Big nights demand big performances. And in El Clásico de México, Diego Campillo rose to the occasion, taking on the challenging task of replacing captain Luis Romo. The Cantera Rojiblanca product displayed the personality required for this kind of clash against the fiercest rival, stepping in as a libero and delivering a top-class performance both defensively and on the ball.
His impact was immediate. Strong in duels, physical in one-on-one battles, and impeccable in his reading of the game, he helped 'Tala' Rangel and the rest of the back line preserve a clean sheet against their biggest rival. In 85 minutes, he recorded 8 clearances, 6 recoveries, and won 4 aerial duels. He was not dribbled past a single time. Absolute security.
But his performance wasn’t limited to defending—he also built from the back. With 55 accurate passes (93% completion rate), Campillo was a clean link in the team’s buildup and confidently stepped into the opponent’s half with purpose. In fact, the match’s only goal started through him: he attacked the near post and, following a superb delivery from Efraín Álvarez, flicked the ball on to set up Armando González’s decisive finish. He also added a key pass in what was a complete performance.
The fans voted him Man of the Match, and the metrics supported that choice. He was arguably the standout player of the night. And it’s no coincidence. Campillo has shown he can perform wherever Gabriel Milito needs him—whether as a libero, stopper, fullback, or even midfielder. His growth is not only physical and technical; it is mental and tactical as well.
Replacing such an important figure as Romo on a stage like El Clásico de México was no simple task. Campillo handled it with personality, composure, and game intelligence.
Chivas won, maintained their perfect run in the tournament, remain sole leaders of the Clausura 2026, and found in Diego Campillo a player who once again proved he is ready to step up wherever required. For the second consecutive tournament, Guadalajara’s number 19 delivered a strong showing against their fiercest rival—just as he did a few months ago at Ciudad de los Deportes.
