Necaxa (home)
- They have failed to win their last five games, conceding multiple goals in four of those matches, and appear to be vulnerable defensively with their pressing having been bypassed on several occasions in recent games.
- Diber Cambindo has been their main goal threat this Clausura, getting on the end of limited service and using his strength to get chances in the penalty area.
- But Necaxa are struggling to deliver him the service he needs right now and Julián Carranza has chipped in with some important goals.
Tijuana (away)
- Xolos’ recent 3-0 away win at Leon may have triggered a revival in their fortunes and confidence that could be sustained on Saturday if they can grab a few goals against a leaky Necaxa defense.
- They are a tough, tough team to play against because of their willingness to sit deep and their ability to transition quickly to attack with direct play from the wide areas.
- Sebastián ‘Loco’ Abreu’s pragmatic approach has been bolstered by the availability of Frank Boya, who is a physical presence in midfield and gets up and down to score a few and prevent a few.
- The only concern for Tijuana is that teenage playmaker Gilberto Mora, who is a dynamic presence when fit, has a groin strain that might keep him out or hamper his ability to contribute this weekend.
Head-to-Head
The last five Liga MX clashes between these clubs have been split evenly, with four of the last five being decided by a single goal.
Key Players
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Tijuana:
- Frank Boya, who is a physical presence in midfield and gets up and down to score a few and prevent a few.
- Gilberto Mora, who is a dynamic presence when fit, has a groin strain that might keep him out or hamper his ability to contribute this weekend.
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Necaxa:
- Diber Cambindo has been their main goal threat this Clausura, getting on the end of limited service and using his strength to get chances in the penalty area.
- Julián Carranza has chipped in with some important goals.
Betting Insights
- The odds are slightly in favor of Necaxa at 2.24 but Tijuana are at an enticing 2.9 that makes us think this is going to be a close contest.
- Over 2.5 goals is at 1.65.
Prediction
- The weather at Estadio Victoria should be dry and comfortable on Saturday, providing conditions for an open game in which both sides can get the ball forward at each other.
- Models are slightly in favour of Tijuana to nick the win in a low-scoring game, but a draw or a narrow Necaxa win are also possible outcomes if Cambindo or Carranza can get enough space in the second half.
