Star duo reunites in Liga MX eight years after Real Madrid glory

Who would have thought Liga MX could get even more compelling? In recent years, bringing international stars to Mexican football has gone from a novelty to almost routine. Sergio Ramos kicked off this trend, followed by former Real Madrid teammates who asked themselves, “Why not?” when the opportunity arose.

James and Navas: a friendship forged in Madrid

James Rodríguez and Keylor Navas, the protagonists of today’s story, spent three years together at Real Madrid, building a friendship that endures to this day. Seven years had to pass before they would meet again on the pitch, long after their shared successes.

From LaLiga champions to Champions League opponents

Their last match as teammates came on May 21, 2017, when Real Madrid defeated Malaga 2-0 to clinch the LaLiga title. That victory marked the end of an era for the duo, who would next face each other as opponents.

Their first head-to-head encounter came on May 1, 2018, in the UEFA Champions League semifinals. Bayern Munich and Real Madrid drew 2-2, with James scoring, though it wasn’t enough for the Germans as Real Madrid advanced 4-3 on aggregate.

Later that year, after the Russia World Cup, Colombia and Costa Rica met in a friendly in October 16, with James’ Colombia defeating Keylor’s Costa Rica 3-1. After that, they hadn’t faced each other again, whether with clubs or national teams.

A Real Madrid reunion in Liga MX

That’s why this Saturday, October 25, the clash between León and Pumas carries special significance. Not only could the match shape their teams’ playoff positioning, but it also reunites two continental stars who, just a few years ago, were shining at the pinnacle of European football.

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