On March 5, 2025, Chivas secured a narrow victory over their fierce rivals Americas, winning 1-0 at the Estadio Akron during the first leg of the Round of 16 of the Concachampions 2025. The match was intense, filled with tension and rivalries, representative of the historic clashes between the two teams.
Chivas entered this matchup with considerable pressure. Despite being the underdog, they hoped to surprise fans and critics alike after suffering fluctuated performances throughout the Liga MX season. They had also recently appointed Gerardo Espinoza as their head coach, who was tasked with steering the team back to glory. The victory against America would serve as both aspiration and morale boost for the players.
The only goal of the match came from Sebastián Cáceres, who inadvertently netted for Chivas after deflecting Mateo Chávez’s recenter attempt. This own goal at the 78th minute sparked jubilation among Chivas supporters, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal advance to the next round.
Americas entered the game as three-time Liga MX champions, boasting strong credentials and past triumphs. Their aspirations for the Concachampions title were highly publicized, particularly following their shocking exit by Pachuca one year earlier. Determined to set things right, America was eager to turn their fortune around but now faced another challenge as Chivas gained momentum.
Despite America’s aggressive beginning, it was Chivas who started to find their footing as the match progressed. The first half ended with no goals, with both teams struggling to break the deadlock. Chivas had previously suffered from poor performances against America, which made the anticipation and excitement surrounding the match even more palpable.
During the game, Chivas made several substitutions to reposition themselves strategically against America’s relentless offense. Changes began just before halftime, when Fernando Beltrán and Isaác Brizuela replaced Roberto Alvarado and Alan Mozo, aiding Chivas’ push for control over the match.
America too was not idle and saw changes on the field, bringing on Victor Davila, Cristian Calderón, Richard Sánchez, and Javairo Dilrosun, indicating their determination to equalize.
By the match's end, Chivas celebrated their hard-fought victory, feeling elated yet aware of the task still pending. With the second leg set to take place the following week at Mexico City, the team recognizes the mountain they must climb to validate this win out of their home ground.
Chivas coach Espinoza expressed pride and satisfaction following the match, emphasizing the necessity of carrying the momentum from this win. "We delivered on the field, and our players exhibited determination. Now, we maintain our focus on the upcoming leg," he remarked.
Despite the loss, America’s coach André Jardine remained optimistic, urging his players not to dwell on the defeat but to take the positives and push forward. "There's still another chance, and we must redeem ourselves at home," Jardine stated post-match.
Meanwhile, the night witnessed the Chivas fans rallying triumphant shouts and roars echoing throughout the stadium, united behind their team. The looming match against America next week brings overwhelming expectations, not just for Chivas to defend their slender lead but also for America to reclaim dominance.
The match on March 5 was not just another game; it encapsulated histories of rivalry, hopes for redemption, and the undying spirit of Mexican professional football.