América manager Guillermo Almada is already looking ahead to the Leagues Cup semifinal clash against Club de Fútbol Monterrey. The Uruguayan coach called the match a great spectacle and acknowledged the difficulty of facing the Rayados, as reported by Record this weekend.
América secured their place in the next round with a 2-0 victory over MLS side Columbus Crew. Goalkeeper Rodolfo Cota was important with three important saves, including a penalty stop. "We played a complete match because we got the qualification," Almada said in a press conference. The Águilas dominated large portions of the game but struggled in the final 15 minutes of the first half.
What did Almada say about Monterrey?
The América head coach did not hold back praise for their upcoming opponent. Almada stated that Club de Fútbol Monterrey has one of the most talented squads in Mexican football. "They have tremendous quality in their roster. It's going to be a very tough rival," the manager affirmed. The Rayados advanced to the semifinals after eliminating Chicago Fire, considered one of the best MLS teams in the tournament.
Despite the respect shown, the Uruguayan trusts in his own team's capabilities. "We also have our weapons and it's going to be a great match for everyone who can watch it," Almada concluded. The match will be played in the coming days as part of the busy schedule you can check on our fixtures page.
How does América arrive at the semifinal?
The win over Columbus Crew showed both strengths and areas for improvement. América controlled possession for long periods and built a two-goal advantage. However, the defense showed fragility near halftime, a situation where Cota had to emerge as the hero. A handball by Cristian Borja inside the box conceded a penalty that the goalkeeper managed to save.
Almada admitted they need to work more on the defensive side. "These three or four situations were lapses in concentration that we have to solve," he explained. The coach added that their playing idea is clear but they take many risks that expose the backline, a process that requires more work time.
What is the context of this classic matchup?
This encounter revives a historic Mexican football rivalry with a Leagues Cup final ticket at stake. Club de Fútbol Monterrey reaches this stage after a solid campaign in the international tournament. The team currently managed maintains a competitive block reflected in our squad list.
For América, this match represents the opportunity to reach a final under Almada's leadership, who is undergoing an adaptation process with the team. The Uruguayan seeks to correct defensive details while maintaining the offensive volume the team has generated. Both sides carry the pressure of representing Liga MX in a competition against MLS teams.
The winner of this semifinal duel will face the victor of the other matchup, also to be played this week. Club de Fútbol Monterrey's squad, full of experienced stars, will look to impose their quality to advance to the tournament's final stage.
