Cruz Azul and América will renew their rivalry on Saturday, September 12, at Estadio Azteca in what is known as El Clásico Joven, or the Young Classic. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:15pm local time.
According to the source, the rivalry officially began on August 30, 1964, when the two clubs met for the first time at Estadio 10 de Diciembre in Ciudad Cooperativa Cruz Azul, Hidalgo. The first final between the clubs took place on July 9, 1972, when Cruz Azul won 4-1 and claimed the championship.
Since 1996, the clubs have faced each other 82 times. América has won 33 matches, Cruz Azul has won 22, with 27 draws. In terms of goal difference, América has scored 114 goals compared with 99 for Cruz Azul. However, in the last five league encounters, Cruz Azul has made things difficult for América, limiting the Águilas to just one victory.
Recent playoff history favors América. Since the Clausura 2024 final, the two clubs have played 10 times, with three wins each and four draws. However, in knockout series—including the Clausura 2024 final, Apertura 2024 semifinal, and May 2025 semifinal—América has won all three encounters.
For Saturday’s match, Cruz Azul may receive reinforcements. According to the source, Gonzalo Piovi is expected to be available, while Carlos Rotondi could also see minutes. Erik Lira is another option after returning to full team training following a failed move to Monaco. Rodolfo Rotondi and Juan José Calero have also recently returned from injuries that kept them sidelined during the Apertura 2026 campaign.
América also has positive news regarding player availability. Luis Malagón is available again after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in March. Alejandro Zendejas could also be in contention after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee following the 2026 World Cup. América arrives as the Apertura 2026 leaders with 16 points from six matches and one game still in hand.
Key facts
- The match takes place Saturday, September 12, at Estadio Azteca at 9:15pm local time
- Cruz Azul won the first Clásico Joven final 4-1 on July 9, 1972
- Since 1996, América leads the all-time series 33-22 with 27 draws
- América has won the last three knockout series between the clubs
- Luis Malagón returns to América after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon