LIGA MX
Who are the best players in Cruz Azul and Chivas in Liga MX?
We just 2 more rounds to go, we take a look at the best players from each side in this intriguing game.
Despite not being the clash of titans that generates the hype only Chivas and América can do, the truth is that Chivas vs Cruz Azul is about as close as it gets. The upcoming battle will be number 145 between these two giants of Mexican football and on both sides, hugely important and exciting players are set to feature.
Chivas will be looking to finish in the top four of the tournament while Cruz Azul are looking to finish the season strong after not winning in their last two games. Here is a run-down of the players to keep an eye on during the game:
CHIVAS
Alexis Vega, attacker
After coming back from injury, Alexia Vega has performed well ever since his return against América. His influence has been seen clearly in the games against Necaxa and León as well as in the exciting 3-3 draw against Atlas. Vega is the engine in the team that is exciting the fans thanks to their positive recent results.
Fernando Beltrán, midfielder
‘Nene’ Beltrán, with 14 games played, is rightly considered a key element of the side and against Cruz Azul he will be looked upon to deliver and keep up the magic that his football style so often produces. He can support in both attack and defence and is a key part of the rise in confidence surrounding the team as they look to continue their charge late on in the season.
Victor Guzmán, midfielder
The famous ‘Pocho’ Guzmán, with his controversial and questioned style, has been undoubtedly key in Chivas’ performance this season with 5 goals in 13 games. He will be one of the keys for Chivas if they wish to impose their style on Cruz Azul and unlock their defence.
Miguel Jiménez, goalkeeper
After being criticised by almost everyone in Mexico for his erratic underperformances, he has come into his own and turned into a firm name on the team sheet, helping his side to having the fourth best defence in the division. The 33-year-old has kept 5 clean sheets in 15 and has not conceded a goal for 3 games.
Gilberto Sepúlveda, defender
And finally, ‘Tiba’ Gilberto Sepúlveda is perhaps the key defender for the side as he patrols the centre of defence. His recent performances have ensured that Chivas are no pushovers at the back and he has shown himself to be something of a fan favourite this season. He has accumulated 1248 minutes across 14 games and will definitely be one to watch against Cruz Azul.
CRUZ AZUL
José de Jesús Corona
José de Jesús Corona’s work-rate is fundamental for Cruz Azul as they look to finish as high as possible in the Clausura 2023. The truth is that a mistake against América in the last game did not leave a great taste in the mouth but nevertheless, his performances have shown him to be an important player and as such, the hopes of Cruz Azul are pinned on him for the game.
Rodrigo Huescas
The young player has been tried and tested to the maximum in Ricardo Ferreti’s side this season and he has managed to play admirably well, contributing heavily in attack for the side. His influence will depend on whether or not the team can find space to attack safely and create clear chances for him to add to and put away from his favoured right side.
Carlos Rodríguez
‘Charly’ Rodríguez is the player with the most responsibility on his shoulders during this game for Cruz Azul, and he has the huge obligation of performing well and finding spaces to attack. The 26-year-old will lead the transition for his team and much of Cruz Azul’s good work will depend on his output on the night.
Uriel Antuna
Without a doubt, much of the attacking output of the side will come through Antuna, who is obliged to carry the team and generate what the team expect of him. Now, against Chivas, he is once again one of the players to follow and must perform under the weight of expectation that generally accompanies him.
Ignacio Rivero
When the versatile Uruguayan pulls on the Cruz Azul shirt, the chances of something happening on the pitch increase considerably. However, given his ability to go missing on the pitch, as happened against América, the results are not so favourable. Rivero will be a player to keep an eye on, potentially for positive and negative reasons. Now is the time, if ever, to stand up and be counted.
