In a thrilling encounter that showcased the intensity of Mexican football, Cruz Azul triumphed over their fierce rivals Club América in the quarterfinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup (Concachampions 2025), securing a 2-1 victory that sent shockwaves through the tournament. The match, held at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, was marked by a stellar performance from Ángel Sepúlveda, who netted both goals for La Máquina, leading them to a much-needed win against a team they have historically struggled to overcome in knockout stages.
With this victory, Cruz Azul not only advanced in the tournament but also eliminated América, a team that has been a formidable opponent for them in recent years. The last time Cruz Azul managed to defeat América in a direct elimination match was over a decade ago, making this win a significant milestone for the club.
Sepúlveda's double was crucial in this encounter, with the first goal coming in the 32nd minute, setting the tone for the match. His second goal, a well-placed shot from outside the box, sealed the deal in the 75th minute, ensuring that Cruz Azul would not only advance but do so with confidence. "We played as a team, and it showed on the pitch. This victory means everything to us, especially against a team like América," Sepúlveda remarked after the game.
On the other hand, América's only goal came from a penalty taken by Rodrigo Aguirre in the dying moments of the game, specifically at the 90+6 minute mark. While the late goal added a layer of drama to the match, it was too little, too late for the Águilas, who were left to ponder yet another early exit from a tournament they had hoped to win.
For Cruz Azul, this victory is not just a step forward in the tournament but also a moment of redemption after years of disappointing performances against their rivals. The club has faced a challenging history in Liguilla against América, with the last victory coming in 2014. This win, however, ignites hope among fans and players alike that Cruz Azul is on the path to reclaiming their status as a powerhouse in Mexican football.
One of the standout stories from this match was that of Amaury Morales, a young talent who has been making waves since his debut. Morales, who has become a fan favorite, scored a memorable goal in a previous encounter against América during the Apertura 2024 semifinals, showcasing his potential as a future star for the club. His father, Omar Morales, spoke proudly of his son's journey, highlighting the emotional connection they share through football.
Amaury's story is one of resilience and determination. After being cut from Cruz Azul's youth ranks at the age of 13, he did not give up on his dream. His father, an Uber driver, played a crucial role in his return to the club. "I wanted to give him another chance, so I went to La Noria and asked if there was an opportunity for him," Omar recalled. This determination led to Amaury's successful return to the club at the age of 15, where he has since become a key player.
Morales made his first-team debut on September 15, 2023, against Mazatlán, and quickly made an impact, earning the most minutes on the field for Cruz Azul in the current season. His first goal in the Primera División came on August 24, 2024, against Querétaro, but it was his goal against América that truly captured the hearts of fans. Scoring in the 85th minute of that semifinal match, Morales demonstrated his composure and skill under pressure, leading to a moment of pure elation for both him and his family.
Omar Morales shared the emotional moment when he missed his son's historic goal. "I was in the bathroom when he scored. I heard the crowd erupt and knew something amazing had happened. It was a moment of pride, a moment I will never forget," he said, his voice filled with emotion. Despite the heartbreak of their eventual elimination, the family sees this as just the beginning of a brighter future for Amaury and the club.
The rivalry between Cruz Azul and América is one of the fiercest in Mexican football, with countless battles fought over the years. The recent victory by Cruz Azul not only serves as a psychological boost for the players but also as a reminder to fans of the club's rich history and potential for greatness.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Cruz Azul to see if they can build on this momentum. With players like Sepúlveda and Morales stepping up, the team looks poised to make a deep run in the Concachampions. Their next challenge will be crucial, as they aim to continue their quest for silverware and restore pride to their passionate fanbase.
In a sport where emotions run high, the story of Amaury Morales is a testament to the spirit of perseverance and the bond between father and son. As Cruz Azul looks to the future, they carry with them the hopes of many fans who believe that this could be the dawn of a new era for the club. With young talents emerging and a renewed sense of purpose, Cruz Azul is ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.
