On January 31, 2025, Liga MX fans eagerly await the electrifying match between Club Tijuana and Cruz Azul at Estadio Caliente, which kicks off at 21:05 hours. Both teams are desperate for points as they have experienced rocky starts to the Clausura 2025 season, and this match could be pivotal for their campaigns.
Cruz Azul, coached by Vicente Sánchez following the departure of Martín Anselmi, arrives with renewed confidence after defeating Necaxa 3-1. This victory marked their first of the season and propelled them to ninth place on the league table with five points. Despite the victory, Sánchez faces pressure to maintain consistency and push for slots at the top of the standings.
On the other hand, Tijuana, with head coach Juan Carlos Osorio, is recovering from a devastating 4-0 defeat to Tigres, which Osorio deemed their worst performance in eight months. Currently positioned twelfth with four points, Tijuana needs to regroup and deliver against La Máquina to avoid sliding down the table.
The limited point difference adds to the match's significance, with only one point separating Cruz Azul and Tijuana. A victory for either team could create valuable momentum for their respective seasons.
The match falls on the heels of notable performances; Cruz Azul's recent form is encouraging, and they’ll aim to build on their win against Necaxa. Tijuana, meanwhile, is determined not to suffer another heavy loss, especially on home turf.
For viewers wanting to catch the action live, the match will be broadcast exclusively on Caliente TV, starting at 21:05 hours, with pre-game coverage expected to begin shortly before kickoff. Fans can also follow minute-by-minute updates and post-match reactions online via AS.com.
Ticket prices for this emotional encounter range from $350 to $1,750, making it accessible for fans eager to witness live soccer action. The stakes are high, and both teams plan to showcase their best performances.
Probable lineups indicate Tijuana's Antonio Rodríguez will guard the goal, supported by Aarón Mejía, Ramiro Franco, and Jesús Gómez on defense, alongside Joe Corona and Fernando Madrigal controlling the midfield where Emanuel Reynoso and Kevin Castañeda may provide forward support, complemented by Raúl Zúñiga.
Cruz Azul will likely counter with Kevin Mier as their keeper, backed by Gonzalo Piovi and Willer Ditta as defenders. The midfield could feature Jorge Sánchez and Carlos Rodríguez, with players like Carlos Rotondi and Giorgos Giakoumakis expected to lead the attacking charge.
Historically, the encounters between Tijuana and Cruz Azul have been fierce, yielding plenty of goals and competitive play. Tijuana holds the edge with two wins and a draw against Cruz Azul over their last five matchups. The last meeting ended with Tijuana triumphant, but they will face challenges against Cruz Azul's tactical gameplay and hunger for success.
With both teams having plenty to prove, the match on January 31 promises to be thrilling. Expect fierce competition, passionate fan engagement, and the possibility of dramatic moments as these two teams battle for position.
Regardless of the outcome, this match is set to add another chapter to the storied rivalry, showcasing the best of Liga MX.