Predicted America Starting XI vs. Cruz Azul: Liga MX Semifinals

América on the Verge of History

América, the powerhouse of Mexican football, is on the cusp of making history once again. After a dominant performance against Toluca in the quarterfinals, where Rodrigo Aguirre’s goals secured a 2-0 victory, Las Águilas are now gearing up to face their city rivals, Cruz Azul, in the semifinals of the Liga MX Apertura 2024. The stakes are high as América aims to become the first team in the league’s history to clinch three consecutive titles this century. However, standing in their way is a resurgent Cruz Azul side, hungry for redemption after their defeat in the final against América earlier this year.

Key Players to Watch

With a mostly healthy squad at his disposal, América’s coach, André Jardine, is expected to field a strong lineup against Cruz Azul. The team will be missing Igor Lichnovsky due to injury, but the potential return of Diego Valdés adds firepower to the midfield. In goal, Luis Malagón, a rising star tipped to represent Mexico in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will be a key figure in América’s defense. The likes of Israel Reyes, Ramón Juárez, and Sebastián Cáceres will form a solid backline, while Alan Cervantes and Álvaro Fidalgo will anchor the midfield with their technical prowess. Up front, the attacking duo of Alejandro Zendejas and Brian Rodríguez, supported by Cristian Calderón on the wings, will look to break down Cruz Azul’s defense with their pace and skill.

Predicted América Lineup

Here’s how América could line up in the first leg of the semifinals against Cruz Azul:

– GK: Luis Malagón
– RWB: Kevin Álvarez
– CB: Israel Reyes
– CB: Ramón Juárez
– CB: Sebastián Cáceres
– LWB: Cristian Calderón
– CM: Alan Cervantes
– CM: Álvaro Fidalgo
– RW: Alejandro Zendejas
– LW: Brian Rodríguez

With a blend of experience and youth, América’s lineup is poised to pose a formidable challenge to Cruz Azul in what promises to be an electrifying encounter between two of Mexico’s football giants. As the semifinals kick off, all eyes will be on the players as they battle it out on the pitch for a shot at glory in the Liga MX. Stay tuned for all the latest updates, analysis, and highlights from this thrilling clash between América and Cruz Azul.