3 keys to success for Forge FC in Estadio Azteca clash vs. Cruz Azul (8:30PM ET, OneSoccer)
Here are three things to consider before taking in tonight's match (8:30 p.m. ET, OneSoccer).
Forge playing with nothing to lose
Bobby Smyrniotis’ side have already done themselves proud, not just by getting to this tournament but by putting up a very good fight in Leg 1. Now, as they enter the away leg, the pressure is truly off and Forge are playing with house money. It would not be surprising for the visitors to be overwhelmed in this game by a stronger team — although Smyrniotis and co. would not be content to roll over. They will, most likely, play with a greater degree of freedom than their opponents, knowing they have nothing to lose, and therefore no real reason not to come out and press, trying to stun Cruz Azul with a quick strike or two. Forge know that any damage they do to their foes in this game will be a remarkable achievement, and they’re eager to do quite a great deal.
Expect stronger Cruz Azul lineup
Though Forge deserve every ounce of credit for the way they played at home in Leg 1, they did not see most of Cruz Azul’s best players until midway through the second half — and they didn’t see Carlos Rodríguez at all. In their match on Sunday, Reynoso went back to a first-choice lineup, with Bryan Angulo up top and Rodríguez and Uriel Antuna alongside. Cruz Azul probably can’t afford to gamble with a B team in this home fixture, because even an unconvincing victory might put more pressure on them. Forge defended quite well after Angulo and Antuna entered the game in Hamilton, but whether they can hold them off for 90 minutes is a different question entirely. Though Cruz Azul are rarely an aggressive side in Liga MX, they offer devastating quality in transition, so it’ll be up to Forge’s midfield to slow them down and prevent those opportunities.
Enjoy the moment
Part of the message from Forge’s coaching staff heading into this game will be imploring the players not to get caught up in the occasion or overwhelmed by the prospect of playing Cruz Azul at the Azteca. Still, these aren’t games that come along often — and there will never again be a first visit to the venue for these players. Forge definitely understand the gravity of the stage they’re on, and their younger players have the benefit of new teammate Ashtone Morgan and assistant coach David Edgar, both of whom have played at the Azteca a handful of times before. The team will have one training session on the pitch on Wednesday night to get accustomed to the well-kept grass field, and after that it’ll be down to the players to make this moment even more special.
