The league features 19 teams from different regions of Mexico, including club giants like Chivas, America, and Cruz Azul. Since its inauguration, the league has created significant change in the country, particularly in the traditional machismo culture that permeates Mexican football. Many players in the league have become powerful role models for young aspiring players as well as women navigating their way in a male-dominated society.
The creation of the Liga MX Femenil proved to be a historic moment for women’s football in Mexico. In its first season, Chivas defeated Pachuca in the finals, in what was a closely contested game to claim the inaugural title. The following year saw a new champion crowned with Tigres lifting the trophy, before Monterrey clinched the championship in 2019. It is worth noting that these teams possess male counterparts in Liga MX, which makes it easier to support them, though some clubs have struggled to draw large crowds despite their success on the pitch.
However, the implementation of this league was not without its challenges. The league has struggled with financial issues, and the players do not receive the same pay as their male counterparts. Many believe that the pay difference is shameful and highlights the inequality that still exists in the Mexican footballing world. Moreover, several clubs have also struggled with playing conditions, resulting in limited accessibility to the required training and playing facilities.
Yet, despite these setbacks, the Liga MX Femenil has persisted, with many demonstrating that the league is continuing to grow and take shape. Since inception, the league has seen an increase in popularity, with more people attending games, and there is now more recognition of women’s football in sport news outlets. The national team has also experienced success on the international stage, finishing as runners-up in the 2018 CONCACAF Women’s Championship, qualifying for the 2019 Women’s World Cup, and currently ranking 28th by FIFA.
The Liga MX Femenil has also created a platform for players to elevate their careers. The league has seen many talented players, such as Janelly Farias, Renae Cuellar, and Stephany Mayor, who have used the platform to progress to bigger and more recognized clubs abroad, like Rayados Monterrey, Houston Dash, and Olympique Lyonnais. The growth of the league has also allowed more foreigners to participate in the league, providing greater exposure to international talent and providing competition to improve the level of Mexican players.
In conclusion, the Liga MX Femenil has seen much progress since its inception in 2017, not only in promoting women’s football but also in dismantling the sexist stereotypes that continue to plague football in Mexico. However, there is still a long way to go, and that starts with greater recognition and support for the league. The Liga MX Femenil has brought about a significant transformation in the Mexican footballing world that marks a path of progress and evolution. It is time to continue this journey with greater investment, infrastructure, and support to establish a better future for women’s football in Mexico.