Chivas de Guadalajara triumphed over Club América 1-0 on March 5, 2025, during the first leg of their Round of 16 match at the Concacaf Champions Cup held at the Estadio Akron. The victory not only marks the start of three superclásicos between these fierce rivals but also signifies a promising beginning for Chivas under their new coach, Gerardo Espinoza.
The match began at 19:30 local time, attracting significant attention as both teams aimed for advancement. Broadcasting was handled by Azteca 7, Azteca Deportes Digital, and TUBI, with fans eagerly anticipating the clash between these two giants of Mexican football.
Despite the scoreline, the match remained tense and hard-fought, characterized by physical play and numerous fouls. Although Chivas was our home side, it was America who began the game with more threatening attacks. Just 15 minutes in, controversy arose when Luis Romo of Chivas had the ball strike his hand inside the penalty area; no penalty was awarded, much to the chagrin of the visiting side.
Chivas, boosted by their home support, managed to gain momentum as the match progressed, but it wasn’t until the 77th minute when the decisive moment came. A corner taken by Mateo Chávez saw América goalkeeper Luis Malagón punch the ball out, but it ricocheted off the unfortunate Sebastián Cáceres, inadvertently scoring for Chivas.
After the own goal, America fought fiercely to equalize, demonstrating their resilience. Alejandro Zendejas and Henry Martín were particularly active, pressing Chivas’ defense hard. Martin even tested Chivas goalkeeper Raúl Rangel with powerful attempts, but Rangel stood firm, making key saves to deny the visitors.
“El gol en contra no cayó nada bien en el América que se fue por todo para buscar el empate,” organizers reported, reflecting the pressure placed on Chivas as America launched their last-ditch efforts.
Although America sought to turn the tide, the solid defense and strategic play of Chivas saw them outlast their rivals as the match concluded 1-0. This win is particularly sweet as it puts the Guadalajara side at an advantageous position with away goals not being counted against them, and it sets the stage for the return leg.
After the game, fans of Chivas celebrated the result, as it marked not only the end of America’s streak against them but also highlighted Espinoza's initial success as coach. He had just one training session to prepare for the game and still managed to deliver victory, invigorated by the second half’s impressive display.
The return match will be held at Ciudad de los Deportes on March 12, 2025, where Chivas will aim to maintain their lead and secure progression to the next round of the tournament.
With another match upcoming this Saturday for the Clásico Nacional during the Clausura 2025, Chivas will need to channel this momentum to continue their success against America. Fans expect nothing less than another gripping encounter between the two historic clubs, both eager to outdo the other not only for triumph but for regional bragging rights.
This victory serves as both vindication and momentum for Chivas who had faced adversity coming to this match. The club, having battled through uncertainties and challenges within their squad this season, is now poised to reclaim their honor against their most bitter foes.
Such performances craft narratives rich with historical significance; Chivas and America not only battle for titles but also for pride, and this first leg showcased the intensity inherent to their rivalry. The Concachampions scores high on the stakes for both teams, evidenced by the unyielding spirit witnessed on the field.
If this match serves as any indication, expect the final two clashes between Chivas and America to be nothing short of exhilarating.