Cruz Azul vs América Lineups for the First Leg Final
The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as América and Cruz Azul clash in the 2024 Clausura MX League final. With Las Águilas vying for their first two-time championship in short tournaments and La Máquina seeking redemption against their arch-rivals, anticipation runs high.
The series kicks off on Thursday, May 23, at the Ciudad de los Deportes Stadium. Cruz Azul faithfuls are banking on their team’s home advantage to seize control early and gain a crucial edge for the return leg at the Azteca. However, América’s undefeated away record in the Clausura 2024 Liguilla suggests that Cementeros won’t have it easy.
The battle promises twists and turns as both teams vie for supremacy in what is expected to be a fiercely contested encounter.
The first leg of the Clausura 2024 final between Cruz Azul and América is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 p.m. Mexico City time, 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
In the lead-up to the final, América secured their spot by finishing atop the regular phase of the Clausura 2024 with an impressive 35 points. Their journey through the Liguilla saw them overcome Pachuca in the quarterfinals with a two-goal aggregate tie and eliminate Chivas in the semifinals with a single-goal victory. Cruz Azul vs América
On the other hand, Cruz Azul claimed the second position in the general table with 33 points, boasting a record of 10 wins, three draws, and four losses. In the playoffs, they displayed dominance by convincingly defeating Pumas in the quarterfinals and securing a semifinal victory over Rayados with an aggregate score of 2-2.
With both teams showcasing formidable performances throughout the season, the stage is set for a thrilling battle for supremacy in Mexican football. Cruz Azul vs América
Cruz Azul and América ended their first-leg final clash with a 1-1 draw at the Ciudad de los Deportes Stadium, leaving the outcome of the Clausura 2024 title hanging in the balance for the upcoming Sunday showdown. Despite América’s near escape with victory, Cruz Azul managed to level the score, setting up a thrilling conclusion to the series.
The match saw América asserting themselves as the more dangerous side, although they failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Uriel Antuna and Julián Quiñones were the goal-scorers, showcasing their prowess in front of the net.
Cruz Azul took an early lead just 6 minutes into the game when Luis Ángel Malagón fouled Uriel Antuna inside the box, leading to a penalty which Antuna calmly converted to put the Machine ahead. Cruz Azul vs América
However, América quickly responded, showcasing their offensive prowess as they leveled the score in the 16th minute. Henry Martín initiated the play by winning possession from Carlos Salcedo, before setting up Julián Quiñones who calmly slotted the ball into the net to equalize for Las Águilas. Cruz Azul vs América
With both teams displaying their attacking capabilities, the stage is set for an intense and closely contested second leg as they battle it out for the coveted Clausura 2024 title. Cruz Azul vs América
Cruz Azul struggled to find their rhythm initially but managed to regain composure, even ending the first half with a notable long-distance shot by Rodrigo Huescas, which was impressively saved by Luis Malagón. Cruz Azul vs América
América once again displayed its offensive power in a second attempt on the rival goal, but this effort did not result in a goal. Israel Reyes, from the right wing, sent a cross to Henry Martín, who found himself unmarked in the rival area. His shot, however, was stopped by Kevin Mier. The rebound fell to Julián Quiñones, but he couldn’t finish comfortably, and Willer Ditta cleared the ball off the line to prevent an Azulcrema goal. Cruz Azul vs América
Cruz Azul dominated possession but lacked depth, while América remained dangerous even with limited ball control. At the 66-minute mark, a long shot by Israel Reyes left Julián Quiñones one-on-one with Kevin Mier. Quiñones managed to get a cross shot off, but it was weak, allowing Willer Ditta to arrive in time to prevent the Eagles’ second goal.