FC Juárez vs. Club América: Liga MX Apertura 2025 Match Recap

On July 11, 2025, the Mexican Liga MX Apertura 2025 kicked off with an exciting clash between FC Juárez and Club América at the Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. The match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, marked the start of the new season, with both teams showing flashes of brilliance and areas for improvement. Below is a detailed recap of the match, including key moments, player performances, and what this result means for both sides.

Pre-Match Context

FC Juárez, known as Los Bravos, entered the match looking to make a strong start after a disappointing 2024 Apertura season, where they finished ninth with 24 points but failed to advance past Pumas UNAM in the Play-In round. Under coach Martin Varini, Juárez aimed to leverage their home advantage and passionate fanbase, with the stadium reportedly packed to its 19,703 capacity.

Club América, the reigning Liga MX giants, came into the season with high expectations despite a trophyless 2024-25 campaign, where they were eliminated in the Concachampions quarterfinals, lost the Clausura final to Toluca, and fell to LAFC in the Club World Cup Play-In. Led by coach André Jardine, the Eagles boasted a talented squad featuring players like Álvaro Fidalgo, Alejandro Zendejas, and Sebastián Cáceres, though they were without key players Henry Martín and Ángel Malagón due to injuries. América’s historical dominance over Juárez—winning 9 of their last 14 encounters—made them favorites heading into the match.

Match Highlights

The match began at 11:00 PM ET (9:00 PM local time) under the refereeing of Ismael Rosario López Peñuelas. América, known for their high-pressing, possession-based style, controlled much of the ball early on, as expected. Juárez, however, adopted a cautious approach, focusing on defensive solidity to counter América’s attacking prowess.

First Half: América Takes the Lead

In the 39th minute, Club América broke the deadlock with a goal from Alejandro Zendejas, their star winger. The goal showcased América’s ability to capitalize on their attacking talent, with Zendejas finishing a well-constructed move to put the Eagles ahead 1-0. This early strike energized the traveling América fans and put Juárez on the back foot.

Juárez struggled to create clear chances in the first half, relying on their wide forwards to spark attacks. However, América’s midfield dominance, led by Álvaro Fidalgo, limited Juárez’s opportunities, and the score remained 1-0 at halftime.

Second Half: Drama and Equalizer

The second half saw Juárez come out with renewed energy, buoyed by their home crowd. The match took a significant turn in the 70th minute when América’s Erick Sánchez received a red card, reducing the Eagles to 10 players. This shift gave Juárez a numerical advantage and a surge of momentum.

In the 80th minute, FC Juárez capitalized on their opportunity, scoring an equalizer to make it 1-1. The goal, credited to the home side, came from a well-executed play that exploited América’s depleted lineup. Despite the late push from both teams, neither could find a winner, and the match ended in a hard-fought draw.

Key Statistics and Performances

• Ball Possession: América dominated possession, as expected, but Juárez’s defensive resilience kept them in the game.
• Shots and Chances: Detailed statistics on shots and chances were not fully available, but América’s attacking intent was evident, while Juárez relied on counterattacks.
• Player Ratings: Alejandro Zendejas was a standout for América, earning praise for his goal and overall influence. For Juárez, goalkeeper Jurado and winger Jairo Torres were notable for their contributions.
• Discipline: The red card to Erick Sánchez was a pivotal moment, shifting the game’s dynamics. No significant disciplinary issues were reported for Juárez.

Post-Match Analysis

For FC Juárez, the draw represents a positive start to the Apertura 2025, especially against a powerhouse like Club América. The equalizer demonstrated their ability to seize opportunities, and their defensive organization held firm against América’s high press. However, their inability to secure a win at home highlights the need for more clinical finishing, as they aim to climb the standings and secure a playoff spot this season.

Club América will view the result as a missed opportunity, given their early lead and historical dominance at the Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez, where they are unbeaten since April 2019. The red card to Erick Sánchez disrupted their game plan, and the absence of key players like Henry Martín likely limited their attacking options. Despite the draw, América’s quality and depth suggest they remain title contenders.

Where to Watch and Follow

The match was broadcast on Azteca 7, Caliente TV, and the Azteca Deportes app in Mexico, with streaming options available on VAVEL Mexico and Sofascore for live updates. In the United States, fans could watch on Fox Deportes.

What’s Next?

FC Juárez will look to build on this result as they face upcoming matches in the Apertura 2025, aiming to improve their home form after winning only one of their last seven home games. Club América, meanwhile, will aim to regain their winning momentum and address their recent struggles in away competitive matches, where they’ve gone winless in seven straight games. Both teams will also prepare for the Leagues Cup, with América bypassing the group stage as defending champions.

Conclusion

The 1-1 draw between FC Juárez and Club América set the tone for an exciting Liga MX Apertura 2025 season. While América showcased their attacking flair, Juárez’s resilience and home support earned them a valuable point. As both teams move forward, this match serves as a reminder of the competitiveness and unpredictability of Mexican football. Fans can expect more thrilling encounters as the season unfolds.