Chivas Fall 1-0 to León in Apertura 2025 Debut
Guadalajara lost 1-0 to León at Nou Camp in their Apertura 2025 opener. James Rodríguez scored the game-winning goal from the penalty spot.
A Bitter Start for the Rebaño
Chivas kicked off their Apertura 2025 campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to León at Nou Camp. Despite dominating possession and physical effort throughout much of the match, a controversial second-half decision ultimately tipped the scale in favor of the home side. James Rodríguez calmly converted a penalty in the 65th minute after Erick Gutiérrez was called for a foul on Ettson Ayón inside the box.
Milito Debuts with Adjusted Lineup
In his first official Liga MX match as Chivas’ head coach, Gabriel Milito opted for a reinforced defensive structure, starting two of the team’s new signings: Bryan González at left back and Richard Ledezma at right back. The defense remained steady for most of the match, but Guadalajara lacked attacking sharpness in the final third.
In the second half, Milito made offensive changes, introducing Efraín Álvarez and Diego Campillo. Álvarez, wearing the number 10 jersey, was the most threatening player on the pitch and came close to equalizing with a shot that rattled the crossbar.
The Penalty That Changed It All
The game remained tightly contested in the midfield until a pivotal moment in the 59th minute. Following a VAR review, the referee determined that Gutiérrez committed a foul inside the area. James Rodríguez stepped up and buried the penalty, sending Raúl Rangel the wrong way and securing the victory for León.
Debuts and Comebacks for Chivas
In addition to González and Ledezma, both Diego Campillo and Efraín Álvarez made their first appearances for Chivas in the second half. Another notable moment came with Daniel Aguirre’s long-awaited debut for the first team. Aguirre, who joined the club ahead of the Apertura 2024 season, finally saw action as one of the three starting center backs alongside Luis Romo and José Castillo.
What’s Next?
For Chivas: Guadalajara will return to action on Saturday, July 26, when they host Atlético de San Luis at Estadio Akron, marking their first home game of the season following stadium renovations.
For León: León will travel to face Cruz Azul at Estadio Olímpico Universitario on the same date for their first road match of the tournament.