Santos Laguna: A Team on the Rise

The Resurgence of Santos Laguna: How a Mexican Team Became a Football Powerhouse

In the world of football, there are few teams that have experienced the kind of resurgence that Santos Laguna has in recent years. With a rich history that dates back to 1912, the Mexican team has consistently punched above its weight, competing with the best teams in the world and winning numerous domestic and international titles. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the rise of Santos Laguna, exploring its history, achievements, and the factors that have contributed to its success.

Located in Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico, Santos Laguna is one of the most successful teams in the country's top division, the Liga MX. With a stadium capacity of over 25,000, the Estadio Torreón has become a fortress for the team, with fans packing the stands to cheer on their beloved team. The team's name is derived from the Catholic patron saint of footballers, Saint Lawrence, and its colors are a bold red and blue.

Despite its modest name, Santos Laguna has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The team was founded in 1912 by a group of friends who were passionate about football, and it quickly became one of the top teams in the country. Over the years, the team has experienced its fair share of ups and downs, but it has consistently produced talented players who have gone on to play for top clubs around the world.

The Rise to Prominence

So, what factors have contributed to Santos Laguna's rise to prominence in recent years? One key factor is the team's commitment to developing young players. The club has a well-regarded academy that produces talented youngsters who are soon shipped off to top clubs in Mexico and beyond. This approach has paid dividends, with players like Andrés Guardado, Javier Hernández, and Oribe Peralta all cutting their teeth with the team before going on to successful careers.

Another factor that has contributed to the team's success is its strong leadership. Under the guidance of managers like José Cardozo and Guillermo Barros Schelotto, the team has been able to attract top talent and develop a strong team ethos. The team's owners, the Arteche family, have also played a key role in the team's success, providing the necessary financial resources to attract and retain top players.

Liga MX Success

Santos Laguna's success in Liga MX has been nothing short of remarkable. The team has won three league titles, with its most recent success coming in 2017. The team has also won two Copa México titles and has been runners-up in the competition on several occasions. In addition to its domestic success, the team has also competed in several international tournaments, including the CONCACAF Champions League and the Copa Libertadores.

Some of the team's most notable successes in Liga MX include:

• 3x Liga MX Champions (2007, 2014, 2017)
• 2x Copa México Champions (2012, 2013)
• 2x Recopa MX Champions (2007, 2015)
• Top 5 finish in Liga MX on several occasions

International Success

In addition to its success in Liga MX, Santos Laguna has also experienced international success in recent years. The team has competed in several international tournaments, including the CONCACAF Champions League and the Copa Libertadores.

One of the team's most notable international successes was its run to the semifinals of the 2018 CONCACAF Champions League. The team, led by manager Guillermo Barros Schelotto, defeated several top teams from North and Central America, including the reigning champions, Real Club Deportivo Guadalajara.

Some of the team's most notable international matches include:

• 2018 CONCACAF Champions League semifinals
• 2017 CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals
• 2016 Copa Libertadores group stage

The Future of Santos Laguna

As Santos Laguna continues to grow and develop, it's clear that the team is on the rise. With a strong squad, a committed ownership group, and a proven track record of success, the team is well-positioned to compete with the best teams in the world.

Here are some key factors that suggest Santos Laguna is on the rise:

• Recent signings of top talent, including Spanish midfielder Luis Gabriel Muñoz
• New stadium deal that will see the team play in a state-of-the-art facility
• Strong youth academy that produces talented players for the first team
• Commitment to developing the team's playing style and philosophy

The Fans

The fans of Santos Laguna are some of the most dedicated and passionate in the world. With a strong sense of pride and loyalty, the fans have supported the team through thick and thin, and have been instrumental in the team's success.

Some interesting facts about the fans include:

• The team has a massive following in Mexico and beyond, with fans in over 50 countries
• The fans are known for their creativity and passion, with fans often taking to social media to show their support for the team
• The fans have a strong sense of camaraderie, with many fans attending matches and events together

Conclusion

Santos Laguna is a team on the rise, with a rich history, a strong squad, and a commitment to developing young players. With recent successes in Liga MX and international competitions, the team is well-positioned to compete with the best teams in the world. As the team continues to grow and develop, it's clear that Santos Laguna is a force to be reckoned with in the world of football.