The Tijuana Xolos are set to face off against the league leaders Cruz Azul in a highly anticipated Liga MX quarterfinal match. This exciting encounter is scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the Estadio Caliente in Tijuana, Mexico, kicking off at 7:10 p.m. PST. Fans can catch all the action live on TUDN and VIX.
This match marks the first leg of the quarterfinal series, with the return game slated for Saturday, November 30, in Mexico City. The stakes are high as both teams aim for a spot in the semifinals of the Liga MX postseason.
Club Tijuana, known as the Border City Dogs, finished seventh in the Liga MX standings and recently navigated through the play-in stage to secure their place in the quarterfinals. After an initial setback against Club America, the Xolos bounced back impressively, defeating Atlas to clinch the final playoff spot. This achievement is particularly significant, as it represents the first time in over five years that Tijuana has reached the quarterfinals.
Under the guidance of manager Juan Carlos Osorio, the Xolos have shown remarkable improvement this season. Osorio, known for his innovative coaching methods, has employed a strategy of squad rotation, making seven changes between the matches against Club America and Atlas. This approach has kept the players alert and adaptable, a crucial factor as they prepare for the dynamic play of Cruz Azul.
One of the standout players for Tijuana has been Raul “Pantera” Zuniga, who has scored in both of the team’s play-in matches. His current form is promising as the team gears up for the challenge posed by Cruz Azul, known for their rapid counterattacks and high tempo.
Cruz Azul enters the quarterfinals as the top team from the Liga MX 2024 Apertura season, having accumulated an impressive 42 points—a record in the 17-game format. The team has not only showcased the best offense in the league, scoring 39 goals, but they also boast the strongest defense, conceding just 12 goals throughout the season. Manager Martin Anselmi has cultivated an exciting style of play that has made Cruz Azul the clear favorites for the title.
Among the star players for Cruz Azul, Carlos Rotondi has emerged as a key figure, contributing significantly with seven goals and four assists. His performance, along with the collective strength of the team, sets a formidable challenge for the Xolos as they prepare to defend their home turf.
The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing their strengths and strategies. As Tijuana aims to capitalize on their home advantage, Cruz Azul will be looking to assert their dominance and continue their impressive run in the tournament.
As anticipation builds for this quarterfinal clash, fans from both sides are gearing up for an electrifying atmosphere at Estadio Caliente, where the stakes are high and every moment counts. The outcome of this match could set the tone for the remainder of the postseason, making it a must-watch event for Liga MX enthusiasts.
