In the final match of the Regular Season of the CL26, Guadalajara played out a scoreless draw against Xolos in a game where they dictated the tempo and created the clearest chances of the night. After the match, Gabriel Milito analyzed his team’s performance and emphasized the playing identity shown throughout the 90 minutes, as well as the constant intent to push forward.
The Rojiblanco coach made it clear that, despite the result, the team remains calm about the tournament they delivered and focused on what lies ahead, with their sights set on the Liguilla and the conviction to compete at the highest level to make a mark in the Final Phase.
The team competed until the end
* “The team had a very good tournament; we finished in second place due to goal difference. We could have been first, but we lacked the finishing touch we usually have. We had chances to win both matches and didn’t, although the team maintained the same style of play.”
* “I take away the courage and the intention to win every match. Today we didn’t achieve it due to a lack of efficiency, because the team pushed for it at all times. It’s difficult when the opponent sits deep, but we created very clear chances; that was the difference.”
* “There were no major differences compared to other matches. Against Puebla, for example, we scored five goals with the same playing intention. Today we simply weren’t clinical.”
A solid tournament that builds confidence heading into the Liguilla
* “I feel calm about what the players did. They tried, they performed very well, and now it’s time to prepare for a new stage, which is different due to the knockout format.”
* “There is no discouragement; quite the opposite. We are calm about the campaign we had—it was very good. We achieved the objective of finishing in the top four. We could have been leaders and deserved it, but football is not about deserving, it’s about what happens on the pitch.”
* “I’m very satisfied and very confident about what’s ahead.”
* “As long as we generate dominance, good play, and chances, we are on the right path. You should worry when you don’t play well, don’t shoot on goal, or can’t impose your game, and that hasn’t happened to us.”
The Liguilla: a different tournament, the same ambition
* “At this stage, there are no easy matches; they are all true finals. You face the best teams in Mexican football.”
* “With the players available, we will approach the series with ambition and the belief that we can perform well and advance to the semifinals.”
* “We will play the Final Phase trying to impose our game, deliver a very strong series, and secure qualification.”
Full confidence in the squad and the young players
* “We have very good young players. When I felt we needed their contribution, I included them. They must go through their process and gain experience, but I trust in their freshness, their desire to make a mark, and their qualities.”
* “We have a balanced squad, with experience and youth, which gives me great confidence.”
* “In these playoffs we will need everyone, and they are ready. I fully trust what this team is capable of.”
* “The group has a strong mentality and great belief. We will adapt to the circumstances and compete with the ambition to win, as always.”
Unshaken belief in the ultimate goal
* “The players have always competed with the same conviction, passion, and the desire to put Chivas at the top.”
* “We had a very good campaign, and qualifying early for the quarterfinals carries great value.”
Full press conference from Gabriel Milito:
