Match Overview
Mazatlán and Cruz Azul face off in a crucial Liga MX match that could significantly impact their standings this season. With Cruz Azul currently favored to win, Mazatlán will need to leverage their home advantage to secure a positive result.
Odds Analysis
The average odds for this match are heavily in favor of Cruz Azul, with a 1.73 probability for an away win, translating to a 57.8% chance. Mazatlán, with odds of 4.56, has a 21.9% probability of winning, while a draw stands at 3.68, or 27.2% probability. Given these odds, Cruz Azul is expected to dominate, but Mazatlán's home advantage could play a crucial role.
Team Analysis
Mazatlán
- Current Form: Mazatlán has struggled this season, averaging only 0.73 goals per match and conceding 1.15.
- Strengths: Strong in dribbles with 21.54 per match and a decent interception rate of 35.73.
- Weaknesses: Low goal-scoring rate and possession at 47%.
- Head-to-Head: Historically, Cruz Azul has had the upper hand in this fixture.
Cruz Azul
- Current Form: Cruz Azul is in excellent form, scoring 1.93 goals per match and conceding just 0.93.
- Strengths: High possession (58.87%) and strong offensive metrics with 14.53 shots per match.
- Weaknesses: Slightly vulnerable in duels with a lower success rate compared to Mazatlán.
Key Players Spotlight
- Mazatlán: Hugo González and Lucas Merolla are key defensive figures, while Brian Rubio and Josué Colmán are crucial in attack.
- Cruz Azul: Ángel Sepúlveda, with 12 goals, and Ignacio Rivero, with 10 goals, are the main threats.
- Matchup: The battle between Mazatlán's defense and Cruz Azul's attack will be pivotal.
Statistical Deep Dive
- Offensive Metrics: Cruz Azul leads with 1.76 expected goals per match compared to Mazatlán's 1.18.
- Defensive Metrics: Cruz Azul's expected goals against is 0.83, showcasing their defensive solidity.
- Possession and Passing: Cruz Azul's superior passing accuracy and possession could dictate the match's tempo.
Prediction and Conclusion
Cruz Azul is the clear favorite, with their offensive prowess and defensive stability likely to secure them a win. Mazatlán's best chance lies in exploiting set-pieces and counter-attacks. Expect a competitive match, but Cruz Azul should edge it with a 2-1 victory.