We’re going out there to win, not just to play by the book.

Henry Martín made the forceful declaration prior to América’s pivotal game against Pachuca. Club América fulfilled his promise by putting up a strong show and earning a spot in the 2025 Clausura semifinals.

Even though Las Águilas (The Eagles) could have guaranteed their place in the semifinals with a goalless draw, they refused to accept anything less. Rather, they assumed command and defeated Pachuca 2-0, with Alejandro Zendejas having a memorable evening.

Despite a Nervous Start, América Persisted

Pachuca had a close call with taking the lead early in the game. Perhaps their finest chance of the evening came when Alan Bautista scored a strong goal after Érick Sánchez’s deft assist. Everyone was holding their breath when the shot was taken, but Luis Ángel Malagón, América’s goalie, made a vital stop. By bouncing off the crossbar, the ball prevented América from falling behind.

América appeared to awaken at that moment. They had missed the decisive instinct to end the tie in the first leg. However, they established their rhythm this time and didn’t turn around.

The scoreboard is ignited by Zendejas.

After a quick counterattack, the first goal was scored in the fifteenth minute. The play began when Henry Martín pushed forward and gave Jonathan dos Santos the ball. Diego Valdés attempted a shot that bounced off the Pachuca defense after he swiftly lay it off to him. Alejandro Zendejas did not hesitate as the ball dropped to him precisely. He finished calmly and put the ball past the goalie to score it 1-0.

In addition to giving América the advantage, that goal completely stunned Pachuca’s emotional and mental stability. Their play revealed a decline in their intensity.

Pachuca’s hopes are dashed by the second goal.

For América, the momentum kept growing. In the 27th minute, just 12 minutes after the first goal, Kevin Álvarez ran brilliantly down the right flank and sent a low cross into the box. Zendejas was in the right position at the right moment once more. His second goal of the evening came as he slid in to meet the ball and tapped it home.

The supporters at Estadio Azteca erupted in cheers as América reached their peak. In addition to securing the lead, Zendejas’ brace demonstrated this América team’s attacking depth.

On the Sidelines, Tension Increases

It was obvious that both managers were under pressure. Pachuca coach Guillermo Almada was clearly irritated, not only by his team’s performance but also by the officiating. He believed that a number of América players’ fouls had gone uncalled. However, América’s coach, André Jardine, was as energetic as ever and urged his team to stay focused and intense.

Early in the second half, there was a significant shift in the game’s dynamics. Oussama Idrissi of Pachuca was sent off after receiving his second yellow card just one minute in, leaving his club with just ten men. Any prospects of a Pachuca comeback were virtually dashed at that crucial moment.

Conservative but in control second half

América changed tactics after gaining a numerical advantage and a two-goal lead. Instead of trying to score more goals, they concentrated more on controlling the game. Their eagerness waned, and they appeared satisfied to maintain their lead as long as they controlled territory and possession.

Now down one player, Pachuca seemed more concerned with containing the damage than making a resurgence. They strengthened their defense and made an effort to seal off any openings that would cause them to become even more embarrassed.

There were still opportunities for América, including a late penalty kick that Igor Lichnovsky won, but Julián Quinone’s missed it. But since the outcome was already decided, the miss didn’t matter.

A Victory in Statement

Club América has formally secured their spot in the 2025 Clausura semifinals with this 2-0 victory. Why shouldn’t the fans be dreaming again? The group appears focused, sharp, and resolute.

“There are five matches left until the fourth championship… and now we’ve cleared one more hurdle,” Henry Martín said after the game, summarizing it best. There are four left.

It served as a reminder of the team’s objective: to win everything and take home another championship. And they’re on track with performances like this.

What Comes Next?

For Pachuca, their Clausura 2025 campaign comes to a painful conclusion. They were unable to match América’s enthusiasm and execution in this series, despite occasional moments of excellence. They will now devote all of their attention to getting ready for the FIFA Club World Cup, a major competition that will pit them against some of the top teams in the world.

América, however, continues to advance with increasing speed. They appear to be serious title contenders with their offensive trio playing well and the defense remaining strong.

Concluding remarks

This match was a statement rather than merely a quarterfinal. Club América dominated, not simply won. Every pass, tackle, and celebration demonstrates their will to win another championship.

And there’s a genuine potential that Henry Martín’s goal of winning a fourth championship could come true if they continue in this manner.