The historic rivalry between Cruz Azul and América soccer clubs in Mexico
Cruz Azul and Club America are gearing up for the 170th edition of the ‘Clasico Joven’ on Saturday, April 15, at the Estadio Azteca. The two teams have been fierce city rivals for decades, and this match is expected to be a thrilling encounter.
Cruz Azul won their third title against América in the final in August 1972, but América has been more consistent over the years and is currently in the Liga MX title race. In the recent Apertura 2018 final, América beat Cruz Azul 2-0 to win their 13th crown. However, only five players who took part in that final are still at their respective clubs.
Preview of the Liga Mexico Matchday 14 fixture between Club Leon and Cruz Azul
Before the Clasico Joven, Cruz Azul will face Club León on Matchday 14 of Liga MX. The game will be held at León Stadium in León. Club Leon is currently third with seven wins and 25 points, while Cruz Azul is eighth with six wins and 20 points.
In their last clash, Cruz Azul won 1-0 and they have won the last three matches played between the two teams. However, Club Leon will be missing out on Yairo Moreno, William Tesillo, and Jose David Ramirez due to multiple injuries. On the other hand, Club Leon is coming off a massive win against Violette AC (5-0) in the CONCACAF Champions League Quarter-Finals.
In terms of form, Club Leon has been solid with four wins and a draw in the last five matches played. They have scored 15 goals and conceded just four goals during that period. However, Cruz Azul is unbeaten in five games as the designated hosts, winning four. The upcoming match is expected to build momentum for the remaining matches.
Experts believe that the match total is expected to be over 2.5 goals, and both teams are likely to score. Betting tips suggest the match could end in a draw or Cruz Azul winning.
Cruz Azul set to host city rivals Club America
Cruz Azul will host city rivals Club America in the highly anticipated Clasico Joven on Saturday, April 15, in a Liga MX Matchday 15 fixture. Both teams come into this game with different results from their previous matches.
Cruz Azul comes into the game off a goalless draw at Club Leon last weekend, while América beat Monterrey 2-1 at home. América has been more consistent this season and is currently in the title race. However, a win for Cruz Azul will draw them closer to their city rivals.
In their previous 169 clashes, América lead with a record of 61-55. Cruz Azul will be eager to close the gap and increase their chances of making it to the playoffs this season.
Predicted outcome and betting tips
The upcoming Clasico Joven between Cruz Azul and Club America is highly anticipated by fans across Mexico. Both teams have a lot to play for, and the result of this game could determine their fate in this season’s Liga MX.
Experts predict a low-scoring draw with a scoreline of 1-1. Betting tips include a draw, both teams to score, and under 2.5 goals.
Expected opening lineups for both teams are provided below:
Cruz Azul: Jesus Corona; Juan Escobar, Pablo Aguilar, Julio Dominguez, Adrián Aldrete; Roberto Alvarado, Luis Romo, Rafael Baca, Elias Hernandez; Jonathan Rodriguez, Santiago Gimenez.
Club America: Guillermo Ochoa; Jorge Sánchez, Emanuel Aguilera, Bruno Valdez, Luis Fuentes; Richard Sánchez, Pedro Aquino; Antonio López, Leo Suárez, Álvaro Fidalgo; Federico Viñas.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
