Thu Nov 28 03:11:02 UTC 2024: **Xolos Look to Upset Top-Seed Cruz Azul in Liga MX Quarterfinal Clash**
TIJUANA, MEXICO – The Tijuana Xolos, making their first Liga MX quarterfinal appearance in over five years, will face a daunting challenge this Wednesday when they host the top-seeded Cruz Azul at Estadio Caliente. The first leg of this two-legged series marks a significant achievement for the Xolos, who clawed their way into the playoffs after defeating Atlas in the play-in round.
Manager Juan Carlos Osorio has overseen a dramatic turnaround for Tijuana, employing unorthodox tactics including frequent squad rotation and positional experimentation. This approach, while surprising, has proven effective, as evidenced by the team’s recent victory over Atlas. Key players like Raul “Pantera” Zuniga, who scored in both play-in matches, will be crucial to Tijuana’s chances.
However, they face a formidable opponent in Cruz Azul, who dominated the Apertura 2024 season, boasting the league’s best offense and defense. With a record-setting 42 points and stars like Carlos Rotondi and Angel Sepulveda, Cruz Azul are clear favorites. Their high-tempo, counter-attacking style poses a significant threat to Tijuana. The Xolos will need to capitalize on home-field advantage, having only lost once at Estadio Caliente during the regular season, to stand any chance of upsetting the odds. A victory for Cruz Azul in this first leg would heavily favor them going into the second leg in Mexico City on Saturday.
First Piper 