Omar Moreno Near-Misses: Mazatlán Struggles & U-20 Hope 2026

Omar Moreno has created three clear scoring chances in Mazatlán FC’s recent Liga MX fixtures, only to see his shots saved or rebounded. Despite the lack of goals, his aggressive positioning and partnership with midfielder Yoel Bárcenas highlight his growing importance for a side battling relegation and earn him continued attention from the Mexico U‑20 national team.

Match Analysis: Moreno’s Chances vs Monterrey

In the 22nd minute, Bárcenas delivered a diagonal pass to Moreno on the right side of the box. Moreno struck low toward the far post, but the Monterrey goalkeeper collected the ball cleanly. Nine minutes later, Moreno received another service, fired a low‑driven shot that hit the post before being parried. Both attempts showcased his willingness to shoot from tight angles.

Pattern of Near‑Misses in Recent Games

Puebla Match Recap

Against Puebla, Moreno repeated the same pattern. A 22‑minute effort was saved by goalkeeper Daniel Gutiérrez, and a second attempt at the 31st minute lacked precision but demonstrated his relentless drive. The consistency of his positioning on the right flank has become a recognizable hallmark of Mazatlán’s attacking play this season.

What Moreno Means for Mazatlán’s Relegation Fight

Tactical Role and Potential Impact

Moreno’s repeated cuts from the right flank create shooting angles that pull defenders away from the centre. Combined with Bárcenas’ vision, this tactic aims to maximize Moreno’s powerful right‑footed strike. Converting even a fraction of his chances could lift team morale, increase pressure on opponents, and provide the decisive edge needed to avoid the relegation zone.

Implications for Mexico U‑20 Selection

Path to the 2025 World Cup

Moreno’s club performances earned him a call‑up to the Mexico U‑20 training camp ahead of the CONCACAF U‑20 Championship and the 2025 FIFA U‑20 World Cup. His ability to handle pressure and maintain a high work rate aligns with national team expectations, and a successful tournament could accelerate his rise to senior international duty.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Fixtures and Opportunities

Key Moments to Watch

Mazatlán’s next match against a mid‑table opponent offers Moreno a less intense environment to find the net. Simultaneously, the U‑20 training camp will expose him to varied tactical schemas, sharpening his decision‑making and finishing under coach Eduardo Arce. Strong performances in both settings could cement his role as a future star for club and country.