By Reinaldo Oliveros
Nov 22, 2024, 07:54 AM EST
After a dramatic qualification in the Play In by beating Xolos in a penalty shootout, the Águilas del América are already thinking about the quarterfinals of the Apertura 2024.
In this instance, they will face Toluca, a team that recently gave them a painful 4-0 win on the last day of the regular phase.
For Azulcrema coach André Jardine, this duel represents more than an opportunity to advance: it is revenge.
“There is not a person in Mexico who does not know that we are not the team from the last game you are referring to,” declared Jardine when questioned about the defeat suffered at the Nemesio Diez. “It will be a tough game, I have no doubts, but whoever wants to become champion must take a step forward and show what they are for.”
The Brazilian strategist showed confidence in his team’s potential, but also recognized the difficulties involved in facing the Red Devils.
“We think exclusively of Toluca. He is a rival that always costs work, of a similar level to ours. They will be two great games. “We are happy to face them and understand how to face this challenge,” he added.
Jardine highlighted that, despite having been the team with the most points accumulated between both tournaments in 2024, performance in the Liguilla will be what defines success.
“What we did before matters little here. It will matter who plays better, who is more effective. If the game is balanced, we will have to take advantage of the opportunities.”
The coach made it clear that America does not fear any rival, although he respects the power of Toluca.
For Jardine, this matchup will be a crucial test for the title aspirations of the Eagles, who will seek to correct the mistakes of the recent past and demonstrate that they are ready to take the next step on their path to the championship.
The table is set for a high-intensity series between two teams that have a lot to prove. América and Toluca will face each other in a tie that promises extreme emotions.
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