Cruz Azul Faces Double Blow Ahead of Key Match Against León

MÉXICO CITY, Mexico — Cruz Azul will take the field against Club León tonight missing key players Kevin Mier and Gonzalo Piovi due to last-minute health and injury issues, respectively. This match, part of the Jornada 16 of the Liga MX Clausura 2025, is crucial for Cruz Azul, who is looking to solidify their position in the league standings.

Kevin Mier, the starting goalkeeper for La Máquina, was ruled out after being diagnosed with gastroenteritis, marking the first match he has missed since joining the team in 2024. Mier reported feeling unwell to the medical staff on Tuesday.

“It’s unfortunate to lose Kevin, especially for such an important game. We have great confidence in Andrés Gudiño, who will step up as the starter,” said Vicente Sánchez, head coach of Cruz Azul.

Tonight’s match against León is particularly significant as both teams chase the top positions in the league. As of now, León sits third in the table with 30 points, just two ahead of Cruz Azul. The Panzas Verdes are looking for a win to secure their spot in the playoff rounds, having recently snapped a streak of disappointing results.

Andrés Gudiño, filling in for Mier, is making his first Liga MX start this season. He has not played in the league since the Apertura 2023, a period during which he served mainly as a backup. Gudiño’s last competitive appearance was during the Concacaf Champions Cup against Real Hope in February.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the team. We’ve prepared well for this match, and I’m looking forward to helping us get a result,” Gudiño commented.

Additionally, Jesús Orozco will replace Piovi, who is sidelined due to a right hamstring strain. Orozco has been a more active presence on the pitch this season, participating in 12 matches, while Piovi accumulated 1019 minutes before his injury.

Cruz Azul currently ranks fourth in the standings with 29 points, having remained unbeaten in the last 12 matches. The squad’s strong run is attributed to focused training and strategic adjustments made by Sánchez since he took control of the team.

Looking ahead, the match at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario is expected to draw significant attention, not just because of the stakes but also due to the presence of Colombian star James Rodríguez on the opposing side. Rodríguez, who plays for León, is seen as a key figure in their aspirations to clinch a playoff spot.