Guadalajara is beginning to take flight in the Apertura 2026. After five matchdays, the Rebaño boasts the fourth-best offense in the tournament and the third-best defense, numbers that reflect the team’s strong form.
At the start of the semester, Gabriel Milito has found different combinations and tools to shape an increasingly balanced Guadalajara side. That evolution was on full display in the 5-2 win over Xolos, when the Rebaño showed its attacking firepower and defensive solidity.
With that in mind, we take a look at the keys behind the Rebaño’s performance.
An Offense That Delivers
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Ricardo Marín and Roberto Alvarado have been two of the main protagonists of Guadalajara’s attack, with three goals each in the Apertura 2026. Both forwards have consistently delivered in front of goal, scoring important goals that have helped the Rebaño secure positive results.
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However, Guadalajara’s attacking power goes beyond its main offensive threats. Santiago Sandoval has also taken advantage of his opportunities to create danger and make his presence felt in the final third, while Hugo Camberoshas provided plenty of threat from the left wing within Milito’s system.
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In addition, Efraín Álvarez has been a key figure in providing Guadalajara with creativity and clarity in the final third.
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Even players whose primary responsibilities are not attacking, such as Diego Campillo, have already found the back of the net, showcasing the different options the Rebaño has to create danger and find goals.
Defensive Solidity
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The Rebaño has also found stability between the posts. In the first five matches of the Apertura 2026, Raúl ‘Tala’ Rangel has kept two clean sheets, providing confidence from the back for a Guadalajara side that has conceded just five goals.
Gabriel Milito’s Chivas Finding Balance
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The numbers make it clear that Guadalajara is finding an important balance at the start of the tournament: eight goals scored and just five conceded. That combination has placed the Rebaño fourth in the overall standings with 10 points and established the team as one of the league’s most competitive sides, with the potential to once again be a major force in the Apertura 2026.
