‘I’ve never thought this tournament was balanced' - Tigres' Javier Aquino joins growing number of Liga MX players and managers to criticize Leagues Cup

Tigres are one of the few teams still boasting a perfect record at the Leagues Cup, after recording back-to-back wins against MLS opponents. Under Guido Pizarro’s watch, they cruised past the Houston Dynamo and then defeated San Diego FC - with Ángel Correa netting a brace in both outings.

Following the win over San Diego, Javier Aquino spoke in the mixed zone and joined the criticism aimed at the tournament, insisting it has never been balanced between the leagues.

“I’ve never thought this tournament was balanced - honestly, fairness would be them having to come play at our place too, travel, leave their families and their homes. That would make things more even. But the rules are there and we have to respect them,” he said.

Aquino added that Tigres feel a responsibility to step up for Liga MX and showcase the quality of Mexican clubs.

“We have to show the level the Mexican league is known for and try to uphold the reputation of both the league and our club. We’re trying to do our best and represent Tigres properly,” he said.

Aquino's comments reflect the growing frustration among Liga MX sides, who have been vocal about their discomfort with the competition’s format - especially the fact that every match is staged in the United States. While several MLS teams have been able to play at their home stadiums, Mexican clubs have had to travel constantly from city to city, fuelling the perception that the tournament is lopsided. Still, after two rounds of action, the level of play has been strong, and both leagues continue to feed a rivalry that is growing rapidly.

Pizarro also praised Ángel Correa’s form since arriving from Atlético de Madrid.

“I’m happy for Ángel, he’s getting more comfortable every day - credit to the group for helping him settle. We’ve only played two games, nothing is decided yet, it’ll all come down to the last match,” he said.