Santos Laguna enters Apertura 2026 with 0 points, 0‑W‑0‑D‑4‑L and a 17th place in Liga MX, as Aleco Irarragorri issues a warning promising a historic comeback. The striker recalled Oribe Peralta's 2012 semifinal heroics against Tigres, emphasizing that the club must not accept that no one bets on them.
What did Aleco say?
Irarragorri told ESPN that the 2012 comeback, where Peralta scored two late goals to win 2‑0, mirrors the current team situation. "No one bet on us, but we showed we can change the game in the final minutes," he said, highlighting the need to believe within the squad.
How did Apertura 2026 start?
The first match against Rayados ended in a 3‑2 loss, exposing defensive frailties. In the second round, the visiting side won by the smallest margin at Estadio Corona, but the third date brought a 3‑0 defeat to the Águilas, leaving Santos Laguna winless with 2 goals scored and 8 conceded (-6 goal difference). The latest result was a 0‑1 loss to Guadalajara Chivas on 2026‑08‑17.
What does the next fixture mean?
Renato Paiva, the opponent's coach, will look for his first win against Chivas, while Santos Laguna prepares to face Puebla (away) on 2026‑08‑23, a club sitting 12th in the table. Pressure mounts as a five‑game losing streak (LLLLL) threatens the lagunero squad's morale.
What is the outlook?
Irarragorri insists the 2012 mindset can revive the project. He points out that internal confidence and the ability to turn matches around are essential to close the 10‑point gap with league leaders Club América. With the addition of Brian Rodríguez, Israel Reyes and debutant Alejandro Cárdenas, the team aims to turn the negative statistics into a series of wins that reshape the standings.
Bottom line: Irarragorri's warning is more than a motivational phrase; it is a call to action for Santos Laguna to convert its 17th place and goal deficit into a recovery story that inspires fans and the league.
