Liga MX Clausura Matchday 1 Betting Favorites

Last Updated on January 8, 2026 5:46 pm by Erwin Noguera

Liga MX Clausura 2026 Matchday 1 kicks off as teams across Mexico begin a new tournament with fresh ambitions and clean slates.

The Clausura 2026 officially kicks off with Matchday 1, marking the return of Liga MX action after the offseason. This opening round is defined by anticipation rather than the standings, as traditional contenders strive to establish an early advantage, while teams in the rebuilding phase aim to surprise their opponents and build momentum.

At Gambyl Exchange, you can explore all the predictions for the Liga MX Clausura 2026, the final bets for this Matchday, and the odds for each match.

Liga MX Clausura Weekly Pick Betting Odds

Liga MX Clausura Matchday 1: Club América vs. Tijuana

América, one of Liga MX’s most decorated clubs, enters the Clausura 2026 with renewed urgency. After falling short of silverware in 2025, the Azulcremas moved decisively in the transfer window. Their marquee addition is Brazilian midfielder Rodrigo Dourado, a defensive anchor who arrives from Atlético de San Luis and brings Liga MX experience and stability to the middle of the park.

Tijuana, on the other hand, has been resilient at home, showcasing attacking options that can trouble defenses on the break. They’ve also moved on to the transfer window. On one hand, there is Ignacio Rivero, who returns after four and a half years at Cruz Azul for his second spell at “La Perrera.” On the other hand, Josef Martínez arrives—a 32-year-old Venezuelan striker with more than a decade of experience in Europe and the United States.

Tijuana vs. Club América Betting Pick: Club América

Liga MX Clausura Matchday 1: Chivas vs. Pachuca

Chivas have long been one of Mexico’s most popular teams, but have struggled to turn strong regular seasons into titles. Heading into Clausura 2026, “El Rebaño Sagrado” made several important moves. The club added attacking options like Brian Gutierrez, Ricardo Marin, and Angel Sepulveda, while seeing Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez depart and several older squad members leave.

Pachuca remains one of Liga MX’s most tactically disciplined sides, relying on youth development rather than star power. Los Tuzos reinforced their midfield with young domestic talent and retained the core that made them difficult to break down in the previous tournament. Their ability to control tempo and punish mistakes makes them a dangerous opening-day opponent, especially against a Chivas side still searching for cohesion.

Chivas vs. Pachuca Betting Pick: Draw

Liga MX Clausura Matchday 1: Monterrey vs. Toluca

One of the most anticipated matches of matchday 1 sees Monterrey host reigning champions Toluca in a fixture with immediate title implications. Rayados have invested heavily once again, highlighted by the signing of Lucas Orellano, who adds creativity and verticality to an already dangerous attack. Monterrey’s home form remains a major weapon, and expectations are high for them to translate regular-season consistency into championship success.

Toluca arrives carrying the confidence of a consecutive title and remarkable tactical stability under Antonio Mohamed. The Diablos kept the spine of their championship squad intact while adding depth in midfield, ensuring they can maintain their high-intensity style. Historically strong starters, Toluca will look to assert dominance early against a direct rival in what could become a recurring postseason matchup.

Monterrey vs. Toluca Betting Pick: Monterrey

Liga MX Clausura Matchday 1: San Luis vs. Tigres

Tigres open their Clausura against San Luis, a fixture that presents a different type of challenge compared to facing the league’s traditional elite. San Luis has developed a reputation for physical resilience and disciplined defensive organization, making them tough to break down, particularly at home. Their compact shape and counterattacking intent could test Tigres’ buildup play early.

Tigres enter the Clausura with continuity rather than reinvention, choosing to maintain the core of their squad rather than undergo a major overhaul. This continuity provides stability but puts the focus on in-season development and sharpening under pressure. Their attacking threats and experience should give them an edge, but San Luis’ defensive discipline and home support make this an early test.

San Luis vs. Tigres Betting Pick: Tigres