Cruz Azul Stuns América In Thrilling Liga MX Clásico Joven
Cruz Azul pulled off a dramatic 2-1 victory over archrivals Club América in Sunday's Liga MX Clásico Joven, reigniting one of Mexico's fiercest soccer rivalries. The match, played at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, drew massive attention from US fans as Liga MX continues growing in popularity north of the border.
The game turned in the 78th minute when Cruz Azul's Uriel Antuna scored the winner after América had equalized just minutes earlier. The result shakes up the Liga MX standings, with América missing a chance to solidify their playoff position while Cruz Azul keeps their postseason hopes alive.
This rivalry matchup is trending in the US today because Liga MX consistently outperforms MLS in American TV ratings. Sunday's game aired on Univision and TUDN, networks available in most US cable packages. Social media erupted with reactions from Mexican-American fans, who make up Liga MX's core US audience.
Club América, known as "Las Águilas," entered as favorites but struggled against Cruz Azul's organized defense. The loss snaps América's five-game unbeaten streak in all competitions. Cruz Azul goalkeeper Kevin Mier made several crucial saves to preserve the lead in stoppage time.
The heated derby saw eight yellow cards as tensions flared throughout. América fans expressed frustration on social media, particularly with manager André Jardine's late substitutions. Cruz Azul supporters celebrated the rare away victory in the rivalry, their first at Estadio Azteca since 2021.
Liga MX's popularity in the US continues rising, with 2025 regular season matches averaging 946,000 viewers on Spanish-language networks - nearly triple MLS averages. The league's passionate fanbases and historic rivalries like this one drive its stateside appeal.
Both teams return to action next weekend, with América facing a critical match against Monterrey while Cruz Azul takes on Puebla. The result keeps the Liga MX playoff race wide open with just four weeks remaining in the season.
