In a thrilling display of skill and determination, América Femenil secured their spot in the Liga MX Femenil final with a commanding 2-0 victory over their fierce rivals, Chivas Femenil, in the second leg of the Clausura 2025 semifinal. The match, held on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, concluded with an aggregate score of 4-2 in favor of Las Águilas, marking yet another playoff elimination for Chivas.
The highly anticipated clash between América and Guadalajara showcased the intensity of the Clásico Nacional. After a gripping first leg that ended in a 2-2 draw, América entered the match with the advantage of having finished at the top of the regular season standings. They only needed a draw to advance but were determined to secure a decisive victory.
From the outset, América displayed aggressive intent, dominating possession and applying relentless pressure on Chivas’ defense. Despite some early resistance, the breakthrough came just before halftime when Kiana Palacios opened the scoring in stoppage time. With a deft chest control followed by a precise finish, Palacios found the back of the net in the 45+1 minute, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
As the second half commenced, the momentum shifted further in América's favor. Just three minutes after the restart, Montse Saldívar doubled the lead with a well-placed tap-in from a perfectly executed cross. The goal, scored in the 48th minute, effectively extinguished any hopes Chivas had of mounting a comeback.
Despite some late-game efforts, Chivas struggled to create any significant scoring opportunities. Their best chance came from Alicia Cervantes, who was kept at bay by a resolute América defense. The match concluded with Chivas unable to find the net, cementing América's place in the final.
This semifinal series once again highlighted the fierce rivalry between América and Chivas, two of the most storied clubs in Mexican football. The first leg, played at Estadio Akron, saw both teams trade blows, with goals from Licha Cervantes (who scored twice) for Chivas and contributions from Saldívar and Nancy Antonio for América. The aggregate tie-breaker favored América due to their superior league position, a rule that ultimately proved decisive.
América's victory not only secures their place in the final but also marks a significant milestone for the team, as they aim for their third league title. Under the guidance of coach Ángel Villacampa, the squad has developed a high-intensity playing style that combines solid defense with explosive offense, evidenced by their impressive tally of 60 goals during the regular season.
Looking ahead, América will now await the outcome of the other semifinal match between Pachuca and Monterrey, which is set to be decided on Monday, May 6, 2025. Monterrey holds a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg, and the winner will face América in the final.
With this victory, América Femenil not only reaffirms their status as a powerhouse in women's football but also sends a clear message to their opponents: they are ready to reclaim the title after falling short in the Apertura 2024 final. The team’s determination and resilience will be crucial as they prepare for the championship match.
As the dust settles on this thrilling semifinal, fans are left buzzing with anticipation for the final showdown. Will América lift the trophy once more, or will their next opponent rise to the occasion? Only time will tell as the Liga MX Femenil season reaches its climax.
