San Luis Seeks to Dethrone Champion Cruz Azul

Reigning champions Cruz Azul are set to kick off their title defense in the Mexican league against Atlético de San Luis. Fresh off their tenth championship win, known as the "Guardianes 2021" title, La Máquina faces the challenge of maintaining their performance level throughout the new season. The club is particularly focused on avoiding a repeat of their 2021 performance, where they experienced a significant drop in form after securing the championship, and is aiming for a consecutive title, or "bi-championship."

The core of the Cruz Azul squad remains largely intact, with Juan José Calero and Alan Montes joining the team as reinforcements. However, the contract renewal for Gabriel Toro Fernández is still pending. The team's recent history serves as a stark warning, emphasizing the need for sustained effort and focus to retain their championship status.

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There is no better rival to know where we stand. Cruz Azul is a good team and has good players, I liked the last preseason match we played.

On the other side, Atlético de San Luis is looking to turn over a new leaf after three consecutive seasons without reaching the Liguilla, the league's postseason tournament. Head coach Diego Mejía sees the match against the reigning champions as the ultimate benchmark for his team's current capabilities. "There is no better rival to know where we stand," Mejía stated, acknowledging Cruz Azul's quality while expressing confidence in his team's preseason performance.

Mejía believes the game will be an excellent indicator of the work done during the preseason, even with the absence of key player Joao Pedro due to injury. Atlético's captain, Sebastien Salles-Lamonge, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team's focus and determination. "We are very committed and focused. This match will be the best test for us, after this month and a half of work, to see how we handle these games," he said, underscoring the high stakes and the team's readiness to face the champions.

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We are very committed and focused. This match will be the best test for us, after this month and a half of work, to see how we handle these games.