America wins Leagues Cup, Almada wants less 'suffering' in future matches

Club América secured a 2-0 victory over Columbus Crew in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, advancing to the semifinals. However, the win was not without its challenges, as the Mexican club faced significant pressure from the MLS opponent throughout the match.

Goalkeeper Rodolfo Cota was a standout performer for América, delivering a superb display with crucial saves and stopping a penalty kick. His performance was vital in keeping the Crew off the scoreboard and preserving América's lead.

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I would like to suffer less, undoubtedly. I insist again: we are concerned with trying to improve these distractions. The penalty that bounces off his hand when we had a good number of players in the area... I insist, these are things we must improve. I am happy with the volume of play and the opportunities that came little.

Despite the win, head coach Guillermo Almada admitted he would prefer his team to experience less adversity. "I would like to suffer less, undoubtedly. I insist again: we are concerned with trying to improve these distractions," Almada stated, referencing specific moments like the penalty incident. He acknowledged that while pleased with the team's overall play and opportunities created, such lapses need improvement.

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Monterrey has one of the richest squads in Mexican football, with hierarchy, it will be a very tough opponent, but we have our weapons. It will be a great match for those who can watch it.

Looking ahead, América is set to face Rayados de Monterrey in the semifinals. Almada anticipates a difficult match against a team he described as having "one of the richest squads in Mexican football, with hierarchy." He remains confident in his team's ability to compete, stating, "We have our weapons. It will be a great match for those who can watch it."

Almada also addressed the impending return of goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón, noting that having three strong goalkeeping options, Cota, Tapia, and Malagón, provides a sense of security and depth for the team.

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Well, when we have him, I will resolve it, Cota has had an excellent tournament, (Fernando) Tapia too, definitely, they are there for that and it is something that pleases us greatly; they have dedication, they train well, when (Luis Ángel) Malagón is available, we will have three great goalkeepers who can play and have the goal very well covered.