santos, Violante |
| Forwards | Dávila, Henry, Rodríguez |
Match Details
Teams: Chivas de Guadalajara vs Club América
Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
Location: Estadio Akron
Stadium Capacity: 49,850 spectators
Match Timings
- Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay: 00:00 hrs
- Bolivia, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Venezuela: 23:00 hrs
- Colombia, Peru, Panama, USA, Ecuador: 22:00 hrs
- Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras: 21:00 hrs
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