Cruz Azul vs Mazatlán Prediction: Cruz Azul is favored to edge out Mazatlán with a 2-1 victory in this Leagues Cup Round of 16 match.
The Leagues Cup continues with an all-Mexican clash as Cruz Azul takes on Mazatlán in the Round of 16. This knockout match is set to take place at Audi Field in Washington D.C. on August 14, 2024, with kickoff scheduled for 12:00 AM local time.
Match Preview
Cruz Azul enters this fixture after a hard-fought victory over Orlando City in the previous round. The match ended goalless after regular time, with Los Celestes prevailing in a penalty shootout. This marks their third consecutive match decided by spot kicks in the tournament, showcasing their resilience under pressure.
Mazatlán, on the other hand, secured a narrow 2-1 win against DC United to advance. After a shaky start to their Leagues Cup campaign, losing 1-0 to New England Revolution, they’ve found their footing with back-to-back victories.
Predicted Cruz Azul vs Mazatlán Lineups and Formation
Cruz Azul Lineup (5-3-2): Sanchez, Ditta, Rivero, Giakoumakis, Faravelli, Mier, Romo, Lira, Rotondi, Torres, Piovi.
Mazatlán Lineup (4-2-3-1): Escoboza, Almada, Flores, Arciga, Colula, Del Prete, Meraz, Rubio, Gutierrez, Barcenas, Sanchez.
Cruz Azul is likely to stick with the five-at-the-back formation that has served them well in recent matches. Mazatlán may opt for a more attacking 4-2-3-1 setup to challenge their opponents’ defensive solidity.
Injured and Unavailable Players
Cruz Azul:
- Carlos Vargas: Out (foot injury)
- Gabriel Fernandez: Out (long-term knee injury)
Mazatlán:
Hugo Gonzalez: Doubtful (unspecified injury)
Where to Watch Live?
Fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. This streaming service is available in numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Cruz Azul vs Mazatlán Live Streaming and TV Schedule
Here’s the broadcast information for some top-tier countries:
- USA: MLS Season Pass
- Mexico: MLS Season Pass
- Canada: MLS Season Pass
- UK: MLS Season Pass
- Germany: MLS Season Pass
- France: MLS Season Pass
- Spain: MLS Season Pass
- Italy: MLS Season Pass
- Australia: MLS Season Pass
- Brazil: MLS Season Pass
Form Guide
Cruz Azul: W-W-D-L-W-W
Mazatlán: D-L-L-L-W-W
Cruz Azul’s recent form has been solid, with four wins in their last six matches across all competitions. Mazatlán has shown improvement in the Leagues Cup after a difficult start to their domestic season.
Head-to-Head
The head-to-head record heavily favors Cruz Azul, who have won five out of their six previous encounters against Mazatlán. This dominance will surely boost their confidence heading into the match.
Liga MX Standings
While the Leagues Cup is a separate competition, it’s worth noting the teams’ positions in the Liga MX table:
- Cruz Azul: 1st place (10 points from 4 matches)
- Mazatlán: 17th place (1 point from 4 matches)
This stark contrast in league form adds another layer of intrigue to the cup tie.
Who Will Win?
Given Cruz Azul’s superior head-to-head record and better overall form, they enter as favorites. However, Mazatlán’s recent upturn in the Leagues Cup suggests they shouldn’t be underestimated.
Cruz Azul vs Mazatlán Prediction: Cruz Azul 2-1 Mazatlán
Cruz Azul’s experience in tight matches during this tournament could prove crucial. Expect a close contest with Cruz Azul’s quality ultimately shining through.
Key Stats
- Cruz Azul has scored 9 goals in their 4 Liga MX matches this season, while Mazatlán has managed just 2.
- Mazatlán’s defense has been leaky, conceding 8 goals in 4 league games compared to Cruz Azul’s 1.
- Cruz Azul striker Georgios Giakoumakis will be looking to end a four-match goalless streak.
This Leagues Cup Round of 16 clash promises to be an intriguing battle between two teams with contrasting fortunes. Will Cruz Azul’s dominance continue, or can Mazatlán spring a surprise? The answer awaits at Audi Field.
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