Liga MX: Aguilas, Cementeros top Power Rankings

Aggrieved Bravos, rising Rayos top list of also-rans

These six teams can still entertain Liguilla dreams, but their shortcomings – and some hard luck – might conspire against them.

13. FC Juárez

5 points, 5 GF, 7 GA

The hard-luck Bravos have legitimate gripes about the officiating after getting screwed against the Pumas (two red cards and two penalties with the second one being overturned by VAR), then suffered from a weak penalty call against the Chivas last week. Coach Gabriel Caballero has his team playing hard, but they miss striker Diego Rolán whose loan deal from Deportivo la Coruña was not renewed. The addition of former Mexico star Marco Fabián should help.

14. Necaxa

5 points, 1-2-2, 3 GF, 6 GA

The Rayos stumbled out of the gate, but regained their footing against América on Matchday 3. The club picked up 5 points during the recent three-game crunch and might start rounding into shape such that they can chase a wildcard spot. Replacing scoring machine Mauro Quiroga will be a tough task, but Luis Malagón has been exceptional in goal replacing Mexico international Hugo González who left for Monterrey.

15. Atlético de San Luis

5 points, 1-2-2, 7 GF, 7 GA

The Tuneros appear to be lumbering giants, slow to change direction and slow to react. Coach “Memo” Vázquez has not been able to instill his vertical tactical mentality in his players and the Mauro Quiroga-Nicolás Ibáñez strike partnership looks like a poor match.

16. Mazatlán FC

5 points, 1-2-2, 4 GF, 7 GA

The former Monarcas of Morelia are adjusting to new coach Francisco Palencia but seem unsettled by their new surroundings. The departure of defenders “Shaggy” Martínez and Sebastián Vegas, coupled with the change in goal (Miguel Ángel Fraga displaced Sebastián Sosa) has impacted the dynamic transition play that sparked the Monarcas to the semifinals a year ago.

17. Tijuana

4 points, 4 GF, 9 GA

The Xolos were very active in the transfer market and got rave reviews for the acquisitions. They also swiped coach Pablo Guede from Morelia so pundits had this team as a legitimate playoff contender. But as is so often true after a significant roster overhaul, the transition has been difficult.

18. Atlas

2 points, 0-2-3, 4 GF, 8 GA

This proud franchise is a complete mess. The Zorros are last in the relegation standings (fortunately, this will not result in demotion, but it will require a 120 million-peso fee). Coach Rafa Puente, Jr., was fired after Matchday 3 and Diego Cocca takes over this weekend. He’ll have two months to prepare for the only game that matters – the Clásico Tapatío in Estadio Akron on Oct. 17.