Manager Joel Huiqui is planning significant changes to the Cruz Azul starting lineup for Friday's match against Necaxa, as reported by Record MX on Tuesday. The team is going through a complicated period and urgently needs a victory to break a negative streak that has them in 12th place in Liga MX, with just 6 points from five games.
The pressure on Huiqui and his squad is palpable. Cruz Azul, champions of the Clausura 2026, has had a very irregular start to the Apertura tournament. Their current record is two wins and three losses, with eight goals scored and ten conceded. They also trail league leaders Club America by seven points. The last result, however, brought a breath of fresh air: a 1-3 victory over the same Necaxa on August 29th.
What changes is Huiqui planning?
The most notable return will be that of Amaury García, who would rejoin the starting lineup in midfield. The possible lineup being considered by the coaching staff, detailed by Record MX, includes Kevin Mier in goal. The defensive line would be composed of Willer Ditta, Jesús Orozco Chiquete, Omar Campos, and Rogelio González.
In the center of the park, alongside Amaury García, the names of José Paradela, Agustín Palavecino, Jeremy Márquez, and Charly Rodríguez are being considered. Up front, the responsibility for creating danger would fall to Nicolás Ibáñez. These adjustments aim to give the team a new impetus and find the solidity that has been lacking. The squad must also deal with the absences of Amaury Morales and Gonzalo Piovi, who are listed on our injuries page.
Why is this match key for Cruz Azul?
This duel against Necaxa represents a vital opportunity to change the dynamic. Cruz Azul's recent league form is concerning: a record of one win and four losses in their last five outings. Huiqui has acknowledged the team is under pressure and that a win is an absolute necessity. A good result would not only improve their position in the standings but also restore confidence to a dressing room accustomed to fighting for the top.
The victory in the last meeting with the Rayos should serve as a reference, but not as consolation. The team must show it can be consistent and translate that performance to the domestic competition. The closeness in the table with other rivals makes every point valuable at this stage of the championship.
What is the team's immediate outlook?
After Friday's clash, Cruz Azul will have a week to prepare for their next home match against Santos Laguna, scheduled for September 7th. Santos is currently in seventeenth place, presenting another opportunity to earn three points. This sequence of matches is a chance to get the season on track and start climbing the table.
The team's performance in the next two matchdays could define the tone for the rest of their Apertura 2026 campaign. With a quality squad, the objective remains to get into the playoff fight. Fans can follow the schedule evolution on our fixtures page. Huiqui's work in these days of preparation will be essential to correct the course and prove that this dip in form is just a parenthesis.
