América fails to capitalize on home advantage
Cruz Azul and América played to a 0-0 draw in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals this Tuesday. The Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes witnessed an intense match, but a lack of finishing left everything to be decided in the return leg, which will be played next Tuesday at the Estadio Universitario.
América dominates but lacks precision
From the start, América aimed to dominate on their home turf. They controlled possession and created several chances, especially in the first 20 minutes. However, Cruz Azul’s goalkeeper Kevin Mier remained solid and kept the score level by denying any danger in his goal. América’s lack of finishing and Cruz Azul’s strong defense prevented them from taking the lead.
Cruz Azul levels the game
As the match progressed, Cruz Azul began to balance the play. While América initially had more control, Cruz Azul ended the first half with 58% possession. Despite generating a few dangerous chances, neither team managed to score, leaving the match tied at the break.
High intensity in the second half
The second half was more intense. Both teams pushed for the advantage, with multiple fouls interrupting the flow of the game. Cruz Azul came close to scoring in the 57th minute when Ángel Sepúlveda had a clear chance, but América’s goalkeeper Luis Malagón made an important save.
The return leg is crucial
The 0-0 draw leaves the series completely open. América benefits from the away goals rule, as in case of another draw, they would advance. However, not securing a win at home could weigh heavily in the return leg. Both teams are gearing up for a decisive match that will determine who advances to the semifinals, where they will face the winner of Tigres UANL vs. Los Angeles Galaxy.
Match details:
0. América: Luis Malagón; Sebastián Cáceres, Israel Reyes, Cristian Borja, Kevin Álvarez, Ramón Juárez; Álvaro Fidalgo, Erick Sánchez, Diego Valdés (Rodrigo Aguirre m.85); Alex Zendejas (Jonathan Dos Santos m.78), Brian Rodríguez.
Coach: Andre Jardine.
0. Cruz Azul: Kevin Mier; Jorge Sánchez, Willer Ditta, Erick Lira, Gonzálo Piovi, Lorenzo Faravelli (Jesús Orozco m.72); Luka Romero (Alexis Gutiérrez m.60), Carlos Rodríguez (Andrés Montaño m.87), Ignacio Romero; Mateusz Bogusz (Amaury Morales m.87), Angel Sepúlveda (Gabriel Fernández m.72).
Coach: Vicente Sánchez.
Goals: None.
Referee: Joseph Dickerson. Yellow cards: Ignacio Rivero, Willer Ditta, Jorge Sánchez, Rodrigo Aguirre.
Incidents: First leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals held at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, Mexico City, 2,240 meters above sea level.
