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Liga MX: America faces rocky road to 14th league title

By Thomas Buckley

America players pose before their match against Tijuana on Jan. 24. The game ended in a scoreless draw (Photo by Gonzalo Gonzalez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
America players pose before their match against Tijuana on Jan. 24. The game ended in a scoreless draw (Photo by Gonzalo Gonzalez/Jam Media/Getty Images) /
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Giovani Dos Santos smiles during America’s season-opening win over the Tigres on Jan. 18. Gio is striving to prove he deserves a starting spot with the Aguilas. (Photo by Mauricio Salas/Jam Media/Getty Images) /

Veteran and rookie strive to prove they belong in America

Despite the injuries and absences, coach Herrera has talent at his disposal though two players in particular must prove they are up to the task.

Last summer, America garnered plenty of headlines by signing Giovani dos Santos. The former golden boy had hit the skids and was cut by the L.A. Galaxy in the spring. Gio had spent his entire career in Europe before moving to MLS in 2015, but never truly lived up to his potential.

Herrera and the Aguilas are eager to show that they did not waste big money and will give Gio every opportunity to show he still has it early in the season. So far this season, although he has not stumbled, he has not provided fireworks either. Still, he provided the assist for the lone goal América has scored through two matches.

At the back, 19-year-old Haret Ortega has been slotted in as the right central defender in Herrera’s 5-man back line. The lanky teen has been steady and is helped by the fact that he is flanked by veteran defenders. The youngster was voted Man of the Match after the club’s 0-0 draw in Tijuana.

Newcomer Alonso Escoboza – acquired from Querétaro – has won a spot in midfield but will likely be challenged by Córdova once the latter is deemed fit for duty. Escoboza, 27, had a breakout season with the Gallos Blancos after coach Víctor Manuel Vucetich moved him from midfield to left back, but Herrera is satisfied with his performance on the left side.

Other new signings are still working their way up the pecking order.

Midfielder Leo Suárez arrived from Villarreal and he was effective against Tijuana in directing the offense and linking up with the forwards.

Next. The incredible stumble of Super Chivas. dark

Veteran defender Luis Fuentes (purchased from Tijuana) provides depth and 20-year-old defender Sebastián Cáceres is with compatriot Viñas at the Conmebol Olympics qualifying tournament.

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