Joel Huiqui warns Cruz Azul will show a new face against América after beating Santos

Joel Huiqui left Cruz Azul’s victory over Santos satisfied, especially with the way his team responded. The coach said the match had not been easy, but praised the work in both penalty areas and the team’s ability to break through a difficult defensive block.

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Very good. I saw a different match; defeat makes you feel sad. Today the team looked good, in defense and attack.

“Very good. I saw a different match; defeat makes you feel sad. Today the team looked good, in defense and attack,” Huiqui said after Cruz Azul secured three important home points with support from its fans. He also acknowledged that the team still has details to correct, particularly in front of the opposing goal.

With most of the squad available, Huiqui expects Cruz Azul to take another step forward in its coming matches against América in the league and Inter Miami. Gonzalo Piovi returned to the squad but did not enter because the coach said it was unnecessary. Amaury García is also recovering, while Rodo is getting closer to a return.

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Once the transfer was not completed, we decided to give him a little rest.

The coach also addressed Érik Lira, whose transfer to Monaco did not materialize. Huiqui said the midfielder took a few days off after the move fell through and is now committed to Cruz Azul’s project. “Once the transfer was not completed, we decided to give him a little rest,” he said. After speaking with Lira, Huiqui added that the player “says he is committed to the project, is willing, and has commitment.”

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Says he is committed to the project, is willing, and has commitment.

Huiqui said José Paradela had suffered a burn at home but recovered in time to face Santos and score. “It was not serious,” the coach said. Cruz Azul now turns toward the Clásico Joven, with the returning players expected to give the team more choices as it seeks to show a new face against América.

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It was not serious.