Tactical Battle Ends Scoreless in Ciudad de los Deportes
Cruz Azul and América played to a goalless draw in the first leg of the Mexican Apertura semifinal on Thursday, leaving the series wide open for Sunday’s decisive match at the same venue, Ciudad de los Deportes. The game was defined by strategy, strong defenses, and stellar goalkeeping performances.
Cruz Azul Showed More Offensive Ambition
Led by Argentine coach Martín Anselmi, Cruz Azul was more aggressive in the first half. Carlos Rodríguez tested América’s goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón in the first minute, followed by a powerful shot from Rodolfo Rotondi in the 6th. Malagón, however, stood tall, ensuring América went into halftime without conceding.
Goalkeepers Shine in the Second Half
The second half saw both teams pushing for a goal, but the keepers stole the show. Malagón denied Ángel Sepúlveda in the 54th minute and Argentine Gonzalo Pivoi ten minutes later. On the other end, Colombian Kevin Mier kept Cruz Azul in the game, stopping attempts from Uruguay’s Brian Rodríguez in the 59th and Cervantes in the 65th.
The suspense builds as Sunday promises an electrifying clash to decide the tournament’s first finalist.
