Atlante returns to Liga MX against Necaxa in the Apertura 2026

Return of the MX League with controversy

At the start of Apertura 2026, Tigres already set a record: the first expulsion for applying the Prestianni Law. Rodrigo Aguirre was sent to the showers for intentionally covering his mouth during an altercation with rivals in the match against Xolos at the Caliente stadium.

The game, played on Thursday night, had a tense moment near the end of the first half. An argument arose between players from both teams, but it did not escalate. However, when everything seemed calm, “Búfalo” Aguirre covered his mouth to say something to Alejandro Gómez. Referee Iván Tona observed the action and reported to the center back, who after consulting the VAR decided to send off the forward.

Liga MX confirmed on social networks:

“After a VAR review, the central referee sends off Rodrigo Aguirre for intentionally covering his mouth while arguing with an opponent.”

This sanction is based on the Prestianni Law, which seeks to avoid insults or provocations by hiding the mouth. Thus, Tigres becomes the first club to suffer this measure on the opening day.

Keylor Navas, former Costa Rican goalkeeper and World Cup figure, shared his vision of the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. The three-time World Cup winner with Costa Rica believes it will be a “very beautiful” duel between two high-level teams.

No clear favorite

“For those of us who like soccer, it is an incredible final. I cannot give anyone as a favorite; a final is a final and it is very difficult to decide,” Navas said. The former Real Madrid goalkeeper highlighted that Spain improved after an irregular start, while Argentina showed character with comebacks.

“Argentina had games in overtime and comebacks. That speaks of character, unity and the desire to win,” he added.

The Messi factor

Although the balance does not tip, Navas pointed out a plus for Argentina: Lionel Messi. “If I had to say a favorite… Argentina has Messi, that can make the difference. But you never know, the games have to be played and I hope the best wins,” he said.

Regarding Messi at 39 years old, Navas said that he is not surprised: “I had the privilege of being with him at PSG. He is an example to follow: talent, character, discipline. Age is just a number. He can reach 40 or 41 playing like this.”

Navas regretted that it is Messi’s last World Cup. “Let’s be grateful to see a monster play. He’s from another level, one of those who rarely come out,” he concluded.

Sergio “Checo” Pérez will not be able to be in the stadium, but his mind is already set on the decisive match of the 2026 World Cup. The Mexican Formula 1 driver shared his opinion about the Final between Spain and Argentina on July 19 in New York.

The dilemma of the Mexican pilot

“Difficult. The truth is that I have a very great connection with Spain. I spend a good time there, with my family every year. I have a lot of affection for Spain,” declared the Jalisco native from the Belgian Grand Prix.

His link with Argentina also weighs. “For Argentina too, for (Lionel) Messi, the best player in history. I would love to see him win… the truth is that it is difficult to choose one. I think whoever it is will be a very good winner,” he added about the soccer star.

The Cadillac steering wheel considers that both finalists deserve to be there. “They both deserve to be in the Final, I think we are going to see the best game of the World Cup and I think it is the most interesting thing of the weekend,” he concluded with a laugh.

Checo, who has spent long periods in Spain due to his family and professional commitments, recognizes that the Final will be the most attractive sporting event of the weekend. His statement reflects the affection he feels for both teams, although his heart seems to lean towards Lionel Messi, whom he described as the best footballer in history.