The upcoming Leagues Cup match between Tijuana and San Diego FC carries all the hallmarks of a classic cross-border rivalry—intense atmosphere, local pride, and high stakes. But beneath the surface tension, there is a lingering sense of what might have been. For Tijuana goalkeeper Jose Antonio Rodriguez, the absence of Mexican star Hirving “Chucky” Lozano from the San Diego lineup is a genuine disappointment, especially given the tantalizing prospect of seeing Lozano face off against Tijuana’s 16-year-old prodigy Gilberto Mora.

Rodriguez, speaking to Bolavip during a press conference on Saturday, did not hide his feelings. “With [Lozano], I had the opportunity to play alongside him with the national team, so I know him well. He is a tremendous player, with great talent and quality. Of course, for the fans, it would have been a dream to see,” he said. “A player who gave so many people hope go up against this new star who is emerging in [Mora]. It would have been a match between the past and the present, or the present and the future. But, well, it didn’t happen that way.”

The veteran goalkeeper, who has previously shared the pitch with Lozano in Mexico’s colors, described the missed matchup as a symbolic passing of the torch. Mora, who has been turning heads with his performances in Liga MX, represents the next generation of Mexican talent. Lozano, meanwhile, remains a symbol of the country’s footballing golden era. The contrast between the two—a rising star and a seasoned icon—would have captivated audiences on both sides of the border.

Despite the disappointment, Rodriguez expressed genuine joy for Lozano’s new chapter. After a difficult period at club level, Lozano has joined San Diego FC, where he is expected to rediscover his form. Rodriguez echoed the sentiments of San Diego’s coaching staff, including Mikey Varas and Alejandro Alvarado, who have spoken warmly about Lozano’s fresh start. “At the end of the day, I’m happy that ‘Chucky’ has an opportunity to play and that a place has been found for him. Because at the end of the day, the most important thing for soccer players is to be on the field,” Rodriguez stated. “I’m happy that his situation has been resolved, and I wish him the greatest success because I know he will do very well. It would have been nice to have that matchup. The fans would have loved it, but it didn’t happen.”

Rodriguez’s comments came amid a broader discussion about his own career. At 34, the goalkeeper remains driven by one goal: a return to the Mexican national team. When asked during the press conference if he still dreams of representing his country, he made his stance clear. As long as he is playing professional soccer, earning a call-up remains his ultimate ambition. With Rafa Marquez now at the helm of El Tri, Rodriguez knows he must keep performing at a high level to catch the new coach’s attention. The message was unambiguous—he is not ready to close that chapter yet.

For now, all eyes turn to the Leagues Cup fixture. While the Lozano-Mora showdown won’t happen, the game itself still carries weight. Tijuana, playing at home, will look to impose their style against a San Diego side that is finding its identity. Rodriguez, as the last line of defense, will be crucial in keeping the opposition at bay. And even without the marquee matchup, the rivalry between two cities separated by a border—but united by a passion for football—promises to deliver drama.