After a stunning 4-0 win over Dorados de Sinaloa, Venados FC are riding high, but head coach Rigoberto Esparza remains focused on the bigger picture. While the dominant performance in Matchday 12 was a boost, Esparza believes there’s plenty of work ahead if the team hopes to be true title contenders.
“It would be a mistake to get overconfident,” Esparza emphasized. “Despite the scoreline, we have many areas to improve if we want to achieve our ultimate goal—competing for the championship.” The victory, secured at the Estadio Olímpico “Carlos Iturralde Rivero“, marked a pivotal moment in their season, extending their unbeaten home streak to five games.
Standout Performances
Esparza highlighted the efforts of Stiven Plaza, who broke a scoring drought with two goals. “Stiven was working hard for this. Scoring those goals was just what he needed,” the coach praised. He also mentioned Luciano Nequecaur, who is making strides after injury, and Vladimir Suárez, who made an impressive debut. “Luciano is getting stronger with each game, and the team was thrilled for Vladimir’s debut. It’s a healthy locker room where anyone can step up.”
Unity and Focus
Esparza credited the team’s chemistry as a key factor in their success. “What you see in the locker room translates onto the field. When Vladimir came on, everyone was happy for him. It’s a tight-knit group, and that positivity is crucial.”
With the team now sitting sixth in the Apertura 2024 standings with 18 points, Esparza remains focused on maintaining momentum. “We have a tricky opponent coming up in Coyotes de Tlaxcala. They’re well-coached and dangerous. If we want to be title contenders, we have to keep earning points.”
Aiming for the Liguilla
Looking ahead, Esparza stressed the importance of keeping the squad healthy and competitive as they push for a Liguilla spot. “The internal competition is key. Whoever is in the best shape will play. Our goal is to have everyone at full strength for the playoffs.”
The Venados are set to face Coyotes de Tlaxcala on Saturday, October 26, in what could be another critical match for their campaign. With home advantage and confidence running high, they’ll be looking to keep their unbeaten streak alive and move up the standings.
