Mexican Soccer: From World Cup Goodbye to Apertura 2026 Kickoff

What Happened at the World Cup?

Imagine the biggest soccer tournament in the world, where countries compete to be the number one team. That’s the World Cup! Nearly a week ago, Mexico’s national team said goodbye to the 2026 World Cup. They lost in the "Round of 16" (think of it like a top-16 knockout round where if you lose, you go home) to England. This match took place at the famous CDMX Stadium in Mexico City.

But Mexican soccer fans are super passionate! They are already turning the page and looking forward to the next big event at home.

Looking Ahead to Apertura 2026

The Apertura 2026 is a part of the Liga MX (Mexico’s top professional soccer league — basically the biggest and most exciting soccer competition in the country). Last time around, the team Cruz Azul won the championship (we can call this "the crown"), and now they want to win again to defend their title!

The league has officially shared the game calendar (like a schedule for the whole season). Here is what you need to know:

• The soccer action kicks off on Thursday, July 16.
• The very first game features the long-awaited return of Atlante to the "first division" (the top level of play) — this is a huge deal for their fans!
• Another exciting opening match is between Tijuana (also called Xolos) and Tigres.

Important: Don’t forget July 16! That’s when the new season starts with Atlante’s big return and a Tijuana vs. Tigres face-off.

The Big Rivalry Games (Clásicos)

In soccer, some teams have a long history of competing against each other, and fans get extra excited. These matches are called Clásicos (which just means "classics" or big rivalry games). Everyone wants to know when these are happening! Here is the full list of dates and stadiums for the Apertura 2026 rivalry games:

• Cruz Azul vs. América — Estadio Banorte — September 12
• Monterrey vs. Tigres — Estadio BBVA — September 13
• Chivas vs. Pumas — Estadio Akron — September 13
• América vs. Chivas — Estadio Banorte — September 19
• Atlas vs. Chivas — Estadio Jalisco — October 10
• Pumas vs. Cruz Azul — Estadio Olímpico Universitario — October 11
• Pumas vs. América — Estadio Olímpico Universitario — November 7
• Chivas vs. Cruz Azul — Estadio Akron — November 22

How to Stay Close to the Game

If you love soccer — whether it’s the European kind or the kind played on this side of the pond (the Americas) — there is a handy tool for you! The AS USA app is like a magic window into the sports world.

Here are the steps to get closer to all the action:

1. Download the AS USA app from their website (click here).
2. Dive into live game coverage, smart tips from experts, breaking news, and exclusive videos.
3. Stay updated not just on soccer, but also on NFL, NBA, other big sports, current affairs, and entertainment.
4. Follow their TikTok (@asusaofficial) and Instagram (asusaofficial) for bite-sized visual takes on the biggest soccer news.

Important: The AS USA app and their social media pages give you all-access coverage right at your fingertips — anytime, anywhere!

Summary

Let’s recap what we learned! Mexico recently lost to England in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 at CDMX Stadium. Now, fans are looking ahead to the Apertura 2026 Liga MX season, which starts on July 16. Cruz Azul hopes to defend their championship crown. The season opens with Atlante’s return to the first division and a Tijuana vs. Tigres match. We also have all the big rivalry (Clásico) game dates, from Cruz Azul vs. América in September to Chivas vs. Cruz Azul in November. And if you want to keep up with every kick, the AS USA app and social media have you covered!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the Liga MX Apertura?
The Apertura is one of the two main parts of the Mexican soccer league season (Liga MX). It’s a tournament that happens yearly where teams play to become champions.

2. What does "Clásico" mean in soccer?
A Clásico is a special match between two teams that are big rivals. Fans get super excited because these games are full of history and emotion!

3. When does the Apertura 2026 season start?
The first games will be played on Thursday, July 16.

4. Which team is the defending champion going into Apertura 2026?
Cruz Azul won the previous title (the "crown") and will try to win again this season.

5. How can I easily follow these games and news?
You can download the AS USA app (here) or follow AS USA on TikTok and Instagram for quick updates, live coverage, and expert insights.