El Clásico De México Preview Feat. El Soccer Guy
The Eagle Eye Podcast is back for the biggest week of the regular season: El Clásico de México. Ivan Pineda is joined by special guest El Soccer Guy (Leo Hernandez), a soccer content creator and proud Americanista, to dive deep into the rivalry. From América’s strong form heading into Saturday, to the tactical questions facing André Jardine, to memories of unforgettable Clásicos past, this episode is all about the Super Clásico against Chivas.
The Rivalry and Its Changing Feel
The Clásico Nacional is always circled on the calendar, but as El Soccer Guy admitted, the energy hasn’t always matched the hype in recent years. Chivas’ inconsistent form has dimmed the spectacle, though América fans still demand nothing less than victory. Ivan reminded listeners, though, that a clásico is a clásico, form doesn’t matter, and complacency can be punished.
“Never get cocky, never get too overly confident. Anything can happen in a clásico.” – El Soccer Guy
América’s Mindset Heading In
André Jardine’s task is to balance expectation with discipline. América enters the match in fine form after a strong August, but the pressure is unique in this rivalry. Players like Álvaro Fidalgo and new signing Allan Saint-Maximin have already embraced the Americanista culture, and leadership figures like Henry Martin carry an extra edge against Chivas.
Fidalgo, in particular, remains central to América’s hopes. El Soccer Guy pointed out how he always seems to rise to the occasion in this fixture, referencing his dazzling displays and his resilience since the infamous red card in the Clausura 2023 semifinal.
Tactical Questions: Back Three or Back Four?
Both Ivan and Leo confessed they prefer a traditional back four, but acknowledged Jardine has leaned on the back three in América’s biggest matches. Against Tigres, Atlas, and Pachuca, the system offered balance and protection. With Chivas looming, the expectation is that Jardine will once again opt for the back three, trusting his squad’s ability to adapt.
Still, as Ivan noted, América’s best football in recent seasons has often come in a back four — a tactical debate that will linger well past Saturday’s whistle.
Players to Watch
Álvaro Fidalgo: The Spanish midfielder understands the rivalry and carries a chip on his shoulder from past mistakes. When América plays Chivas, he looks like a “99-rated FIFA Fidalgo,” in El Soccer Guy’s words, commanding tempo and energy.
Allan Saint-Maximin: After goals in back-to-back appearances, the Frenchman is pushing for his first start. Both Ivan and Leo believe he has the dedication and flair to make an impact, whether from the opening whistle or off the bench. His speed, confidence, and fitness have already silenced early doubts.
“If América spent millions on him, the Clásico is where he proves it, this is his moment.” – El Soccer Guy
Scoreline Predictions
El Soccer Guy didn’t hold back: he sees América rolling to a 4–0 or 4–1 victory, calling it the perfect chance to humble Chivas before their season slips further away. Ivan offered a more measured take, predicting a 2–0 win — similar to the Pachuca result, while emphasizing América’s professionalism and clean-sheet potential.
Regardless of the scoreline, both agreed that momentum, discipline, and execution will be crucial. With América sitting near the top of the table, the Clásico represents not only bragging rights but also a chance to affirm championship credentials.
A Look Back: Favorite Clásico Memories
The conversation turned nostalgic as both Ivan and Leo shared their favorite Clásico memories. From Paul Aguilar’s thunderbolt at the Estadio Akron to Memo Ochoa’s miraculous 2007 semifinal save, the rivalry has provided countless moments etched into Americanista history. For El Soccer Guy, discovering América in 2005 was the spark that shaped his fandom and he’s been following the team across cities and finals ever since.
Conclusion
The Clásico Nacional may not carry the same fire it once did, but for América fans, it still represents the pinnacle of league rivalries. With Jardine’s squad in form, Fidalgo ready to lead, and Saint-Maximin poised for his biggest test yet, Saturday’s clash against Chivas could reignite the passion that defines this fixture.
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Special guest this episode: El Soccer Guy (Leo Hernández) — find him on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and more for top-tier fútbol content.