If one thing became clear in Matchday 1 of the Clausura 2026, it is that Gabriel Milito’s Chivas will continue to be a protagonist team, hungry for victory and, above all, with plenty of tools to hurt their opponents. The win against Pachuca left many aspects to analyze, as the Rebaño delivered a strong overall performance; however, on this occasion we will focus on one key name: Daniel Aguirre.
Guadalajara’s No. 23 not only stood out for his goal late in the first half, but also for his very solid overall display, both on the ball and in defensive phases.
As has been customary since Milito took charge of the Rebaño Sagrado, Aguirre started as the right center-back in a back three. As is well known, his role within the structure is not necessarily that of a conventional defender, since he constantly pushes to the byline to provide depth or to draw opposing markers.
Chivas showed a very aggressive version against the Tuzos, mainly through combinations down the right flank, with Ledezma providing width, Alvarado and Brian Gutiérrez operating inside, and Daniel Aguirre arriving as a surprise option. Thanks to the partnerships and passing circuits built by these players in that area, the rojiblanco side displayed notable fluidity on Matchday 1.
‘Dani’ was very alert in attacking the space behind the defensive line, compensating movements and supporting all of his teammates, without neglecting his duties at the back, where he showed good judgment to anticipate and win several balls from the Hidalgo side’s attackers.
On the goal, he recognized that Pachuca’s far post was vulnerable, so he attacked it with aggression and excellent technique to send Efraín Álvarez’s superb delivery into the back of the net, sealing Guadalajara’s victory and scoring his second goal in the shirt of the team he loves.
Daniel Aguirre is an all-action midfielder currently disguised as a center-back, who also operates as a full-back and, at times, as a midfielder—always making good decisions depending on what each play requires of him.
Daniel Aguirre’s numbers vs Pachuca
- 90 minutes played
- 1 goal scored
- 3 interceptions
- 2 recoveries
- 2 key passes
- 53 accurate passes (97% accuracy)
- 4 successful long passes
