The Excitement Builds-up for the 170th Edition of Clasico Joven
This weekend’s matchup between Cruz Azul and America in Liga MX is nothing less than a historic rivalry between two of the biggest Mexican football teams. Dubbed the ‘Clasico Joven,’ this match is set to be the 170th edition of this thrilling fixture. Fans across Mexico, as well as those following the game from all over the world, are eagerly awaiting this exciting clash.
A Look Back at the Long-standing Rivalry between Cruz Azul and America
Cruz Azul and America have faced each other 169 times previously on Mexican football pitches. The rivalry dates back to the final of August 1972 when both teams faced off in their first league game against each other. Since then, they have played each other many times, both in regular league games and final phases. One of the most notable matches between these two clubs was the Apertura 2018 final where America won by a scoreline of 2-0 to lift their 13th crown.
Although only five players who took part in that final remain at their respective clubs, this fixture carries an intense history that still strikes a chord with fans across Mexico. On a somewhat interesting note, goalkeeper José de Jesús Corona, who is still defending Cruz Azul’s goal post even at the age of 42, played in that memorable encounter.
How Do Cruz Azul and Club León Stack Up?
In their upcoming fixtures, Cruz Azul will face Club León. Currently ranked in eighth place with 21 points, Cruz Azul will aim to clinch maximum points as they take on a third-placed Club León with 28 points.
The last time these two teams met, Cruz Azul won by a margin of 1-0. However, they will face an uphill battle as Club León is currently on a four-match winning spree with a draw in their last five games. In contrast, Cruz Azul has won three of their previous four matches and is coming off a win against Pachuca.
Club León fans will miss out on the attacking trio of Yairo Moreno, William Tesillo, and Jose David Ramirez who are unavailable due to injuries. Still, the team boasts an impeccable record in their previous games, scoring 15 goals in five matches and conceding only four.
Cruz Azul’s last six home games have been narrow one-goal margin victories. The visitors are expected to put up a good fight and Carlos Rodriguez might be the man to watch out for as he will be eyeing to score or assist for Cruz Azul.
Betting Tips for the Upcoming Clash
Punters could go for a draw result or both teams to score as these are often the case in America’s high-scoring fixtures. Betting enthusiasts could also place their bets on under 2.5 goals as both teams’ recent form indicate they have not been prodigious in front of goal.
Match Prediction
Although both teams carry separate current form and track record, this game is predicted to end in a low-scoring draw with an expected full-time scoreline of 1-1. Nonetheless, the fixture between these two long-standing rivals promises to deliver an exciting match with a lot of energy and passion on display from players and fans alike.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
