Patricio Salas’ Powerful Header Advances América Past Cruz Azul at Estadio Azteca
The two-year wait ended as Club América returned to the Estadio Azteca for the Clásico Joven against Cruz Azul. The match arrived amid a poor run that threatened the team’s place in the Liguilla.
Managerial change and selection
André Jardine shook up his lineup to spark the attack. He moved away from the experiment using “Pantera” Zúñiga as the central striker.
Jardine gave a homegrown option the nod. Patricio Salas started and showed his readiness early.
Seventeen-minute breakthrough
The opening goal came in the 17th minute. Alejandro Zendejas charged down the right and cut inside before delivering a precise left-foot cross.
Patricio Salas read the flight of the ball perfectly. His powerful header beat goalkeeper Andrés Gudiño and put América ahead.
- Minute: 17
- Scorer: Patricio Salas
- Assist: Alejandro Zendejas
- Goalkeeper beaten: Andrés Gudiño
- Competition: Clausura 2026
- Venue: Estadio Azteca (Coloso de Santa Úrsula)
Impact and context
The goal was Salas’s first of the Clausura 2026. It provided immediate relief for a squad under heavy criticism.
His contribution advanced América past Cruz Azul and energized the home crowd. The result also highlighted the club’s youth development.
Outlook
Salas’s display gives Jardine a clear offensive option. The performance reinforced the club’s mística and renewed fan belief.
Report for Filmogaz.com.
