Puebla vs Cruz Azul: Unmissable Liga MX Clash

The Estadio Cuauhtémoc is set to host a high-stakes Liga MX encounter this Friday as struggling Puebla welcome the might of Cruz Azul. With the season’s finish line in sight, both sides have everything to play for in this potentially season-defining clash.

For the hosts, Puebla, the 2023/24 campaign has been one to forget. Rooted to the foot of the Liga MX table, Nicolás Larcamón’s men have managed a paltry three wins from 15 outings. Their desperate form has left them six points adrift of safety with just two games remaining.

In stark contrast, Cruz Azul’s stellar campaign sees them occupy the final playoff berth. Just two points separate Juan Reynoso’s side from an automatic qualification spot for the Liguilla final stage. With key men firing on all cylinders, La Máquina will fancy their chances of taking a huge step towards cementing a top-four finish.

Team News

Puebla’s woes have been compounded by a series of injury setbacks. Star striker Facundo Waller remains sidelined with a knee complaint, while midfielder Daniel Alvarez is also stuck in the treatment room. However, there is a glimmer of positivity with the return of Salvador Reyes from suspension.

The visitors have a relatively clean bill of health. The absences of Uruguayan marksman Gabriel Fernandez and wideman Cristian Jimenez present setbacks, but Reynoso can still call upon the prolific Chilean Iván Morales to lead the line.

Predicted Lineups

Puebla (4-3-3): Rodríguez; Ferrareis, Olmedo, Silva, Angulo; Velasco, De Buen, Navarro; Sansores, Cavallini, Álvarez

Cruz Azul (4-4-2): Mier; Huescas, Lira, Piovi, Rivero; Rodríguez, Faravelli, Rotondi, Antuna; Morales, Gutierrez

Pre-Match Thoughts

For Puebla, this represents a daunting final home fixture of a forgettable season. While mathematical salvation remains possible, Larcamón’s troops have left themselves with a mountainous task to preserve their top-flight status. A gritty, determined display could yet provide fans with lasting memories ahead of an uncertain future.

As for the capital club, momentum is very much on their side. An eight-match unbeaten run has propelled them into the playoff picture, and few would bet against them extending that streak on Friday. With an array of attacking quality at Reynoso’s disposal, the omens appear ominous for the embattled hosts.

This clash promises plenty of drama, tension and world-class quality as contrasting campaigns meet in Puebla. For the home faithful, avoiding a seismic drop into the second tier is the sole objective. But for the heavyweight visitors, loftier targets are firmly in their sights as the business end of the season looms into view.