The epic rivalry between America and Cruz Azul is set to intensify as the two teams clash in the quarter-finals of the Concacaf Champions Cup. The first leg of this thrilling encounter will take place on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, with kickoff scheduled for 19:15 hours local time.
Having recently eliminated their arch-rival Chivas de Guadalajara with a convincing 4-1 aggregate score in the round of 16, America enters this match with momentum and confidence. Meanwhile, Cruz Azul also advanced to the quarter-finals after overcoming the Seattle Sounders, matching their opponent's performance with a 4-1 aggregate victory.
This match, often referred to as the Clásico Joven, is not just another game; it’s a battle steeped in history and emotion. Vicente Sánchez, the head coach of Cruz Azul, emphasized the significance of this rivalry, stating, "I believe this is the most important match in recent times. Everyone is looking forward to this game, and as an institution, we are eager for it. This match means a lot for the league and for both clubs."
As anticipation builds, the potential starting lineup for Cruz Azul includes goalkeeper Andrés Gudiño, defenders Jorge Sánchez, Willer Ditta, Gonzalo Piovi, and Jesús Orozco, along with midfielders Ignacio Rivero, Erik Lira, and Lorenzo Faravelli. The attacking front is expected to feature Carlos Rodríguez, Mateusz Bogusz, and Ángel Sepúlveda.
Fans will have multiple viewing options for this highly anticipated clash. In Mexico, the match will be broadcast on TV Azteca, while viewers in the United States can catch the action on TUDN USA and ViX Premium. Additionally, the game will be available for free streaming on the Tubi platform.
In an interesting twist, this match will be officiated by American referee Joseph Dickerson, who has a mixed track record with Liga MX teams. His previous matches have seen negative outcomes for Mexican clubs, raising the stakes even higher for both teams. "We are prepared for any challenges that may come our way, including the officiating," Sanchez remarked, indicating his team's readiness to focus on the game.
As the teams prepare to meet, Lorenzo Faravelli, a midfielder for Cruz Azul, expressed his excitement about returning to the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes. "We loved playing in our stadium, and our fans feel a connection to that venue. Tomorrow, we will return, and even though it may be painted in another color, we will try to paint it blue again," he said.
In terms of injuries, Cruz Azul will be without Omar Campos, who sustained an injury during the match against Chivas. Campos is undergoing tests to determine the severity of his condition, making him a notable absence for this crucial encounter.
The rivalry between America and Cruz Azul has been marked by intense matches and controversial moments, including a disputed penalty that decided the title in the 2024 Clausura tournament. This history adds an extra layer of intensity to the upcoming matches, with both teams eager to settle scores.
Looking ahead, the second leg of this quarter-final matchup is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the Estadio de Ciudad Universitaria, the new home of Cruz Azul. Fans are already buzzing about the prospect of seeing their teams face off not just twice in the Champions Cup but also in the Liga MX, with another encounter set for Saturday, April 12, 2025.
With the stakes so high and the teams so evenly matched, this series promises to be a thrilling showcase of Mexican football. Both clubs are determined to advance, and the excitement is palpable as they prepare to write the next chapter in their storied rivalry. Who will emerge victorious in this first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarter-finals? Fans will be glued to their screens as the action unfolds.
