On Thursday, May 23rd, 2024, the passionate fans of Liga MX witnessed a thrilling encounter between Cruz Azul and América in the first leg of the Clausura 2024 final. The match, played at the Estadio Azteca, ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving everything to be decided next Sunday.

Cruz Azul, also known as La Máquina (The Machine), struck first. In just the 9th minute, Uriel Antuna converted a penalty kick, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. The penalty was awarded after a foul on Antuna himself inside the box.

América, the reigning champions and nicknamed Las Águilas (The Eagles), didn’t take long to respond. Just seven minutes later, Julián Quiñones equalized for the visitors. A lapse in concentration by the Cruz Azul defense allowed Quiñones to tap the ball in from close range after a well-placed cross.

The first half was an intense battle for midfield control. Both teams created chances, but neither could find the back of the net again. Cruz Azul looked dangerous on the counter-attack, while América threatened with their wing play.

The second half continued in the same vein. Both sides displayed strong attacking intent, but clear-cut opportunities remained scarce. Goalkeepers for both teams, Cruz Azul’s Kevin Mier and América’s Guillermo Ochoa, made crucial saves to keep the score level.

Drama unfolded late in the game. América striker Henry Martín had a golden opportunity to take the lead, but his shot was brilliantly saved by Mier. Moments later, Cruz Azul nearly snatched the win themselves, but a goal-line clearance by América defender Sebastián Córdova denied them the advantage.

As the final whistle blew, the score remained 1-1. The result leaves the championship wide open heading into the second leg, which will be played at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday, May 26th.

This draw adds another chapter to the historic rivalry between Cruz Azul and América. Both teams will be looking to claim Liga MX glory, with Cruz Azul aiming for their first title in over five years and América seeking to defend their crown. With everything on the line, next Sunday’s second leg promises to be an electrifying encounter.