Why did Liga MX allow América to make six substitutions? The rule is five

América’s draw against Santos Laguna raised eyebrows, but there was never any real danger of the result being overturned due to an alleged rules violation. The Eagles made six substitutions during the game, exceeding the standard limit, yet remained fully compliant with Liga MX regulations thanks to the activation of the concussion protocol.

Manager André Jardine made the six changes against Santos, immediately prompting questions over whether América had broken the rules, which typically allow up to five substitutions across three windows per game. However, the situation was entirely within the framework of the competition’s regulations, as the concussion protocol permits an additional substitution when activated.

The protocol came into effect late in the first half following a heavy clash of heads between Aldo López and Miguel Vázquez. López, a Santos player, was unable to continue after the incident. That moment triggered the concussion protocol and, with it, the allowance for an extra substitution beyond the usual five.

Liga MX regulations, specifically Article 32, outline that during the Apertura 2025 and Clausura 2026 tournaments, clubs may make a maximum of five substitutions per match, distributed across three opportunities, with no distinction between goalkeepers and outfield players. However, the rule also explicitly allows for an additional substitution in cases of concussion, provided the protocol is followed.

As a result, América did not breach any rules and will not face disciplinary action or forfeit the game.

Which six substitutions did América make?

While Santos used the standard five substitutions, América took advantage of the extra allowance. The sixth and final change came in the 79th minute, when Alejandro Zendejas left the field and was replaced by Isaías Violante. Earlier changes included Lima for Sánchez, Salas for Zúñiga, Jonathan dos Santos for Dourado, Gutiérrez for Veiga, and Mejía for Álvarez.

The sequence confirmed that América fully utilized the flexibility granted under the concussion protocol, turning confusion into a straightforward application of the rules.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.