Cruz Azul vs. Chivas Preview and Free Pick

The Liga MX offers us a great banquet, with a classic between two great teams: Cruz Azul will host Chivas on the tenth Matchday of the Clausura 2024. 

La Maquina has just suffered its second defeat in the league and therefore the lead, losing 1-0 to América at the Azteca stadium. 

The Rebaño returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over Pumas, who had been on a winning streak going into the match. 

When and Where?

Saturday, March 2, 8:05 pm ET at the Estadio Azteca

Moneyline odds: 

Cruz Azul 1.86 

Chivas 3.955

Draw Offs: 

3.64 

Where Can I Watch? 

TUDN and Univisión 

Why Bet on Cruz Azul?

After a second half of 2023 to forget, Cruz Azul has risen from the ashes this semester and is fighting for the leadership of Mexican soccer, something that was unthinkable due to the beginning of a new era with coach Martín Anselmi. However, their positive streak was cut short on the last matchday, when they lost 1-0 to América, who scored the only goal through striker Julián Quiñones. 

Before that loss, the ‘Máquina Cementera’ had beaten Mazatlán, Tijuana, Querétaro, Atlético San Luis, Tigres, and León, which allowed them to stay at the top of Mexican soccer. They have already shown that they can compete with the big favorites, but winning the derby against Chivas is also an ingredient that can improve the squad’s confidence. 

Cruz Azul has allowed only six goals in the competition, making it the third-best defense in the tournament. On the other hand, they have only scored 13 goals, but Uriel Antuna is having a good year, with three and two assists. 

On the other hand, it should be noted that this team has become strong at home. Although they lost in their debut against Pachuca, they went on to win four straight games. They have only conceded two goals in that condition. 

Due to injury, Gabriel ‘Toro’ Fernández is out for the whole Clausura, while defender Willer Ditta must serve his last suspension. 

Why Bet on Chivas?

Chivas have not yet found the form that coach Fernando Gago had planned. Just when they seem to have found their rhythm, draws and defeats follow. Their last match ended in a 3-1 victory over Pumas, thanks to goals from Cade Cowell, Antonio Briseño, and Víctor Guzmán. 

However, this match was news for the Rebaño due to the debut of an idol of the institution, Javier “El Chicharito” Hernández, who is already available to contribute while on loan from the LA Galaxy. Chicharito, who came on after 80 minutes, played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, Sevilla, and Bayer Leverkusen, among other teams, so he could be the key player that the team needs to shine this semester. 

In Gago’s team, Guzmán is also on fire, as he has scored six goals so far. 

Chivas have won only one game out of five on the road, drawing two and losing two. 

José Juan Macías could be available for this match, while Gago is waiting for Gilberto Sepúlveda and Carlos Cisneros. 

Final Betting Analysis: Cruz Azul vs. Chivas

The last time they played for the Liga MX with Cruz Azul at home was in 2022 and the victory was 2-1 for the Máquina Cementera. Last year they played twice, both times in Guadalajara, and Chivas won both. 

The numbers at Gambyl Exchange have Cruz Azul as the favorite. The Moneyline for them shows 1.86, while Chivas has 3.955, and the draw is at 3.64. 

This is expected to be a great match, due to the quality of both teams. Although Chivas will be counting on their great reinforcement, the victory will end up going to the local team, which will resume its winning ways. We’ll go for a 1-0.

Go for a win for Cruz Azul. If you bet $100 at 1.86, you will gain $86 for a total payout of $186. 

Cruz Azul vs. Chivas Betting Pick: Cruz Azul