América Edge Querétaro in Nail‑Biter Season Opener

Pre‑Season Turmoil and Missing Stars

Club América entered the campaign after a turbulent offseason that stripped the squad of key talent. The front office let several vital players depart, and even long‑time manager André Jardine was not retained. Injuries further weakened the ranks: Alejandro Zendejas and Luis Ángel Malagón will be sidelined for weeks, while Sebastián Cáceres and Brian Rodríguez are still away on World Cup duty. The loss of firepower has left the Aguilas looking like a shadow of the feared side they once were.

The opening XIII failed to reflect the firepower that once defined América’s attack. With the forwards compromised, the team looked out of rhythm from the start. This lack of offensive punch set the tone for a match that would test the squad’s resilience.

Hard‑Fought First Half with Missed Chances

In the tenth minute América’s set‑piece threat was evident when Ramón Juárez rose at the edge of the box. He timed his run well but could not direct his header toward goal. Shortly after, Cristian Borja surged down the left flank and delivered a cross that Raphael Veiga met with a header, yet his attempt drifted over the bar.

Henry Martín had a prime opportunity in the 22nd minute, finding space inside the box with only one defender closing. Despite the clear view, his finish curled wide, a stark contrast to his decisive strike from last season. Querétaro pressed for an equalizer, with Rodolfo Cota pulling off several saves as the Gallos failed to convert their chances. The goalkeeper’s frustration was visible as his backline conceded stretches of pressure.

Second Half Drama and Penalty Controversy

The second period saw Querétaro dominate possession, pinning América deep in their own half. Avi Ávila found himself one‑on‑one in the 49th minute but lifted his flicked effort over the crossbar. The tension mounted when a free‑kick awarded to América sparked a handball debate.

Raphael Veiga’s attempt struck the wall, and play was halted for a handball call. Diego Reyes protested, claiming his arm was close to his body, yet VAR intervened. After reviewing the replay, the referee reversed his decision, awarding a penalty to the Aguilas. Henry Martín stepped up, but his strike was saved by the Querétaro keeper.

With the match deadlocked, Isaias Violante entered the contest in the 83rd minute. Martín threaded a pass to the midfielder, who struck from the edge of the box, sending the ball past the keeper for the season’s opening goal. The breakthrough sparked a final surge, but Querétaro’s attempts fell short.

América’s celebration was marred by a late ejection. Alan Cervantes collected a second yellow for a reckless challenge, forcing him to miss the next fixture against Atlante. Despite the setback, the team held on to secure a hard‑fought victory.