Today : Mar 29, 2025
Sports
26 March 2025

Cruz Azul Faces Chivas Amid Controversial Sanction

Chivas appeals stadium ban as they prepare for crucial Liga MX clash with Cruz Azul

This weekend marks the return of Liga MX action with the highly anticipated match between Cruz Azul and Chivas de Guadalajara, scheduled for Jornada 13 of the Clausura 2025. This clash has stirred considerable controversy due to a sanction imposed on the Chivas, which they are expected to serve during this match. According to the Disciplinary Commission, "the stadium will be sanctioned with a one-match veto due to repeated improper conduct by its fans. After the Jornada 11 match between Club Deportivo Guadalajara and Club América, a bottle was thrown onto the field, injuring a player. This sanction will apply to the Jornada 13 match," the organization stated in a release.

Despite the sanction, journalist José María Garrido reported that Chivas has filed an appeal, requesting permission to allow a percentage of fans—up to 50%—to attend the match. "Chivas is asking to be allowed a percentage of fans that does not exceed 50 percent. All signs point to them being allowed to have some fans, and the Mexican Football Federation and the Disciplinary Commission may be lenient with this sanction," Garrido noted in a report for Claro Sports.

The match is set for Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 21:05 local time at Estadio Akron, which could potentially host half its capacity depending on the outcome of Chivas' appeal. Fans eager to catch the action can watch the Cruz Azul vs. Chivas match on Amazon Prime, which holds the broadcasting rights for all matches involving the Rebaño Sagrado.

In preparation for this crucial encounter, both teams participated in friendly matches during the FIFA date, ensuring they maintained their momentum heading into Jornada 13. Chivas recently drew 1-1 against Bravos de Juárez at the Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez, leaving them in the tenth position in the league. Although they still have a mathematical chance to climb the standings, facing Cruz Azul will be a significant challenge. Coach Gerardo Espinoza will need to devise a solid strategy to secure a win.

On the other hand, Cruz Azul currently sits in fifth place with 22 points, thanks to six wins, four draws, and two losses. The team, under the guidance of Vicente Sánchez, comes off a convincing 3-0 victory against Atlético San Luis, a team that has struggled throughout the season.

As the match day approaches, the stakes are high for both sides. Chivas needs a win to solidify their position in the playoff race, while Cruz Azul aims to maintain or improve their standing in the league. A loss for Chivas could jeopardize their chances of direct qualification to the Liguilla, while Cruz Azul is eager to secure all three points to bolster their playoff position.

The Chivas vs. Cruz Azul match is one of five games scheduled for Jornada 13 of Liga MX on March 29. With the match time set for 21:05 hours, Central Mexico time, fans are advised to tune in early. The venue, Estadio Akron, remains in limbo due to the sanction, but the match is still expected to proceed, potentially behind closed doors if the appeal is not successful.

For viewers in the United States, the match will not be available on traditional television but can be streamed via platforms like Prime Video, fuboTV, and PeacockTV. As anticipation builds, predictions are already surfacing, with 90min forecasting a close game, suggesting a final score of Chivas 1, Cruz Azul 2.

As both teams prepare for this vital clash, the atmosphere is charged with excitement and tension. Fans are left wondering if Chivas will be allowed to host their supporters and how the sanction will impact their performance on the field. With both teams looking to make a statement, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter in the Liga MX calendar.