By Franco Domínguez
In a game highlighted by missed opportunities from both teams, it took just one play and one moment of brilliance to make the difference in the first of two matches at Shell Energy Stadium.
Club León’s Díber Cambindo was the man who broke the deadlock in the 80th minute, finishing off a set piece after a clever touch from Daniel Arcila.
It was redemption for Cambindo, who had missed the game’s first scoring opportunity early in the match when América goalkeeper Fernando Tapia made a nice save to keep him from finding the back of the net.
Las Águilas were the better team in the first half but lacked efficiency with the final touch, failing to capitalize on several opportunities and keeping Club León in the match.
Raphael Veiga had one of those chances for Club América, seeing his shot blocked with the net wide open after Brian Rodríguez won the ball back in the first half.
A couple of minutes later, Club León goalkeeper Óscar García lost the ball on a goal kick, but América’s attack was unable to capitalize despite having a two-on-one opportunity against him. García then made amends before halftime, making a save on Alejandro Cárdenas’ close-range header.
The second half became a more even battle between the two teams, with La Fiera threatening early. But Tapia once again came up big for América, denying Jordi Cortizo with an important save.
At times, both teams bypassed the midfield and went quickly from one end to the other, turning the match into an open, back-and-forth affair. Still, neither side was able to find the breakthrough.
That changed after Alan Cervantes committed a foul in the 79th minute, giving León the set piece that ultimately led to Cambindo’s goal.
There was little response from América afterward, as Las Águilas were unable to find an equalizer. León held firm defensively in the closing minutes, protecting the 1-0 lead to secure the victory.
REACTIONS
- León Head Coach Javier Gandolfi
- “I reaffirm that it is an honor to be at the helm of this team; in the tournament, we advanced step by step, working and believing with great faith."
- "This was like a final and it was experienced as such; it was a very important goal for the Institution.”
- América Head Coach Guillermo Almada
- "Didn't like the attitude, the pace, nor the lack of hunger to seek the victory... We didn't pressure and didn't have the precision and will to attack constantly."
PLAYERS OF THE MATCH
- Club León
- Diber Cambindo, scored the game's only goal and was the team leader on total shots with three
GAME NOTES
- This is Club Leon´s first time finishing in the final 3 of the Leagues Cup tournament.
- This was Club Leon´s first win against America in all competitions since July 2022, breaking a streak of 9 games without a win.
- This is America's first official loss under head coach Guillermo Almada in all competitions so far.
CARDS/INJURY REPORT
- Yellow Cards:
- Club León: Jose Rodriguez, Salvador Reyes, Juan Guevara
- Club América: Alan Cervantes, Cristian Borja, Ramon Suarez, Brian Rodriguez, Erick Sanchez
LOOKING AHEAD
- León returns to Liga MX play at Pumas on September 10.
- América looks to continue their solid run in Liga MX when they face Cruz Azul on September 12.
