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Oribe Peralta off to a scorching start; Yasser Corona struggling

Two weeks down, 15 to go.

Before we move on to Week 3 of the 2016 Liga MX Apertura, let's take one final look back at some of the best and worst performances from noteworthy Mexicans in Week 2 in this week's Mexico Hot List.

Warming Up

Alejandro Palacios, GK, Pumas

Why he's here: During Saturday's dull 0-0 draw between Cruz Azul and Pumas, Palacios provided some much-needed excitement in the match. With some excellent saves, the 35-year-old emerged as the best player for the visiting side. After shutting down Chivas in Week 1 in a 1-0 win, Palacios has yet to allow a goal this season.

What this means: Mexico manager Juan Carlos Osorio, who was in attendance for the game, had to have taken notice of the veteran's eye-catching reflexes. Although it's difficult to say whether Palacios will gain a serious role for the national team, Osorio will surely continue to keep an eye on him.

Erick Gutierrez, MF, Pachuca

Why he's here: In addition to an assist during Pachuca's 2-0 win against Chiapas, Gutierrez played a key role as the team's main distributor. The 21-year-old was all over the pitch with his passing, while his interceptions were also crucial for Los Tuzos.

What this means: Like Peralta, Gutierrez will be heading to the Olympics on a high. Despite just recently turning 21, Gutierrez not only has an impressive amount of league minutes under his belt, but also a title from last season.

Oribe Peralta, FW, America

Why he's here: Peralta was the best player in Week 2. On Saturday night in the Estadio Azteca, the 32-year-old collected his first ever hat-trick for America during the 3-1 victory over Toluca. The striker was on fire for Las Aguilas and even came close very to scoring a fourth in the win.

What this means: The striker's performance bodes well for Mexico in the Olympics. As one of the three overage players on El Tri's Olympic roster, Peralta will head to Rio with an immense amount of confidence.

Cooling Down

Eduardo Herrera, FW, Pumas

Why he's here: After failing to make the cut for Mexico's final Copa America roster, Herrera has done little to get back on Osorio's radar. The 28-year-old, who late last year stated a desire to play in Europe, has yet to have a single shot in the Apertura. During Saturday's 0-0 draw against Cruz Azul, the striker was substituted out during the 57th minute.

What this means: A return to the national team is now unlikely. Although Herrera brings a physical and imposing presence in attack, Osorio will probably not be interested in trying out a striker who has yet to make an impact this season.

Yasser Corona, DF, Tijuana

Why he's here: Corona has lacked confidence in the three games he has played in all competitions with Los Xolos. On Sunday, the 28-year-old's shortcomings were highlighted with a poor defensive performance in the 3-2 loss to Puebla. Corona had no presence in a backline that was easily taken apart by the Puebla attack.

What this means: Tijuana manager Miguel "Piojo" Herrera should reconsider including Corona in his starting XI. While other newcomers like Aviles Hurtado and Guido Rodriguez have hit the ground running in Tijuana, Corona, who joined this summer from Queretaro, has been hesitant and perhaps needs more time to adapt.

Ulises Davila, MF, Santos Laguna

Why he's here: Davila has started the season on the bench for Santos Laguna. The former Chelsea player, who was sent on loan to five different clubs in five years while with the Blues before joining Santos, has yet to gain a starting role in his second season with Los Guerreros. During Friday's 2-0 loss to Veracruz, Davila made a cameo appearance as a substitute in the 71st minute.

What this means: Despite being largely stuck on the sidelines, Davila has the talent to regain a key role for Santos in 2016. However, if the 25-year-old wants to prove his worth to manager Luis Zubeldia, it will likely have to come as a late substitute.