'Hopefully we see solid refereeing' - América's Ramón Juárez references first-leg officiating controversy ahead of final against Toluca

Ahead of the decisive second leg of the Clausura 2025 Final between Club América and Toluca, defender Ramón Juárez expressed hope for better officiating after a controversial first match.

Speaking after the goalless draw at Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, Juárez noted that América left the pitch with a sense of frustration, pointing to several moments that could have warranted penalties - or even a red card - particularly a dangerous foul by Alexis Vega on Kevin Álvarez.

"There were a couple of incidents that, beyond complaints, really put a player’s safety at risk - like the kick on Kevin," Juárez told reporters. "It’s already done and noted, but hopefully we see solid refereeing in the return leg."

César Arturo Ramos, a referee often at the center of debate, is set to officiate Sunday’s clash at the Estadio Nemesio Diez, where the 2025 Clausura champion will be crowned.

Despite his remarks, Juárez refrained from directly criticizing the referees, instead choosing to focus on what lies ahead.

“You always feel a bit of frustration when clear plays go unnoticed, but in the end, it's in God's hands, and we trust things will be fair,” he added.

On the field, América found it difficult to break down Toluca’s defensive setup in the first leg, managing just one shot on target. Juárez acknowledged the Red Devils’ strategy and credited them for their discipline.

“It was a tight, physical match. They came in with the goal of keeping a clean sheet and didn’t give us many openings,” he said. “We played a decent game, and now we’ll analyze what needs improvement for the return leg. It’s all or nothing now.”

While recognizing the tactical approach of Antonio Mohamed’s side, Juárez hinted that the narrative of the final will be written in the second leg.

“Their strategy is valid - maybe it was to sit back and avoid conceding," he said. "That’s football. But we’ll see who really dictates terms when it’s all settled in the second leg.”

América's André Jardine and Toluca's Antonio Mohamed are both aiming to further cement their legacies in Mexican football, each seeking a fourth Liga MX title. For Jardine, a win would mark his fourth consecutive championship, while Mohamed is looking to claim his fourth title with a different club - having previously won with Xolos, América, and Monterrey.

The Clausura 2025 champion will be decided Sunday at Estadio Nemesio Diez in Toluca. América is chasing a historic third straight title, while Toluca looks to end a 15-year championship drought and claim their 11th league crown.