Cruz Azul’s Probable Starting Lineup Against Puebla Revealed

In an exciting matchup on Saturday night, Cruz Azul will face Puebla in the third round of the Clausura 2026. The game will take place at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc, with both teams aiming for a strong start after securing three points each from their first two matches.

Cruz Azul’s Probable Starting Lineup Against Puebla

Cruz Azul is coming off a solid 2-0 victory over Atlas in their previous match. Coach Nicolás Larcamón has implemented tactical changes that allowed the team to regain their winning momentum. The squad’s defensive strategies are crucial as they look to maintain a secure backline.

Expected Formation

• Goalkeeper: Andrés Gudiño
• Defenders:
  • Willer Ditta (DFC) – A strong physical presence in defense.
  • Erik Lira (DFC) – Plays as a tactical libero, ensuring clean ball distribution.
  • Gonzalo Piovi (DFC) – Offers a left-footed outlet for initiating attacks.
• Wingbacks:
  • Jorge Sánchez (CAD) – Provides width and offensive support on the right.
  • Carlos Rodolfo Rotondi (CAI) – Acts as a box-to-box midfielder with defensive and offensive duties.
• Midfielders:
  • Jeremy Márquez (MC) – Responsible for fluidity and connectivity in midfield.
  • Agustín Palavecino (MC) – Known for his dynamism and vision.
  • Carlos Rodríguez (MCO) – The tactical brain of the team, crucial in the final third.
  • José Paradela (MCO) – Adds creativity and goal-scoring opportunities.
• Forward: Gabriel Fernández (DC) – The primary target in the attack, leveraging his physical strength.

Puebla’s Strengths

Puebla will present a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing an offensive approach. The team will look to control the midfield and exploit the speed of their wingers to counter Cruz Azul’s defenses.

Puebla’s Expected Formation

• Goalkeeper: Daniel Gutiérrez
• Defenders:
  • Fernando Monárrez
  • Eduardo Navarro
  • Nicolás Díaz
  • Brayan Garnica
• Midfielders:
  • Carlos Baltazar
  • Luis Rey
  • Alejandro Organista
• Forwards:
  • Emiliano Gómez
  • Esteban Lozano
  • Edgar Guerra

Cruz Azul enters the match as the favorite due to their recent form and home advantage. However, Puebla’s elevated morale and readiness to stun their opponents could make for a compelling contest in the capital.