As America and Rayados gear up for their fifth-round clash in the Clausura 2026, both teams are set to face considerable obstacles with significant player departures that may influence the outcome of this important fixture. The current performance and past encounters of both teams suggest these absences could impact their tactical approaches and effectiveness on the pitch.
America will be missing two vital players for this matchup. Álvaro Fidalgo, a key figure in their midfield, has transferred to Real Betis in Spain. Fidalgo’s contribution during his tenure at America is noteworthy, with 195 appearances in Liga MX, including 41 playoff appearances and 16 in international games. His record of 20 goals in league play and one in the Concacaf Champions Cup underscores his importance to the team.
Another significant absence for America is Allan Saint-Maximin, the French winger who departed just five months after joining the club. His exit was attributed to personal reasons unrelated to the sport. During his brief stint, Saint-Maximin made 15 appearances, scoring three goals and providing two assists.
On the other side, Rayados is also grappling with major departures. Sergio Ramos, a crucial defender who joined the club in February 2025, has left after serving as a leader on the field and representing the team in the FIFA Club World Cup. Unfortunately, he could not secure a title before moving on after the Apertura 2025. Additionally, Germán Berterame has transferred to Inter Miami, joining forces with Lionel Messi. Berterame ranks among Rayados’ top scorers with 68 goals, surpassing the esteemed Guillermo Franco, making his loss a significant blow to the team’s attacking options.
Both teams are currently positioned closely on the league table, with Monterrey in sixth place and America at ninth. Securing a favorable result is crucial for both squads, as they seek to enhance their standings in the league.
With these notable absences, the pressure mounts on America and Rayados to adapt and find effective strategies to compensate for the loss of their key players. As they prepare to face off in this critical match, both teams must navigate the challenges ahead, raising the question: which team’s resilience will shine brighter despite their missing talents?