Guests of the playoff: Cruz Azul, doubt and hope

Nobody knows what to expect from Blue Cross. The machine raises doubts and illusions Celeste alike in a championship-hungry fans. And that drought is a big threat to Mexican soccer extended, as if some strange curse weighs on La Noria. It has not been attempted. The cement has reached two finals in recent seasons, but still unable to lift the trophy. This time, they have a wise strategist, a reliable goalkeeper, a balanced midfield and a devastating striker. What do they lack? Nobody can say for sure what will break the curse blue.

This season came Jesus Corona to defend under the Blue Cross. After the irregular actions of Yosgart Gutierrez, the manager decided to strengthen over the choice goalkeeper. So far it has complied with solvency, but not spectacular. He has allowed 17 goals in 13 games, and more is expected of him. We will see in the league if he has the personality hierarchy and lead a large team from behind. Eye, which is not the same be the bulwark of the UAG that a powerful club.

Defense is the weakest line of equipment. Julius Caesar is the central Cata Dominguez holder, and a hesitant alternating appearances and limited Horacio Cervantes Melvin Brown. Nor is there much of where lay hands on the bench, where the very best is Joel Huiqui. While the center of the rear makes a little water, the sides are very effective. On one end is Fausto Pinto, defense and good trade projection, while the other is Rogelio Chavez, discreet but compliant.

However, the blue midfield is another story. Enrique Meza has a wealth of parts that many other teams covet. In the containment, shield holder has the Mexican national team, the valiant Gerardo Torrado. Keeps him company, a little more advanced, Paraguayan Cristian Riveros, a more regular foreigners who have come to La Noria. As leaflets are Jaime Lozano, a former national team and educator exquisite touch and free throws, and Gerardo Lugo, quick, sharp and with overflow. There is much potential in the creative area with Cesar Villaluz and Ramon Nunez, with the disadvantage of this season have been found in the grass. Special mention Edgar Hernandez, a real Comodi at midcourt.

Forward, Cruz Azul is summarized in a name: Emanuel Villa. Repatriated to Mexico after his painful adventure in the English football striker Villa is the cash that every great team needs. It is the leading scorer of the tournament, and unless Mancilla has a dreamy afternoon in the final game, the Argentine striker expire competition. Another who has reached a certain regularity is Alejandro Vela. The brother of Arsenal striker is a good complement to the end. To close the roster, is intoaccount Pablo Zeballos, outsider who seems to have counted the minutes on the club to earn just one goal in the tournament.

Cruz Azul will be a semifinalist, but I dare not put it beyond. How far will depend on two: the boots and gloves Villa Corona. American-style in recent years (based on the tandem-Cottages Ochoa), Cruz Azul depends on the effectiveness of his men in both areas. I must confess that I was also excited about the act of the Machine, and the team gets oiled and fine towards the league. But something imperceptible, indescribable, unknown, that makes me balk about giving to your favorites. Will recent history, is its fickleness, but I see the blue champion. As we say in Mexico: if the mule was not shy, made it to hats.

Share this entry