'We respect everyone, but we fear no one' - André Jardine's América could face high-stakes semifinal rematch with Cruz Azul after eliminating Pachuca

Club América continued its charge toward a historic fourth consecutive Liga MX title after securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Pachuca in the second leg of their Clausura 2025 quarterfinal.

A brace from Alejandro Zendejas propelled the defending champions into their sixth straight semifinal appearance, further cementing their dominance in recent tournaments.

Head coach André Jardine, who once again outmaneuvered Guillermo Almada tactically, praised his team’s intensity and execution.

“We were consistent and clinical, just as we aim to be. This was the kind of solid performance I expect from our squad,” said the Brazilian tactician following the win at Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes.

Jardine also highlighted the significance of eliminating Pachuca, a team that has proven troublesome for América in recent years.

“This is the second time we’ve knocked them out in the playoffs since I arrived, and that’s important because they’ve always been a tough opponent,” he noted.

Looking ahead, América could be set for a high-stakes semifinal duel with rivals Cruz Azul, who currently lead their quarterfinal tie against León. That matchup would rekindle tensions following América’s recent elimination at the hands of Cruz Azul in the CONCACAF Champions Cup - an outcome that still lingers among the fans and players.

However, Jardine opted to remain grounded.

“No matchup is decided yet. Whoever we face, we’ll be ready,” he said. “Cruz Azul would be special - it’s a strong team, and we know their style. But teams that aim to win championships don’t pick opponents. We respect everyone, but we fear no one.”

In terms of squad updates, midfielder Jonathan Dos Santos is making strides in his recovery and is expected to be available off the bench for the semifinal clash. Brian Rodríguez, however, remains sidelined and will require at least another week before returning to full training.

“Keeping a clean sheet is a team effort, not just about the defenders and the goalkeeper,” said América’s defender. “Everyone runs and defends together. We’re four games away from our dream - it’s in our minds, but we’re taking it one match at a time, waiting to see who our next opponent will be.”

Juárez also emphasized that América does not see itself as the favorite despite its dominant run, saying, “We don’t feel like favorites The reality is that there are great teams left, and we have to work with a lot of humility.”

Regarding the possibility of facing Cruz Azul in the semifinals - a rematch of their Champions Cup clash - the Mexican player downplayed any sense of revenge.

“More than revenge, it would be a beautiful match to play against Cruz Azul," he said. "But whoever we face, we have to be ready to beat them."

Should Cruz Azul fail to close out their series against León, América will instead meet the winner of the Tigres vs. Necaxa matchup in the next round.