Toluca will host Santos Laguna this Sunday, April 6, at the Estadio Nemesio Diez, concluding Jornada 14 of the Clausura 2025 in Liga MX. The Diablos Rojos, managed by Antonio Mohamed, are currently sitting in second place with 27 points, just three behind league leaders América. The team has showcased impressive offensive prowess, scoring 33 goals in 13 matches, and they are determined to keep their championship hopes alive.
On the other hand, Santos Laguna finds themselves at the bottom of the table with a mere 7 points, facing almost insurmountable odds to qualify for the Play-In. The Guerreros come into this match after a narrow defeat to Atlético de San Luis, losing 3-2, and they are eager to avoid finishing last in the league for the second consecutive tournament.
The upcoming match is not just another fixture; it is a storied rivalry that resonates deeply with fans. The clash between the "Devil" and the "Saint" has produced memorable moments filled with glory and heartbreak. For the Toluca faithful, facing Santos is a chance to relive past triumphs, including a dramatic penalty shootout victory that remains etched in their memories. Conversely, Santos fans recall the bitter defeat in 2018 when their team lost a significant match at Toluca's home ground.
In their last five encounters, Toluca has secured three wins, while Santos has claimed victory twice. However, the most recent meeting in the Apertura 2024 saw Santos triumph with a 2-0 scoreline, a result that surprised many given their current form. The match will be officiated by referee Luis Santander Aguirre.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, Toluca's lineup is expected to feature Pau López in goal, supported by a defensive line of Jesús Gallardo, Federico Pereira, Bruno Méndez, and Diego Barbosa. The midfield will likely include Héctor Herrera, Juan Domínguez, and Marcel Ruiz, alongside forwards Alexis Vega and Paulinho, who are both vying for the top scorer title with nine goals each.
Santos Laguna, under the guidance of Fernando "Tano" Ortiz, will aim to field their best squad, including Carlos Acevedo as goalkeeper and a backline composed of Emmanuel Echeverría, Geovanni Pérez, Edson Gutiérrez, and Javier Abella. The midfield will see Javier Guémez and Aldo López, while Ramiro Sordo, Fran Villalba, Cristian Dájome, and Bruno Barticciotto lead the attack.
With the match set to kick off at 18:00 hours (Central Mexico Time), fans can catch the action live on Canal 5, TUDN, and ViX Premium. The stakes are high for both teams: Toluca is looking to solidify their position for a direct playoff spot, while Santos is desperate to salvage some pride and avoid a last-place finish.
The unpredictability of Liga MX adds an exciting layer to this matchup, making it a must-watch for fans. As both sides gear up for battle, the anticipation builds—will Toluca continue their pursuit of the top, or can Santos pull off a shocking upset in the "Inferno"?
As the clock ticks down to match time, the atmosphere is charged with excitement. This rivalry is not just about points; it's about history, pride, and the unyielding spirit of competition. The Diablos Rojos and the Guerreros will clash once again, and the outcome remains uncertain as they prepare to write another chapter in their storied rivalry.
