Defender Mauricio Cuevas outlined the keys for Santos Laguna to react after a tough start to the Liga MX Apertura 2026. In comments reported by El Siglo de Torreón, the player addressed the team's current situation and the upcoming match against Puebla this Saturday.
What did Cuevas say about the team's moment?
Mauricio Cuevas has started all four matches that Santos Laguna has lost to begin the tournament. He acknowledged that manager Renato Paiva's process has shown positive aspects, but admitted that small mistakes have been costly. "The challenge is to maintain concentration and keep working to turn good football passages into results," the defender stated. The team is urgently seeking its first point in the standings, where they currently sit in last place.
The player focused on the need to fine-tune defensive and offensive details to compete more consistently. From his perspective, every match must be approached with a final's mentality, demanding maximum effort from the first minute. This mindset will be tested at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc.
How are they preparing to face Puebla?
Cuevas analyzed the immediate rival. He highlighted that Puebla is a team with a vertical style that looks to create danger from the wings, so Santos must be prepared to counter those characteristics. However, the footballer made it clear that the main concern must be their own performance.
The Matchday 5 fixture represents a key opportunity to show evolution. A positive result could boost the team within a very tight table. The green-and-white squad believes they can correct the details that have prevented them from getting a result so far.
What role does confidence play in the dressing room?
Beyond tactics, Cuevas spoke about the internal atmosphere. He assured there is a shared belief in Renato Paiva's project and the daily work being done. The full-back recognized the historical importance of Santos Laguna and his personal desire to contribute to the club's return to the forefront.
Maintaining confidence will be essential to overcome the obstacles of the championship. Cuevas highlighted the commitment from all areas of the club, from the board to each player. This unity will be fundamental in a schedule where every matchday can make a big difference, as seen in the full list of fixtures.
What data supports the need for a reaction?
The start of the Apertura 2026 has been the most difficult in years for Santos Laguna. The team has failed to score a single goal in its first four outings, while conceding seven. This offensive drought contrasts with last season, where Argentine forward Juan Brunetta was one of the most decisive figures, scoring 11 goals in the Clausura 2025.
Cuevas's continuity is a relevant data point. The 27-year-old right-back is one of the players with the most minutes this campaign, showing the coaching staff's trust. His experience and that of other key elements, like goalkeeper Carlos Acevedo, will be vital to stabilize the team. The usual starting lineup can be checked on the squad page.
Santos Laguna will face Puebla this Saturday, September 5th at 7:00 PM at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc, looking to end the negative streak and earn their first points of the Apertura 2026.
