Background and Significance of the Teams
Cruz Azul and America are set to meet for the tenth time in Liguilla history during the Clausura 2025 semifinal stage of the Liga MX. The match will be held first at CU and then at the Ciudad de los Deportes stadium.
Cruz Azul, known as “La Máquina,” has been on an impressive 18-game unbeaten streak under the guidance of Vicente Sánchez. Their last loss was on February 15, 2023, when they fell 2-1 to Tigres during the regular season’s Jornada 7. Sánchez has led the team in 23 matches since taking over as interim coach following Martín Anselmi’s sudden departure. His record boasts 14 wins, 8 draws, and just one loss, with a goal difference of 40-17.
America, also known as “Las Águilas,” has an equally impressive record in postseason play, having not lost a series since 2005. Their coach, André Jardine, recently led the team to their first-ever three consecutive short-season tournament titles (Apertura 2023, Clausura 2024, and Apertura 2024).
Cruz Azul’s Recent Performance
Vicente Sánchez’s leadership has been pivotal for Cruz Azul, with the team currently on an 18-game unbeaten run. Sánchez, who took over as interim coach in 2023, has guided the team to an impressive record of 14 wins, 8 draws, and only 1 loss. The team has scored 40 goals while conceding just 17, demonstrating their strong offensive and defensive capabilities.
Sánchez’s impact is further highlighted by his success against America, having not lost any of the five matches played under his tenure. He has led Cruz Azul to victory in crucial moments, including securing America’s spot in the Copa de Campeones de Concacaf semifinals.
Sánchez’s current streak is nearing Cruz Azul’s all-time best invincibility record of 20 matches during the Verano and Invierno 1997 seasons under Luis Fernando Tena’s guidance. The team won that Invierno tournament, showcasing their potential to repeat history.
In the Clausura 2021 season, Juan Reynoso led Cruz Azul to Liga MX triumph with an impressive 19-match unbeaten streak. Vicente Sánchez could match this record in the upcoming semifinal against America.
Despite these impressive statistics, Sánchez remains humble and focused on the upcoming challenges, stating that results and numbers speak for themselves.
America’s Streak and Mindset
Under André Jardine’s leadership, America has maintained an unbeaten record in 11 postseason series since the Apertura 2023 tournament. Out of 21 matches, they have only lost once (0-2 against Atlético de San Luis in the Apertura 2023 semifinals, but ultimately winning the series 5-2).
Jardine attributes America’s success to the collective efforts of the coaching staff, front office, and players. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic and continuously striving for improvement.
Jardine also addressed the team’s mindset regarding their recent elimination in the Concacaf Champions League by Cruz Azul. He explained that the focus shifts between league and international competitions, emphasizing respect for their rivals and the pursuit of their objectives.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the impressive records of Cruz Azul and America heading into the Clausura 2025 Liguilla semifinals?
Cruz Azul, under Vicente Sánchez, has an 18-game unbeaten streak with 14 wins, 8 draws, and 1 loss. America, led by André Jardine, has not lost a postseason series since 2005, with an impressive 11-series unbeaten run in Liga MX playoffs, losing only once in 21 matches.
- How has Vicente Sánchez impacted Cruz Azul’s performance?
Sánchez has led Cruz Azul to an impressive 14-win, 8-draw, 1-loss record, with a goal difference of 40-17. His success against America, having not lost any of the five matches played under his tenure, highlights his crucial role in Cruz Azul’s recent achievements.
- What is America’s mindset heading into the Clausura 2025 Liguilla semifinals against Cruz Azul?
Under André Jardine’s leadership, America remains focused on their objectives and respects Cruz Azul as a rival. The team acknowledges the shift in focus between league and international competitions, emphasizing continuous improvement and a strong work ethic.
