Cruz Azul is one of Mexico’s most historic and passionate football clubs. Based in Mexico City, the team has a rich history, loyal fans, and an intense rivalry with Club América. Over the years, they have won multiple league titles and international trophies.
Despite their success, Cruz Azul has also faced heartbreaks, earning a reputation for dramatic losses. However, their resilience and commitment to excellence make them one of the most respected clubs in Liga MX.
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The Origins of Cruz Azul
Cruz Azul was founded in 1927 in Hidalgo, Mexico. It started as a football team for workers at the Cementos Cruz Azul company. The team quickly grew in popularity and talent, leading to its professionalization. By 1964, Cruz Azul earned promotion to Mexico’s top division. From there, they became a powerhouse in Liga MX. Their hardworking mentality and team spirit reflected their industrial roots.The Golden Era (1970s-1980s)
The 1970s were Cruz Azul’s greatest years. The team won six league titles in just nine seasons. Their dominance earned them the nickname “La Máquina” (The Machine) because of their efficient and unstoppable play. Cruz Azul’s golden generation included legendary players like Miguel Marín, Ignacio Flores, and Carlos Jara Saguier. They played an attacking style, winning fans across Mexico. By the 1980s, the team remained competitive but faced tougher challenges. They continued to be one of the top clubs in Liga MX, but their dominance slowed.The 1997 League Title
After years of strong performances but no titles, Cruz Azul finally won the 1997 Liga MX championship. It was their first league trophy since 1980. The victory, led by coach Luis Fernando Tena, ended a 17-year drought. Carlos Hermosillo, one of the club’s greatest strikers, scored the winning goal in the final against León. His decisive penalty kick remains one of the most iconic moments in Cruz Azul’s history.International Success: CONCACAF Champions League
Cruz Azul has been one of Mexico’s most successful teams in international tournaments. They have won the CONCACAF Champions League a record six times. Their victories came in 1969, 1970, 1971, 1996, 1997, and 2014. These triumphs cemented Cruz Azul’s reputation as one of the best teams in North and Central America. In 2014, Cruz Azul defeated Toluca in the final. This win earned them a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup, where they finished fourth.The Heartbreaks and the Curse
Despite their success, Cruz Azul became famous for heartbreaking losses. Between 1999 and 2021, they lost six Liga MX finals. This long period without a league title led to the term “Cruzazulear”, which means failing in crucial moments.Notable Final Losses
- 1999 – Lost to Pachuca in extra time.
- 2008 – Lost to Toluca on penalties.
- 2009 – Lost to Monterrey.
- 2013 – Lost to América after conceding a late equalizer.
- 2018 – Lost again to América in a disappointing performance.
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Breaking the Curse: The 2021 Liga MX Title
After 23 years, Cruz Azul finally won the Liga MX title in 2021. The team, led by coach Juan Reynoso, had an incredible season. They finished first in the regular season and dominated the playoffs. In the final against Santos Laguna, Jonathan Rodríguez scored the decisive goal. The victory ended decades of frustration and restored the club’s pride. Fans celebrated across Mexico, making it one of the most emotional moments in Liga MX history.Cruz Azul’s Biggest Rivalries
The club has intense rivalries with several teams, but none compare to their battles with Club América and Pumas UNAM.Cruz Azul vs. Club América (El Clásico Joven)
This is one of the biggest rivalries in Mexican football. Club América and Cruz Azul have faced each other in multiple finals, with América often coming out on top. The 2013 and 2018 Liga MX finals added fuel to this rivalry. América’s comebacks in those games were devastating for Cruz Azul fans. However, Cruz Azul’s 2021 championship helped balance the rivalry.Cruz Azul vs. Pumas UNAM
This rivalry is based on regional pride. Pumas UNAM, representing Mexico’s national university, often plays with young, homegrown players. Cruz Azul, on the other hand, has a mix of experienced professionals and foreign stars. Matches between these two teams are always intense. Their 2020 playoff semifinal was one of the most shocking games in recent history. Cruz Azul won 4-0 in the first leg but lost 4-0 in the second, getting eliminated on away goals.Iconic Players
Cruz Azul has produced and signed many legends over the years. Here are some of the greatest players to wear the blue jersey.Carlos Hermosillo
Hermosillo is one of Cruz Azul’s all-time top scorers. His leadership and goal-scoring ability helped the club win the 1997 Liga MX title. His penalty in the final against León remains legendary.Miguel Marín
The Argentine goalkeeper is considered one of the best in Liga MX history. He played for Cruz Azul in the 1970s, helping them win multiple titles. His reflexes and leadership made him a fan favorite.César Delgado
Delgado was a creative and skillful winger. He played a crucial role for Cruz Azul in the early 2000s before moving to Europe.Christian Giménez
The Argentine midfielder played for Cruz Azul for nearly a decade. His vision, passing, and leadership made him one of the club’s best modern players.Jonathan Rodríguez
Rodríguez was the hero of Cruz Azul’s 2021 championship. His goals helped break the 23-year title drought, making him a club legend.Cruz Azul’s Future
Cruz Azul remains one of Mexico’s biggest clubs. With a loyal fanbase and strong financial backing, they continue to compete for titles.Recent Developments
- The team has invested in new players to stay competitive.
- The Liga MX format changes give them more chances to win.
- They are focusing on developing young Mexican talent.
Conclusion
Cruz Azul’s journey has been filled with triumphs, heartbreaks, and unforgettable moments. They are a club with deep history, passionate fans, and a determination to win. From their golden era in the 1970s to their emotional 2021 championship, Cruz Azul has remained a symbol of resilience in Mexican football. As they continue to grow, one thing is certain: La Máquina never stops running.MLS Draft: A Gateway to Professional Soccer
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