Leon — Mazatlan : Match Preview and Prediction for September 24,2025

Analyzing León’s Recent Performance

The resounding 5-0 defeat against Tijuana was undeniably a harsh setback. While such a score can be painful to observe, it’s crucial to analyze the situation objectively, focusing on the facts. This match was played away from home, and León’s performance on the road this season starkly contrasts with their home form. Statistics corroborate this: they’ve managed just 4 points and a 2-9 goal difference in away fixtures, while at home, they’ve secured 7 points with a much more respectable 6-5 goal difference.

Impact of James Rodriguez’s Absence

A critical factor in the heavy loss to Tijuana was the absence of James Rodriguez. Coach Eduardo Berizzo clarified that the Colombian suffered an Achilles tendon injury, dispelling rumors of an unwillingness to play on artificial turf. Without their primary playmaker and a key starter, León’s offensive strategy crumbled. The match statistics against Tijuana clearly reflect this struggle: a mere 6 shots over 90 minutes, with only 2 on target, resulting in an xG of just 0.52.

Anticipated Return of Key Players

James Rodriguez is expected to return to action for the upcoming clash against Mazatlán. Multiple sources indicate that he has been specifically prepared for this home fixture. His anticipated return fundamentally transforms the team’s attacking capabilities. Furthermore, Panamanian forward Ismael Diaz is in excellent form, having already netted 4 goals in 6 appearances.

Mazatlán’s Current League Standing

Mazatlán is unequivocally one of the league’s underdogs, a conclusion supported not by mere opinion but by concrete statistics. The team currently languishes in 15th place in the overall standings, accumulating just 7 points after 9 rounds. Their away performances are particularly dismal; in four road matches, Mazatlán has managed to secure only a single point, suffering three losses with a goal difference of 2-5.

Recent Form and Struggles

The team’s current form offers little reason for optimism. Mazatlán has failed to win in their last five consecutive league matches. Moreover, recent trends show they have lost four of their last five fixtures. In their most recent outing, they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home against Atlas, another team struggling at the bottom of the table.

Defensive Weaknesses and Overall Issues

Mazatlán’s defense is notably porous, having conceded 11 goals in their last five league matches, making it the second-worst defensive record in the league over that period. Season-long statistics are equally disheartening: the team ranks among the worst for total shots, shots on target, and created goal-scoring opportunities. Essentially, this is a squad facing significant challenges across all departments.