The run for the Liga MX playoffs begins in earnest at this point, as some of the scores this weekend could reflect the extra effort players are putting in to get their clubs to the postseason.
First-placed Tijuana scored three goals, but lost to 10th-placed Monterrey in a 4-3 result. Leon and Queretaro managed a nine-goal thriller, with the latter team winning 5-4. That's how things go in the league, and yet through it all, the best players find a way to shine.
Here are the Best XI in Liga MX for the past week:
Oribe Peralta -- Forward, Club America: The veteran scored the lone goal in the Clasico Joven against Cruz Azul and it made a crucial difference not only in winning but also stabilizing the tenure of under-pressure coach Gustavo Matosas.
Emanuel Villa, -- Forward, Queretaro: Argentine-born Villa had a big impact for his club in its match vs. Leon, scoring the equalizing goal in the 28th minute and finishing off the opposition with a 90th minute winner.
Pablo Barrera -- Midfielder, Monterrey: It's easy to forget both how young Barrera still is (he's only 27) and how talented he could be, because he has been injured so often and for so long. Barrera was in fine form for Monterrey, scoring the second goal in his team's 4-3 victory over Tijuana.
Jesus Duenas -- Midfielder, Tigres: Sure, forward Rafael Sobis scored two goals in the 3-1 win over Veracruz, but it was Duenas who was pulling the strings in midfield and setting up opportunities all game long for his squad.
Neri Cardozo -- Midfielder, Monterrey: It's not unheard-of for teams to score while down a man, but it is unusual. It takes skill and tenacity. Cardozo showed both while scoring the winner against the Xolos.
Silvio Romero -- Midfielder, Chiapas FC: The Argentine midfielder opened up the scoring in the 2-2 match versus Pachuca. He should continue to have an impact as he gets more adjusted to the league.
José Abella -- Defender, Santos Laguna: The young defender did well for his team against Morelia, sending in the key pass for the lone goal of the game.
Yasser Corona -- Defender, Queretaro: A pounding header by Corona put Queretaro in the lead just before the half, giving the squad hope. The slugfest against Leon would end only after six more goals were scored, including a penalty given up by Corona.
Paulo da Silva -- Defender, Toluca: The leader on the backline kept his teammates organized and helped preserve a close 1-0 victory for Toluca at a time when points are vital.
Jose Carlos Van Rankin -- Defender, Pumas: The young Mexican defender is becoming more active for Pumas, scoring the opening goal against Leones Negros in a 2-0 victory.
Luis Ernesto Michel -- Goalkeeper, Chivas: A derby point in the Clasico Tapatio was preserved through the efforts of the goalkeeper, who stopped a late penalty kick.