Club América Survives Puebla Scare to Extend Unbeaten Streak

Club América continued its strong start to the 2025 Clausura with a 2-1 victory over Puebla on Matchday 6, extending its unbeaten run and temporarily claiming the top spot in the table. However, despite taking an early lead, América’s complacency nearly cost them against a ten-man Puebla side that refused to back down.

In the end, André Jardine’s squad showed resilience, weathering a second-half surge from the hosts to grind out three valuable points on the road. While the result keeps América on track for another dominant campaign, the performance exposed some areas that need improvement moving forward.

It was an interesting tactical shift that ultimately paid off, though Dávila struggled to make a significant impact compared to previous performances. The Chilean forward looked less effective in a wide role, a potential area for adjustment in future matches.

Second-Half Complacency Nearly Proves Costly

América started the match in dominant fashion, scoring twice within the opening 38 minutes and heading into halftime firmly in control. The second half began in similar fashion, but as time passed, the intensity dropped significantly.

With Puebla reduced to ten men in the first half, América appeared to ease off the gas, playing as if the match was already decided. The team failed to capitalize on several promising opportunities, and the substitutions failed to inject the necessary energy to close out the game comfortably.

The lack of urgency and sharpness allowed Puebla to grow into the match, putting América under unnecessary pressure in the final stages. While they ultimately secured the win, Jardine will need to address this dip in intensity, especially with crucial fixtures on the horizon.

Grinding Out a Crucial Win

While this match lacked the emphatic scorelines of América’s recent victories, it showcased the team’s ability to secure results even when not at its best. Critics have pointed to the tricampeones’ favorable schedule, but this match proved that even against lesser opposition, complacency can be costly.

With the Concacaf Champions Cup looming next month, it will be essential for América to maintain momentum and continue accumulating points in the domestic league. Tougher challenges lie ahead, and Jardine’s squad will need to be sharper and more ruthless in closing out games.

What’s Next for Club América?

Before returning to Liga MX action, América will play a midweek friendly against MLS side LAFC at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The match provides an opportunity for players like Diego Valdés and “Buffalo” Aguirre to gain valuable minutes and build match fitness.

Club América Survives Puebla Scare to Extend Unbeaten Streak

A Tactical Twist in the Starting XI

When the lineups were announced, it appeared Jardine was deploying a 4-4-2 formation, but once the match started, it became evident that América lined up in its usual 4-2-3-1. The most notable change saw Víctor Dávila positioned out wide on the right, while Alejandro Zendejas operated centrally alongside Erick Sánchez, who played as the attacking midfielder.

Following the friendly, América will host Necaxa on Valentine’s Day for Matchday 7 of the Clausura. With another three points at stake, Jardine will look for a more complete performance from his squad as they continue their pursuit of another league title.