Goalless draw leaves everything oppen for Concacaf Champions Cup clash
The second Clásico Nacional in just over a week ended in a scoreless draw as Chivas and Club América battled to a 0-0 stalemate on Saturday in Liga MX. While the match lacked goals, it delivered drama, intensity, and a red card that could impact Guadalajara’s preparations.
With this result, all eyes now turn to Wednesday night, when these two bitter rivals will meet again in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16. Chivas holds a narrow 1-0 aggregate lead, adding even more weight to what will be the biggest clash of the month.
A Tactical Battle with Few Clear Chances
AMÉRICA NO PUDO GANARLE A CHIVAS CON UN FUTBOLISTA MÁS EN LA CANCHA🐐🦅
— Frecuencia Deportiva (@FD1340AM) March 9, 2025
Igualdad de 0-0 en el segundo Clásico Nacional, correspondiente a la Jornada 11 del Clausura 2025.#RadioramaDeOccidente pic.twitter.com/tnUq3rNpYc
Despite the electric atmosphere at Estadio Akron, neither team was able to break the deadlock. Chivas had some of the best opportunities, particularly through Javier «Chicharito» Hernández, who continues to find his rhythm after returning to Guadalajara. On the other side, América nearly stole the win in stoppage time when Israel Reyes rattled the crossbar, but goalkeeper Tala Rangel’s stunning save kept the score level.
The match took a controversial turn in the 70th minute when Chivas’ Cade Cowell was shown a red card for a dangerous tackle on Rodrigo Aguirre. The sending-off put Guadalajara on the back foot, forcing them to defend deep as América increased the pressure.
A Defining Moment Awaits in the Champions Cup
The draw in Liga MX means that neither team will carry extra momentum into Wednesday’s decisive Concacaf Champions Cup match. However, Chivas’ one-goal advantage from the first leg gives them a slight edge.
Club América will need to be sharper in attack after struggling to create clear-cut chances in both recent meetings. Meanwhile, Chivas must find a way to cope with the absence of Cowell and ensure their defense remains solid.
One thing is certain—this third Clásico Nacional in March promises fireworks. A spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals is on the line, and for either team, a win would mean not just continental progression, but also bragging rights over their fiercest rival.
Who will rise to the occasion? We’ll find out on Wednesday night.
