Club América claim Clásico Nacional victory over Chivas to advance to Copa MX Semifinals

Club América became the third side to clinch their place in the Copa MX Semifinals after a 59th minute goal from Bruno Valdez put Las Águilas on their way to a 2-0 victory over rivals Chivas Guadalajara in the first of two Clásico Nacionals this week.

The night begun brightly for América when an acrobatic effort from star striker Nico Castillo brought an excellent save from Chivas goalkeeper Miguel “Wacho” Jimenez.

Jimenez was by far the busier keeper and did well to turn away a long distance shot from Jose Guadalupe Hernandez Clemente.

Las Águilas then almost got the breakthrough moments later after Nico Castillo once again came close with a one-time shot from inside the box.

Club América remained on the offensive, but Chivas did come close twice, first through Dieter Villalpando and then Alexis Vega.

América’s dominance eventually transferred to the second half, as Clemente almost scored a golazo with a superb volley in the 54th minute.

After withstanding nearly 60 minutes of Águila pressure, Chivas finally conceded a goal. From a corner, Bruno Valdez found himself with a loose ball inside the box before pouncing and giving the azulcremas the lead.

Chivas offered little in reply, and with the final whistle approaching, substitute Nicolas Benedetti took advantage of a Jair Pereira mistake at the back to finish low and into the back of the net and give Las Águilas a place in the Semifinals of the Copa MX.

Both teams are set to meet again on Saturday, this time for their 2019 Liga MX Clausura regular season meeting.

As for the Copa MX, Las Águilas will face Xolos de Tijuana in the Semifinals.