Chivas Gear Up for First Clash Against America in Concacaf Championship

GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Club Deportivo Guadalajara, commonly known as Chivas, is set to face their long-time rivals America on March 5, 2025, in the first leg of the Round of 16 of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. This highly anticipated match marks the first of three encounters between the two teams in just eight days, heightening the stakes and excitement among fans.

Chivas will be led by newly appointed head coach Gerardo Espinoza, who will make his debut at the helm of the most popular soccer team in Mexico. After conducting his first training session on Tuesday, Espinoza announced a roster of 23 players for the crucial encounter. “I trust these players to give their all on the field. This is a significant match, and we must be ready for any challenge,” Espinoza said.

The squad features notable players such as Raúl Rangel, Alan Mozo, José Castillo, and Javier Hernández, among others. After a recent victory over Pumas, Chivas look to capitalize on their momentum as they prepare to take on America.

America, managed by Jardine, will arrive at the match with their own momentum, having secured a convincing 3-0 win against Toluca in their last outing. The Blue-and-Yellow side, aiming for their first finals appearance in eight years, appears determined to advance against a rejuvenated Chivas team.

Historically, this will mark the third meeting between Chivas and America in CONCACAF competitions, with America previously emerging victorious in the semifinals of both 1984 and 2007. This adds another layer of intensity to the rivalry as both teams vie for a spot in the quarterfinals of the tournament.

As for the match details, Chivas advanced to this stage after defeating Cibao in the first round, where they secured a total aggregate score of 4-1. The match against America is expected to draw significant viewership, and fans can follow live broadcasts on multiple channels in both Mexico and the United States.

Key statistics suggest favorable conditions for Chivas, who have won seven out of their last nine home games in the Concacaf Champions Cup since 2008. Furthermore, Roberto Alvarado has proven to be instrumental in their attack, contributing to four of the last six goals scored against America.