Categories: Sports

Former Atlas defender Mario Mendez shares thoughts on Clasico Tapatio rivalry

Former Atlas defender Mario Mendez recently opened up about the Clasico Tapatio, a local rivalry between two of the biggest football clubs in Guadalajara: Atlas and Chivas. In an interview, Mendez shared his thoughts about the rivalry, his experience playing in the Clasico, and the upcoming match between the two teams.

A family divided by passion for different teams

Mendez’s family is divided between Chivas and Atlas fans due to his uncle’s debut for Chivas. Mendez and his younger cousins support Atlas while the older generation supports Chivas. Despite the family split, Mendez says that the rivalry is only sporting and never gets out of hand among its members.

The intensity of Clasico Tapatio

Losing or winning the Clasico determines the pride or mockery the fans will show before and after the game. Mendez always lived the Clasico rivalry to the fullest and experienced it as a child and as a professional player. The Clasico Tapatio is considered one of the oldest classicos in Mexico.

Playing for other teams

Mendez never played for Chivas but says that the issue of playing for another team never came up because you never know where fate will take you. He respects Huesos Reyes’ opinion of rather retiring than playing for Chivas.

Memories from playing against Chivas

Mendez mentions some of the Chivas players he found difficult to mark during his playing career. He recalls feeling a rush of adrenaline every time he played against them.

Preview and predictions for upcoming match

Looking ahead to an exciting weekend in Liga MX Clausura 2021, Atlas face off against Guadalajara in Clásico Tapatío. Atlas are four points away from securing a spot in the playoffs, while Guadalajara are almost certain to enter the playoffs but can move up in the standings with a win. Atlas recently had a strong win against Puebla, while Guadalajara lost to Club America. Both teams have something to play for, making for an interesting match.

The significance of the upcoming match

Atlas is no longer the dominant team they were a few seasons ago, but they are recovering. Guadalajara can’t take Atlas lightly, as they are a confident team at the moment and a loss could cost them their playoff spot. Guadalajara have won more of their previous matches against Atlas, but there have been many red cards between the two teams.

Predictions for match day 13

The Jalisco derby will see Chivas face Atlas in Guadalajara. Chivas need a win to boost their chances of securing a top four spot while Atlas is having an indifferent campaign and holds the 12th position. Pumas appointed Antonio Mohamed as head coach to secure a top 12 finish and maintain post-season push. Gallos Blancos are just two points off 12th place despite enduring another poor season. Bottom side Mazatlán is still mathematically in with a chance of progressing to post-season. Red Devils from Toluca face Tigres UANL in a tough fight to secure top four berths while León and América face each other in a battle for top-four finish with three points currently separating them.

Predictions for each match: Atlas 1-2 Chivas, Queretaro 0-1 Pumas, Atlético San Luis 1-1 Mazatlán, Toluca 0-0 Tigres, America 1-1 Leon.

In conclusion, fans across Mexico are eagerly waiting for Clasico Tapatio this weekend. While Guadalajara are currently in better form, Atlas can never be counted out when it comes to local derbies. This weekend is set to be another intense and exciting chapter in the longstanding history of Mexico’s Clasico Tapatio rivalry.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Brandon Craig

Brandon Craig is a passionate journalist with expertise in writing all types of news articles. With years of experience in the industry, Brandon has a keen eye for detail, and a talent for finding the most newsworthy stories. He has published articles on a range of topics, including politics, health, and entertainment, and strives to provide readers with accurate, unbiased reporting. When he's not writing, Brandon enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures.

Recent Posts

Thousands to Participate in Belfast City Marathon Despite Road Closures

Belfast City Marathon 2023 Road Closures ConfirmedBelfast City Marathon organizers have confirmed the details of…

2 years ago

Fowler Native Adysen Koenigsknecht Overcomes Battle with Celiac Disease to Run Boston Marathon

Adysen Koenigsknecht's Remarkable Journey to the Boston MarathonAdysen Koenigsknecht has come a long way since…

2 years ago

ESPN Anchor John Anderson to Lead Boston Marathon Broadcast

Anderson's Passion for Track and Field Leads to Boston Marathon RoleESPN's SportsCenter anchor John Anderson…

2 years ago

Seth Rollins appeals to fans for help in funding friend’s lung transplant surgery

Seth Rollins, WWE superstar and former Universal Champion, has appealed to his fans for support…

2 years ago

2023 Boston Marathon to Showcase Elite Runners and Star-Studded Celebrities

The 2023 Boston Marathon is gearing up to be a historic event, as it will…

2 years ago

Community of Golden Retrievers Honors Spencer and Penny, the Beloved Boston Marathon Dogs

A Heartwarming Tribute to Spencer and PennyA group of golden retrievers participated in a touching…

2 years ago