América Advances Straight to Liguilla Quarterfinals

In a stroke of luck, América’s qualification for the Liga MX Liguilla’s Quarterfinals via the ‘Play In’ could be the team’s much-needed breather. This progression means that the Eagles will have over two weeks without official games, allowing several injury-prone players to recuperate.

Malagón’s Injury: Not as Severe as Feared

Goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón, a cornerstone for América, incurred a scare during their 5-0 victory over Mazatlán. After receiving medical scans, an initial fear of a serious injury was alleviated.

“Malagón suffered a moderate ankle sprain. His estimated recovery time allows for his possible inclusion in the Liguilla’s opening matches to chase the tetracampeonato.”

Head coach André Jardine echoed a similar sentiment post-match, suggesting that Malagón’s injury was not of grave concern.

Seven Players Awaiting Liguilla Fitness

Currently, América has seven players nursing various injuries or in recovery:

• Brian Rodríguez and Diego Valdés are significant doubts for the Liguilla due to their respective injury severity.
• Cáceres and Néstor Araujo are managing fatigue-related muscular issues.
• Jonathan recurred with an ankle sprain.
• Cervantes, Valdés, and Brian are all under recovery periods.

The expectation is that most, except perhaps Rodríguez and Valdés, will be fit for América’s Liguilla kickoff.

Eagles’ Liguilla Opponents Yet to Be Determined

América awaits the outcome of the ‘Play In’ clash between Monterrey and Pachuca on Sunday to learn its Liguilla Quarterfinal rival. Until then, the Eagles can focus on mending their injury woes.