Chivas to host Cruz Azul behind closed doors due to sanction

Chivas de Guadalajara will face a crucial match without the support of their fans. Following the ban on Estadio Akron due to the bottle-throwing incident during the National Classic, the club confirmed they will host Cruz Azul in Matchday 13 of Liga MX behind closed doors at their own venue, ruling out moving the game to alternate locations.

The decision comes after evaluating options like Estadio Jalisco, located less than 20 km from Akron (insufficient according to the regulations), and others like Victoria in Aguascalientes or Nou Camp in León, which would entail additional logistical costs, as reported by Mediotiempo.

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The Disciplinary Commission of the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) imposed the penalty following repeated violent incidents at Akron. During the 0-0 draw against América on March 9th, a glass bottle thrown from the stands landed near forward Rodrigo Aguirre and injured the leg of América's defender Kevin Álvarez.

Changing the venue would also require notifying seven days in advance and covering any additional expenses incurred by their opponent, as stipulated by the competition's regulations. Thus, the alternative was discarded, and Chivas is preparing for a crucial match for their postseason aspirations without the support of their own.