Squad Management: Chivas Femenil’s Ace Up Its Sleeve | OneFootball

Chivas Femenil got off to a flying start in the Apertura 2026, powered by several individual strengths that have come together to produce a convincing display of collective football. The clearest reflection of that has been their 9 points, 10 goals scored and perfect record, which currently have them sitting third in the overall standings.

The conversation could end there, but if there is one thing Guadalajara has made clear over the last few tournaments under Antonio Contreras, it is that the team has a secret weapon that has not only delivered short-term results, but has also provided important tools for the medium term: squad management.

There are several examples that illustrate this point, but let's start with the most recent one. Joseline Montoya began her third semester in this second stint as a Rojiblanca. 'Flash' joined the Rebaño after a spell with Tigres, where she even played as a right-back. After finding her rhythm and adapting to Guadalajara's style of play, she is now the team's leading scorer in the tournament with 4 goals, doubling in just 3 matches the number of goals she had scored across her previous two semesters combined.

Another example is Samantha López, who joined Chivas Femenil in the AP25 and was only able to play one match during her first semester. However, that period served as a foundation for her to establish herself as a starting center-back beginning in the CL26, becoming one of the Liga Femenil's best defenders when it comes to playing out from the back.

We can also point to the manager and his coaching staff's ability to make changes at precisely the right moment. A great example is this season's 3-1 comeback win over Querétaro. Although the match became difficult for the Rebaño, the introduction of Natalia Mauleón and Mayra Pelayo shifted the balance in Guadalajara's favor within a matter of minutes.

We can even go back to the previous semester, specifically to two matches that, without exaggeration, remain etched in the memories of Chivahermanos. In the Clásico Tapatío and the Clásico de México, Guadalajara found itself with its back against the wall after falling behind 0-2 in both matches. However, the comebacks—4-2 and 3-2, respectively—were largely driven by the players who came on from the bench.

And so, with a clear playing philosophy, key players enjoying excellent form and a squad that is always ready when called upon, Chivas Femenil has a very high ceiling in the AP26.