Tom, I think this should satisfy your curiosity https://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?t=622368
I really wonder about this. Last year IIRC there weren't huge blow outs like this. I wonder if Compean and co. really did tell the clubs "Lets stick it to them." It would be different if the clubs affected were playing here but they are not. Thats highly unlikely but I wouldn't put it past the FMF.
I hope that's the case. Blowouts like these are neccessary to prove that Mexican clubs belong in South American competitions. Also, it will win over fans who are on the fence on whether to follow the Mex or usa league. That means more $$$ for the Mexican Federation
I think I remember mexican clubs playing these tournaments with mostly reservers before. I'll have to check back the old game reports to be sure.
Okay. I forgot they changed the format for this year. But, the clubs would usually play with reserves in the early rounds. Looks like Pumas played all their starters.