CONCACAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Could there be a ‘Clásico Nacional’ in the Concachampions?
América and Guadalajara have had contrasting starts to the tournament. The big question: could they cross paths at any point?
Since the draw for the 2024 CONCACAF Champions League was held, Mexican soccer fans have been looking forward to a possible confrontation between the América and Guadalajara. The two most successful clubs in the Liga MX are savoring the confrontation, but in order for it to happen, first they must get past the opening round.
América need to win
Surprisingly, the Coapa team crashed to a 2-1 defeat to Real Estelí, so they have it all to do in next week’s return. At least they will be playing at home and need to win by just one goal. Julián Quiñones late strike in the first leg could prove to be a crucial advantage in the overall, aggregate score.
Possible Round of 16 matchup
In the event that the Azulcremas concede another goal to the Nicaraguans, the Liga MX champions would need to score two goals to level the tie and force extra-time - or alternatively, score three to advance 4-3 on aggregate. Chivas meanwhile have it much easier - they beat Canada’s Forge FC 3-1 so even a slim defeat in the return leg would not be enough to stop them from advancing.
Both ties will be resolved next week. América host Real Estelí on Wednesday 14 February, while Guadalajara welcome Forge FC to Akron stadium on the same day. Should both of the Mexican teams win their First Round ties, there will be a Clásico Nacional as both will meet in the Round of 16 - the two-legged ties to be played between 5 and 14 March.
In the 2018 edition, América and Chivas came close to crossing paths. It failed to materialize after Toronto eliminated the Águilas and the Canadians ended up facing Guadalajara in the final. In that confrontation, those led by Matías Almeyda managed to lift the zone title, winning the final 2-4 on aggregate to be crowned champions for the second time.