Tigres UANL won’t play friendlies during the FIFA break, here’s what’s behind that decision

The Apertura 2025 regular season is entering its decisive stage, and Tigres UANL are in the middle of the fight to secure a direct ticket to the Liguilla. After 12 matchdays, the team sits fifth in the table with 23 points, the result of six wins, five draws, and only one loss.

However, the league is now on pause due to the October FIFA break, which gives national teams space for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. While some Liga MX clubs use this window to stay active through international friendlies, Tigres have chosen a different path, they’ll take the time to regroup, train, and prepare for the final stretch.

The Texas friendly that never happened

According to Diario Reforma, Tigres were scheduled to face Rayados de Monterrey in a friendly match in Texas, United States, during the break. However, that plan was canceled in recent weeks due to scheduling issues and fitness priorities.

This means Guido Pizarro’s squad will go nearly two weeks without official action, a decision that could work both ways, allowing key players to rest, but also risking a loss of rhythm just when consistency matters most.

Back at “El Volcán” for Matchday 13

Tigres’ most recent game ended in a 2–2 draw against Cruz Azul on October 4, a result that kept them within striking distance of the top four. Their next challenge will come on Friday, October 17, when they host Necaxa at Estadio Universitario.

The Rayos, sitting near the bottom of the standings, could provide the perfect opportunity for Tigres to regain momentum and tighten their grip on a direct playoff spot. Still, the question lingers: will the break refresh the squad or disrupt their rhythm heading into the final stretch?

A crucial final push

With five games left in the Apertura 2025, every point will count. Tigres’ balance this season, 21 goals scored and 13 conceded, shows a team with offensive depth but moments of inconsistency in defense. For Guido Pizarro, maintaining focus during this break will be key to turning that balance into a playoff run.