Background on Cruz Azul and America
Cruz Azul, also known as “La Máquina,” is one of the most prominent football clubs in Mexico, based in Mexico City. They have a large and passionate fanbase, often referred to as “los celestes” or “the sky blues.” Cruz Azul has a rich history, having won numerous titles and accolades in Mexican football. Their rivalry with Club America, another powerhouse from Mexico City, is one of the most intense and followed in the country.
The Clash: Apertura 2025, Jornada 13
In the Apertura 2025 tournament, Cruz Azul and America faced off in a crucial match at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario (CU). Despite starting the game trailing 0-1, Cruz Azul managed to turn things around and won 2-1. The victory was marked by a unique atmosphere, with drone-designed rabbit silhouettes and a tifo displaying “Nuestra grandeza la construimos juntos” (Our greatness is built together).
Key Moments in the Match
- Early Mistakes: Both teams started with errors. Jorge Sánchez, a Cruz Azul defender, misjudged a long pass that allowed Brian Rodríguez to score for America at the 31st minute. Two minutes later, Kevin Álvarez’s weak pass was intercepted by Gabriel ‘Toro’ Fernández, who equalized the score.
- Turning Point: Ignacio Rivero capitalized on a weak clearance attempt by Ángel Malagón, scoring the winning goal for Cruz Azul at minute 67 with an assist from Rodolfo Rotondi.
- America’s Absences: America’s lineup was affected by player absences due to recent FIFA dates. Key players like Alejandro Zendejas, Álvaro Fidalgo, and Allan Saint-Maximin started as substitutes but only Zendejas played for a limited time before leaving due to physical discomfort.
Post-Match Reactions and Future Implications
America’s coach, André Jardine, acknowledged the challenges his team faced due to player unavailability and the short preparation time. Cruz Azul’s coach, Nicolás Larcamón, emphasized the importance of the match in the regular season phase and highlighted the upcoming double-game week for Liga MX.
Cruz Azul will face Necaxa midweek and host Monterrey at CU on the weekend. America, meanwhile, will play Puebla and Mazatlán in their upcoming matches, with uncertainty surrounding Alejandro Zendejas’s participation.
Both teams are part of Liga MX’s top five, alongside Toluca, Monterrey, and Tigres, as they prepare for the final phase. However, Cruz Azul must be cautious of America’s strong postseason record against them, having won the last three encounters.
