The anticipation is palpable as the iconic rivalry known as El Clásico Nacional culminates once again tonight, March 12, 2025, at 8:30 p.m. Mexico City time. Club América and Chivas Guadalajara will clash for the second leg of the Round of 16 of the Concacaf Champions Cup at the Ciudad de los Deportes stadium, bringing with it not just the glory of winning but also the stakes of advancing to the quarterfinals.
This match marks the third consecutive encounter between these traditional rivals, with the previous two outcomes leaving fans on the edge. The first leg concluded with Chivas taking home a 1-0 victory, providing the Rebaño Sagrado with significant momentum as they head to this decisive game. With the away goals rule still fresh, Chivas finds itself with the advantage, needing to simply maintain their lead or offer no more than one concession to secure their passage.
Andrés Jardine, the head coach of Club América, faces the uphill task of overturning the deficit at home. His side's performance has been lackluster compared to expectations, having only managed to draw their last encounter 0-0 against Chivas, which adds pressure as they now stand as runners-up of the Liga MX but sit vulnerable to elimination if they cannot secure at least two goals.
Chivas’ strong defensive performance under coach Gonzalo Espinoza adds to their confidence. The team has successfully held América at bay and is poised to utilize their counter-attacking style, which has seen them excel against their rivals. With the return of Víctor 'el Pocho' Guzmán, who has recovered from over a year out due to injury, Chivas is expected to be at full strength, presenting serious threats to América’s defense.
Fans are reminded of the exclusive viewing arrangement; Tubi will be the sole streaming service offering live coverage of the match. After decisions made to cut off traditional broadcast options like TV Azteca for the second leg, viewers across the country can only turn to this platform for their live feed and moment-to-moment updates.
The build-up to the match is vibrant, with social media buzzing with predictions and betting odds. According to RushBet, the betting line shows Club América at -186, with the Chivas at +420 to win and draws sitting at +400. These odds have fluctuated based on recent performances, with both clubs setting up for what appears to be another tense chapter of their historic rivalry.
Team lineups are also expected to play pivotal roles. For Club América, anticipated starters include goalkeeper Luis Malagón and key attacking players like Henry Martín and Álvaro Fidalgo, who will surely be tasked with finding the back of the net if they hope to turn the tide. Chivas is likely to field Raúl Rangel at goal, supported defensively by Alan Mozo and José Castillo, along with dynamic forwards like Alan Pulido and Roberto Alvarado, both known for their scoring capabilities.
Before the match, social media posts have fueled excitement among the supporters. Official accounts are urging fans to rally behind their teams, setting the stage for what promises to be not just another game but a historical event. The stakes are high; not only does pride hang in the balance, but also the opportunity to move forward to face Cruz Azul, who awaits the outcome to contest.
With hearts racing and legends colliding on the pitch, the Ciudad de los Deportes is set to witness one last chapter of this exciting trilogy. Will Club América's storied past of seven Concacaf titles propel them to another victory, or will Chivas continue to write their narrative of resilience? Fans from both sides are ready to experience the thrill, reminding everyone why these matches are called El Clásico Nacional.
Fans are encouraged to engage with the action via Tubi and to keep up with every goal and highlight as history revisits yet again on the sacred grounds of Mexican football. This match not only defines the season but also reminds us of the storied legacy of rivalry and passion surrounding two of Mexico’s most storied football teams, Club América and Chivas Guadalajara.