As the Concacaf Champions Cup approaches, most of the region’s eyes will be on Club America. A team with a rich history and a burning desire to reclaim continental supremacy. It’s been years since America last held the prestigious trophy. Their last victory dates back to 2016 when they beat Tigres in a thrilling final. This year they aim to end the drought in this competition. Especially seeing as how this tournament holds even more significance with this year’s winner getting a direct path to the newly formatted FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. Making the stakes higher than ever.
Club America’s Quest for Concacaf Glory
History in Concacaf
Club America can be considered the Real Madrid of Concacaf. They lead the record books with seven titles in this competition. This year’s participation will be the teams 15th appearance in this competition. Their last participation in the tournament came in 2021 managed by ex-manager Santiago Solari. Where it ended in heartbreak, losing by a narrow margin the final to Monterrey. America also holds the crown jewel of being the most recent club to of won the cup back to back, achieving that feat in the 2014-15 and 2015-16 editions.
The Quest for the 8th
Their quest for an eighth title is more than just about adding another trophy to their cabinet. It’s about asserting dominance in the region and making a statement on the international stage. The importance of lifting the trophy again, after years of near misses, cannot be overstated for the club. Club America come into this tournament as joint favorites alongside Inter Miami CF to win the whole competition. Despite the media buzz surrounding Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, labeling them as favorites due to the Argentine superstar’s presence, Club America enters the tournament with credentials that are equally, if not more, impressive. Current Liga MX champions and the most valuable squad in the Concacaf region, Club America’s claim to be the number one contender is well-founded. With experienced stalwarts and their ability to perform under the weight of expectation will be key to their success.
🚨 ROSTER UPDATE 🚨
Here is the squad @ClubAmerica has submitted for the upcoming @TheChampions tournament 🏆 With the exception of Leo Suarez who will be departing the club 🔜 #AguilasEng 🦅 #ConcaChampions pic.twitter.com/sgTtHatW6X
— The Eagle Eye Podcast (@EagleEyePodcast) January 31, 2024
Preview vs Real Esteli FC
The path to glory will not be easy, with strong contenders standing between them and the trophy. Club America’s Concacaf journey begins against Nicaragua’s Real Esteli FC on Tuesday. February 6th. A match that, on paper, should see America start their campaign with a win. Even though the gap between both clubs is evident, Club America will still need to be at their best. Respecting their opponents while showcasing their superior quality and depth. The team’s depth allows them to adapt to different styles of play, a crucial factor in navigating the varied challenges they will face throughout the tournament.
¡El Ame llegó!
Estelí, Nicaragua 📍#SOMOSAMÉRICA 🦅 pic.twitter.com/0aQoqG3Y49
— Club América (@ClubAmerica) February 4, 2024
America comes into this game after a draw at home against Monterrey in Liga MX, and will be looking to return to winning ways. While Real Esteli come into the game after a 3-0 victory in their latest match against Deportivo Ocotal. Which means America will be going up against a team that will have confidence, especially playing at home. It will be important that America puts together a strong starting eleven to dictate the run of play and impose themselves over their opponent. With this being a two leg series it will be important America gets a favorable result to take back to Mexico for their second leg.
Read More: Club America: Looking To Soar Higher in 2024
Last Word
In conclusion, Club America’s blend of history, talent, and ambition makes them the team to watch in this year’s Concacaf Champions Cup. Their journey towards an eighth title promises to be a compelling tale of redemption, ambition, and footballing excellence. The team will have to rely on their squad depth and experienced players to help carry the team forward. Even though their first opponent on paper doesn’t seem as strong, they cannot let up. It is imperative that they start off on the right track by winning from the beginning.
Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports, of an Estadio Azteca Headshot, on April 29, 2023.
