Two of the most promising teams before the Apertura 2014 started were Cruz Azul and back-to-back champions León. Their performances so far have been rather disappointing, but on this Saturday's match between them, both historic clubs will try to start turning things around for them.
Cruz Azul has been harshly criticized for performing below average when under pressure. The team's current situation accurately fits that description, which will test what their players are made of. On the Clausura 2014 tournament, just five months ago, "La Maquina" held the first place for almost the entire regular season, but now they are struggling to make the playoffs, holding the 13th position out of 18 teams.
On the other hand, León seems to have lost the game that made them back-to-back champions. With the departure of Mexican legend Rafa Marquez to Hellas Verona, the below average performance by Carlos Peña and the injury suffered by Luis Montes prior to this summer's World Cup, Gustavo Matosas' crew have disappointed their fans, being able to win just three matches this semester. A few weeks ago, Matosas resigned as head coach, but the team's president still believes the Uruguayan coach is the one that can lead León back to their previous form.
This teams met in the Clausura 2014 playoffs. Leon were considered the underdog, earning their playoff spot in the final round of the regular season. Cruz Azul failed to honor the odds, and even though the aggregate score was 3-3, León advanced to the semifinals on away goals. La Fiera would eventually earn their second straight championship.
Fans should keep an eye on Christian "Chaco" Gimenez, who holds the key to a good performance in Cruz Azul's midfield. On the other side, Mauro Boselli's scoring ability will test the limits of defenders such as "Maza" Rodriguez and Rogelio Chavez.
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