Sebastián Jurado says FC Juárez go into their Apertura 2026 opener against Club Puebla with confidence, but also with the sense that the real work starts now. The Bravos captain described the mood as positive after a strong preseason and made clear that the team is focused on getting the first result right at the Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez.
Jurado spoke in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, on 16 de julio de 2026, ahead of Jornada 1. For FC Juárez, it is the start of a new tournament, but also the beginning of a run that will include a Leagues Cup commitment in August, which makes the opening weeks feel especially important.
A positive preseason, but no room to relax
Jurado’s main message was that the squad has arrived with good rhythm. He said the group completed a strong preseason, with favourable results not only in the preparation matches but also from the first day of work. He also stressed that the squad already understands what the coach is asking for, which has helped build motivation and commitment.
That matters because early-season matches often turn on sharpness as much as structure. Jurado’s view is that FC Juárez have done the hard work already, but they now have to turn that into points once the league starts for real.
Why Club Puebla still demands caution
Jurado was also clear that Club Puebla are not arriving as simple visitors. He described them as a dynamic side, one that has been analysed through their preseason matches and now looks different under a new coach. In his assessment, Puebla want to play football, build from the back and attack with intention.
He pointed to Kevin Velasco and Emiliano Gómez as players with quality and the ability to make the difference. That is why Jurado said FC Juárez must be careful, fix their weak spots and, above all, make the most of their strengths at home.
Home support could set the tone
There is also a wider point behind Jurado’s comments. FC Juárez are not only thinking about the league opener, but about sustaining momentum across two competitions. He said the club has a double commitment, with Liga MX the immediate priority and the Leagues Cup waiting in August.
Still, his message was to keep things simple: one match at a time, starting with Puebla. He also highlighted the connection with the city, saying the team wants to feel the stadium fuller and believes the support of their fans can help a great deal.
For FC Juárez, that makes Jornada 1 about more than just a first result. It is a chance to show that the preseason optimism can hold up under pressure, and that the Bravos can begin Apertura 2026 with the same energy Jurado says has driven them so far.
