Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
The decisive second leg of the Liga MX Clausura semi-finals will take place on Monday at the Ciudad de los Deportes stadium, where local side America will host Cruz Azul. Here’s a bet with strong potential for success in this high-stakes match-up.
Match preview
Three-time reigning champions America return to their home ground with a clear mission: win at all costs. America approach the return leg in mixed form—two wins, a draw, and two defeats in their last five outings point to inconsistency. The narrow loss to Cruz Azul in the first semi-final, particularly painful after the opposition went down to ten men, has cast doubt over the squad’s self-belief.
With just three goals scored and four conceded in that stretch, the Eagles need a significant shake-up both in attack and defense. Yet, the club’s pedigree and experience speak volumes. On home turf, America know how to raise their game, and their roster is packed with match-winners capable of turning the tide at any moment. This team thrives under playoff pressure and will take the pitch with one goal in mind—overturn the deficit and reach the final for a fourth consecutive time.
The "Blue Locomotive" kicked off the semi-final clash with a crucial 1-0 victory over their archrivals in the first leg. The only goal was scored by Jose Ignacio Rivero in the 59th minute, finishing off a brilliantly worked corner delivered by Carlos Rotondi. Even after Rivero’s own red card six minutes later, Martin Anselmi’s men held their nerve and protected the lead.
However, a daunting trip to America’s stadium awaits, where one slip could undo all their hard work. Nevertheless, Cruz Azul are brimming with confidence: they are unbeaten in 19 matches across all competitions, showcasing remarkable consistency and organization. Holding a slender advantage, a draw will be enough to see them through to the final and give them a shot at a tenth Liga MX championship.
Probable line-ups
- America: Cota - Rossano, Vasquez, Streaming, Espinoza - Portales, Arredondo - Aritaga, Ramirez, Villar – Salas
- Cruz Azul: Mayer, Ditta, Lira, Orozco, Sanchez, Sepulveda, Rivero, Rotondi, Fernandez, Gutierrez, Rodriguez
Match facts and head-to-head
- America have failed to beat their rivals in four straight matches, losing twice by the narrowest of margins
- The "Both teams to score" bet has landed in two of the last five meetings
- The "Over 2.5 goals" market has hit in two of the last five encounters
Prediction
Bookmakers have faith in America, offering odds of 1.86 for a home win. We believe the hosts will get the job done on their own turf, though extra time remains a real possibility.
