Raúl Gutiérrez: “Winning a tournament makes you stronger”

Cruz Azul won the Copa Sky, a pre-season tournament contested by 10 top-flight teams. In the final, they beat Chivas 2-0 away at a packed Estadio Akron. Although it was a friendly tournament, La Maquina coach Raúl Gutiérrez celebrated the victory, saying that titles, no matter what they are, always strengthen the team.

“I’m obviously left with the idea that whenever you win a tournament, whatever it is, it strengthens you. It was part of the short-term objectives that we had, to prepare ourselves well, to get form from these matches, and in that process to get into the habit of winning, which is fundamental in big teams.

“Since we arrived at Cruz Azul we have had this concept, they have known how to interpret it as it should be and today’s result speaks for itself, we came to the home of Chivas and we won, we beat another big team,” he said post-match.

“Finishing the pre-season like this leaves us with peace of mind because we have tried to get the team in the best possible shape. I think we did that. We must improve for the start of the tournament and be competitive to fight for the title, which is one of the objectives we have,” said “Potro” Gutiérrez after his team’s victory.

He also acknowledged that the squad is not yet finalised and that Cruz Azul will still be looking for additions. “We are looking to stregthen in defence. We hope to be even more complete with the players who will arrive,” the Mexican coach concluded.