How a change to the Liga MX playoffs could benefit Tigres and others
Due to World Cup 2026, a rule change on clubs’ rosters is to be implemented in the Liga MX playoffs.
The 2026 World Cup in North America will bring with it a small but meaningful change to the Liga MX playoff regulations - something Rómulo Zwarg believes will work in Tigres’ favor.
“Going to help us a lot”
The Brazilian midfielder pointed out that Tigres wouldn’t be the only team gaining an “advantage” from the rule adjustment; he suggested that several other clubs - without naming names - would also benefit from the new landscape.
“I don’t know if it benefits us, but I think it does because it’s going to help us a lot in the playoffs. Without that rule, I believe some teams could have an edge,” he said.
For the upcoming Clausura 2026, the playoffs will no longer come with a limit on foreign players on the field. The decision was made back on December 9, tied to the departure of national‑team players preparing for the World Cup.
Teams will now be allowed to field up to nine non-Mexico‑trained players at the same time. And although Tigres still have one open foreign‑player slot, this shift could become a significant opportunity for Guido Pizarro’s squad if they decide to fill that spot.
Praise for “outstanding” Lainez
Zwarg also highlighted Diego Lainez as Tigres’ strongest World Cup candidate, praising the winger’s current form and his importance not only to the club but also to the Mexican national team.
“Talking about Diego, for me he’s an outstanding player - someone who really makes a difference,” Zwarg said. “He’s a guy who’s fearless going forward and helps a lot defensively. In my opinion, he absolutely deserves to be with the national team. Mexico needs its best players, and he should be there to help.”
The South American wrapped up by acknowledging the squad’s lack of confidence following an uneven start to the Clausura 2026 (one win, one draw, one loss). He also left any decisions regarding additional reinforcements to the club’s front office, though he spoke highly of the team’s only signing so far, Francisco Reyes.
“Talking about Reyes, he’s a very good player,” Zwarg said. “I enjoy playing with him and training alongside him. Reinforcements are an issue for the front office - more players would definitely help, but that’s for management and Guido to handle.
“I think it’s mostly a confidence issue. We know a lot of players left our squad. Guido helps us, guides us on the field, and we know we didn’t start the tournament the way we would’ve liked.”
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment