The day ‘Chava’ Reyes changed the rules of the game with Chivas | OneFootball

Don Salvador Reyes undoubtedly left countless unforgettable moments in the history of Guadalajara. But when it seemed that ‘Chava’s’ legacy could not grow any larger, the night of January 19, 2008 was forever etched into the memory of Chivahermanos and into the story of one of the most important figures in the Rebaño Sagrado.

Yes, you remember it well: we’re talking about that moment when the pitch at Estadio Jalisco witnessed the return of an idol, as Salvador Reyes once again pulled on the Rebaño Sagrado jersey in an official match. An instant filled with emotion that today we share with the entire Nación Rojiblanca.

Why was January 19 such an important day for Don ‘Chava’?

On January 19, 2008, Matchday 1 of the Clausura 2008 was played at the Coloso de la Calzada Independencia, where Chivas hosted Pumas. That match took place as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the first Campeonísimo title, won during the 1956-57 season—a championship in which Salvador Reyes played a starring role. For that reason, the Club decided to pay him a well-deserved tribute while he was still alive, allowing him to wear the Rojiblanca jersey once again in an official match.

How was the tribute carried out?

Guadalajara registered Don ‘Chava’ as part of the squad for that opening match. He took the field as part of the attacking line, wearing the number 57 jersey. For 55 seconds, and at 71 years of age, one of the Club’s greatest legends once again stepped onto the pitch wearing the Rebaño jersey, becoming the oldest footballer to play official minutes with Chivas.

Who replaced Salvador Reyes?

After taking the kickoff and sharing the field with figures such as Ramón Morales, the substitution was announced: Salvador Reyes—then the Club’s all-time leading goalscorer—came off, and Omar Bravo entered the match. The moment was accompanied by an unforgettable ovation and an emotional farewell, as the squad lined up on the pitch to pay tribute to a true Rojiblanca legend.

What was the result of that match?

That day, Chivas defeated Pumas 3-0, with goals from Sergio Santana, Sergio ‘Gauchito’ Ávila and Patricio Araujo. However, beyond the scoreline, what remained etched in memory was the privilege of seeing Salvador Reyes defend the jersey he took to the very top, one last time.

What was the lineup for that match?

Luis Michel; Héctor Reynoso, Patricio Araujo, José Olvera; Jonny Magallón, Gonzalo Pineda, Ramón Morales (C), Xavier Báez; Sergio Ávila, Sergio Santana and Salvador Reyes.