Can Gilberto Mora Play the Quarterfinal vs Tigres? Here’s What the Rules Actually Say

The eligibility of Gilberto Mora for the Liga MX Quarterfinal match between Xolos and Tigres sparked debate due to one factor: his age. The midfielder is only 17, and many fans questioned whether Mexican labor law would allow a minor to participate in a game scheduled for 9:00 PM at Estadio Caliente.

While the Federal Labor Law does place restrictions on minors working late at night in traditional jobs, the Liga MX regulations contain no rule — zero — preventing underage players from competing in matches regardless of the time of kickoff. That means Mora is fully authorized to play. Article 175 of the Federal Labor Law prohibits minors from working in non-industrial settings after 10 PM, which led some to believe Mora could only legally play the first half. However, professional football is not categorized as conventional nighttime employment — it exists under an independent athletic regulatory framework.

Article 178 covers overtime and rest-day limitations for minors — but again, this applies to standard labor environments, not official sporting competitions. Mora has already played matches this season that ended well after 10 PM, proving that his participation is lawful and recognized by Liga MX. The league leaves the decision entirely to the clubs — they may field under-18 players at any match time without limitation. Xolos have already played Mora this season in night fixtures against Querétaro, FC Juárez, and Chivas without any legal issues or administrative complications.

The confusion escalated publicly because labor law governs most professions — but football operates through a specialized competitive structure separate from general employment rules, allowing youth talent to develop and compete at professional levels regardless of match hour. For this reason, Gilberto Mora is fully eligible to play not just the first half — but the entire match against Tigres without violating any law or regulation.