'No team can win all the time' - André Jardine's Club América face must-win match vs Portland Timbers, with their Leagues Cup future hanging in the balance

Just months ago, América looked untouchable in Mexican football, coming off a run as three-time Liga MX champions. But since then, the team has stumbled out of the Liga MX final, failed to win the Champions Cup, missed out on the Club World Cup, and lost the Campeón de Campeones title.

A group-stage elimination in the Leagues Cup would only add to the sting.

The memory of last year’s early exit still lingers - América, then reigning back-to-back Liga MX champions, were knocked out on penalties by Colorado. This time, a win over Portland is their only guarantee to advance.

Still, André Jardine remained calm.

“Right now, I don’t think it’s about patience, but understanding,” he said. “We’ve made changes, some players are just getting back to form, others finishing preseason. Football isn’t a straight line. No team can win all the time, and this moment will pass, just like others before.”

The Brazilian coach insisted that the internal structure at the club is strong and focused on getting back on track.

“América is doing things the right way to return to its best. From the front office to the coaching staff and players - everyone knows what they need to do," he said. "The players are training hard, with intensity, and that’ll eventually show on the field. I know from experience that things will click again soon.”

América face a must-win match on Wednesday against the Portland Timbers, with their Leagues Cup future hanging in the balance. The pressure is mounting on Jardine’s team to avoid yet another disappointment in a year that’s been full of missed opportunities.

Jardine was asked about the future of winger Brian Rodríguez. The Uruguayan - previously linked with Inter Miami - is now being pursued by clubs in Qatar. Despite the speculation, Jardine confirmed Rodríguez is still in his plans.

“We’re aware of the interest," he said. "There are offers, and Brian is a player we value a lot. He’s happy at América. If an offer comes in that makes sense for everyone, we’ll have to be ready - not only to let him go, but to bring in someone of the same level. As far as I know, he’s still with us and he’s available.”

Regardless of what happens in Wednesday’s match against the Timbers, the team will return to Liga MX action this weekend, hosting Querétaro at home in Matchday 4 of the Apertura 2025.