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The Apertura 2025 quarterfinals continue with one of the most anticipated showdowns as Chivas host Cruz Azul in Guadalajara.
With both teams entering the postseason under drastically different circumstances, this matchup promises intensity, strategy, and high stakes.
A High-Pressure Duel To Close The First Leg
The opening leg of the Apertura 2025 Liguilla quarterfinals will conclude with a tightly contested meeting between two historic rivals.
Chivas arrive with strong momentum after a solid end to the regular phase, while Cruz Azul come into the playoffs with concerns following a difficult final stretch.
Chivas Enter Confident After Strong Late-Season Form
Guadalajara recovered their rhythm in the last three matches of the tournament, building renewed confidence heading into the playoffs.
Star forward Armando González, also known as La Hormiga, ended the season as one of the top scorers, tied with Paulinho and Joao Pedro—and notably the only Mexican among the leading goal-getters.
Cruz Azul Face Key Absences For The Quarterfinal Clash
Despite spending much of the season battling for first place, Cruz Azul closed Matchday 17 with a painful loss to Pumas. The defeat came with serious consequences:
- Their starting goalkeeper Kevin Mier suffered an injury and is out for the remainder of the Liguilla.
- Midfield leader Lorenzo Faravelli was expelled during the match, leaving the team without a critical piece in the midfield.
These setbacks force coach Nicolás Larcamón to make tactical adjustments. Chivas will look to capitalize on these absences and use their home-field advantage at Akron Stadium to secure a lead before traveling to Mexico City for the second leg.
Match Schedule: Chivas Vs. Cruz Azul – Apertura 2025 Quarterfinals
- Stage: Quarterfinals, Apertura 2025
- Date: Thursday, November 27
- Time: 8:07 PM (CDMX) / 9:07 PM (ET)
- Venue: Akron Stadium
- Where to Watch:
- Amazon Prime (Mexico)
- TUDN (United States)
Probable Lineups
Chivas Starting XI
Raúl Rangel; Daniel Aguirre, José Castillo, Bryan González, Luis Romo; Omar Govea, Fernando González, Richard Ledezma, Roberto Alvarado; Efraín Álvarez, Armando González.
Cruz Azul Starting XI
Andrés Gudiño; Willer Ditta, Gonzalo Piovi, Ignacio Rivero, Jorge Sánchez; Erik Lira, Jeremy Márquez, Carlos Rodríguez, José Paradela; Ángel Sepúlveda, Carlos Rotondi.
The first leg between Chivas and Cruz Azul is shaping up to be a fierce and evenly matched playoff battle. With Guadalara’s strong finish and Cruz Azul’s important absences, the dynamics are set for a dramatic encounter at Akron Stadium.
Whether Chivas can take full advantage of playing at home or Cruz Azul can overcome their challenges will determine how the second leg unfolds in Mexico City.
Fans can expect intensity, strategy, and top-level football throughout this Liguilla showdown.