Let’s cut through the noise. After six matchdays of the Apertura 2026 in Liga MX, Club América sit alone at the top of the table with 16 points from five wins and one draw. They have scored 12 goals and conceded just two. That +10 goal difference is not a statistical fluke. It is a statement.
But is this the most solid team in the tournament so far, or simply a side benefiting from a soft schedule and a temporary lack of true competition at the top?
- América: 16 pts | 5W-1D-0L | GF 12 | GA 2 | GD +10
- Toluca: 13 pts
- Tijuana: 13 pts
- Atlas: 12 pts
- Chivas: 11 pts
The numbers don’t Lie — But they don’t tell the full story either
Guillermo Almada, the Uruguayan coach who took over in June 2026, has the Águilas flying. The defensive record is eye-catching. Only two goals conceded in six league matches is elite by any standard in Liga MX. Compare that to traditional heavyweights like Monterrey and Tigres, both stuck on five points and leaking goals, and the contrast becomes uncomfortable.
In their latest outing, América dismantled Puebla 2-0 on August 29 at Estadio Banorte. The goals came from Brazilian midfielder Ícaro in the 23rd minute and Uruguayan winger Brian Rodríguez in the 76th. What made the result more impressive? Almada rotated heavily, resting key players ahead of a Leagues Cup semi-final against Monterrey. The second unit still controlled the game.
That depth is real. Yet it also raises a legitimate question: how much of this dominance is sustainable once the calendar tightens and the big rivals start matching intensity?
Almada’s tactical fingerprint
Almada has instilled structure without killing creativity. The back line, often featuring a mix of experienced heads and academy products, looks organized. The midfield balances control with verticality. Up front, Henry Martín remains the focal point with three goals already, while Brian Rodríguez continues to produce decisive moments.
Still, the coach himself is not entirely satisfied. After the Puebla win he publicly stated the squad still needs reinforcements of specific profiles. That is either refreshing honesty or an early admission that the current group has limits. Which is it?
“We need some players with different characteristics from what we currently have.” — Guillermo Almada
Those words should not be ignored. Leading the table after six games is excellent. Leading it with a clear sense that the squad is incomplete is more revealing.
Where the criticism lands
América’s schedule so far has not been the most demanding. Wins against San Luis, Santos Laguna, Juárez and Puebla are expected from a club of this stature. The only real test was the away draw at Atlante early in the campaign. Until they face stronger opposition in consecutive matches, the “most solid team” label remains provisional.
Consider the upcoming fixtures. A home clash against third-placed Tijuana looms. Gilberto Mora, the 17-year-old sensation from Xolos, has already scored four goals and has made a habit of punishing big clubs. That match will offer a clearer measure of América’s current level than any of the previous six.
| Metric | América | League Average (Top 8) |
|---|---|---|
| Points per game | 2.67 | ~1.9 |
| Goals conceded per game | 0.33 | ~1.1 |
| Clean sheets | 4 in 6 | — |
Is this sustainable?
Three factors will decide whether América are genuinely building something lasting or simply enjoying a strong start:
- Defensive consistency when facing high-pressing or more technical attacks.
- Squad rotation during the congested period that includes Leagues Cup and domestic fixtures.
- Ability to close out tight matches against direct rivals rather than lower-table sides.
Right now the data leans positive. The eye test is mostly favorable. The residual doubt comes from the level of opposition defeated and Almada’s own admission that the roster still lacks certain pieces.
The bottom line
América are the best team in Liga MX through six rounds of the Apertura 2026. That is not debatable. They are undefeated, they defend better than anyone, and they have shown the ability to win with both the first team and the second unit.
Calling them the most solid project in the league, however, requires more evidence. The real examination begins now. Tijuana at home, followed by the inevitable clásicos against Cruz Azul and Chivas later in the season, will reveal whether this is a genuine title contender or a side currently overperforming relative to its true level.
For the moment, the Águilas are flying. The question is how long the altitude holds.
