The quarterfinals of the Liga MX Clausura 2025 began with an electrifying first-leg encounter between Pachuca and Club América, played at the iconic Estadio Hidalgo. With both teams carrying rich histories and passionate fanbases, the matchup lived up to expectations, delivering intensity, drama, and goals — all setting the stage for a gripping second leg.
Match Overview
The opening half was marked by high energy and tactical discipline. Pachuca started with purpose and managed to break the deadlock early in the 21st minute. Venezuelan forward Salomón Rondón demonstrated his experience and composure by finishing a well-placed effort past América goalkeeper Luis Malagón, putting the Tuzos 1-0 ahead.
América, never one to back down under pressure, responded with resilience. They steadily regained control of the midfield, and their efforts paid off just before halftime. In the 45+1 minute, Henry Martín, known for his clutch performances, capitalized on a defensive lapse and slotted home the equalizer, silencing the home crowd and shifting momentum just before the break.
The second half continued with both sides searching for a winner. Pachuca threatened with pace on the wings, while América maintained possession and created danger through quick transitions. Despite several chances, neither side managed to break the deadlock, and the match ended in a well-contested 1-1 draw.
Confirmed Starting Lineups
Pachuca (Coach: Guillermo Almada):
Goalkeeper: Carlos Moreno
Defenders: Sergio Barreto, Jorge Berlanga, Andrés Micolta, Bryan González
Midfielders: Pedro Pedraza, Erick Sánchez, Miguel Rodríguez, Alan Bautista
Forwards: Nelson Deossa, Salomón Rondón
Club América (Coach: André Jardine):
Goalkeeper: Luis Malagón
Defenders: Israel Reyes, Igor Lichnovsky, Ramón Juárez, Salvador Reyes
Midfielders: Jonathan dos Santos, Álvaro Fidalgo, Alejandro Zendejas, Javairo Dilrosun
Forwards: Diego Valdés, Henry Martín
Key Performances
Salomón Rondón (Pachuca): Led the attack with physicality and precision, scoring his side’s only goal and remaining a constant threat.
Henry Martín (América): Demonstrated his leadership and striking instinct, bringing América back into the game at a crucial moment.
Álvaro Fidalgo (América): Controlled the tempo in midfield, linking up effectively with the attacking line.
What’s Next?
The draw means the tie is finely balanced heading into the second leg, which will be played at the Estadio Azteca on Saturday, May 11 at 6:00 PM (Central Mexico Time).
With the away goal rule no longer in effect in Liga MX, a win for either side will send them to the semifinals, while another draw would lead to extra time and potentially penalties. Club América will aim to leverage their home advantage, while Pachuca will look to replicate past upsets and eliminate one of the tournament favorites.
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