**Club Tijuana** have been drawn into the **East 3** group at this summer’s **Leagues Cup**, in which they will take on Philadelphia Union and Club Queretaro. The _Xolos_ will take to the field on July 22 to face the **MLS** outfit at 8:00 hrs ET (6:00 hrs CDMX) at Subaru Park, the American team’s home ground. Eight days later, it’ll be an all-**LIGA MX** clash as they face **Quéretaro** at the same stadium, this time at 7:30 hrs ET (5:30 hrs CDMX), in what promises to be a crucial match for a spot in the knockout stages.
How are Club Tijuana looking going into Leagues Cup?
The Miguel Herrera-coached side have been going through a rough patch of form, having only won one of the three games in their Apertura 2023 campaign so far. In last season’s Clausura, they finished 15th out of 18 teams, leaving them adrift of the playoff spots. A strong showing in Leagues Cup action could be the catalyst they need to get their season going.
The Xolos fans will be pinning their hopes of a deep run at this year’s edition on a number of players, in particular forward Carlos González and young playmaker Kevin Castañeda, while former Mexico coach Herrera’s tactical nous will undoubtedly be an asset as well.
Carlos González, Club Tijuana’s star striker
The 30-year-old Carlos González is now leading the line for Tijuana, having made the move from Toluca FC during the off-season. Despite his team’s middling form, he has managed three goals in three games so far this LIGA MX campaign. The Paraguayan broke onto the scene while playing in Chile and has also represented Pumas and Club Tigres during his time in Mexico.
Up front, he has formed an impressive partnership with Alexis Canelo, with the understanding between the two forwards crucial to Miguel Herrera’s set-up this season. The pair are expected to be a handful for defences at this year’s Leagues Cup.
Kevin Castañeda, the playmaking prospect
Another arrival from Toluca, although the 23-year-old attacking midfielder joined last season. After spending last season in and out of the team, Castañeda has embraced the number 10 mantle and is gaining in playing time this campaign. The technical midfielder is expected to continue gaining in prominence in the Tijuana team, and could be one of the breakout stars at Leagues Cup.
