Historic blow for América: goalless in a final for the first time | OneFootball

Club América’s defeat to Toluca in the Clausura 2025 final brought more than just the end of their ambitious run for a fourth consecutive league title. It also marked the first time in their 22 Liga MX finals played over two legs that América failed to score a single goal across the tie—a surprising setback for a side that had ranked as the third most prolific attack in the regular season.

Previously, América had only flirted with this unwanted record. Back in the 1971–72 final against Cruz Azul and the 2013 Apertura final versus León, the club managed just a single goal across two legs in heavy aggregate defeats. Yet, on both those occasions, they avoided the ignominy of a goalless showing. Against Toluca, however, their attack was shut out completely, breaking a decades-long pattern and adding an unwelcome footnote to their storied record in finals.

Despite this latest loss, América remain one of the league’s most successful sides in finals contested over two matches—they have now appeared in 22 such finals, lifting the trophy 15 times and falling short on seven occasions. Their highest-scoring final occurred in the Clausura 2005, a 7-4 aggregate victory over Tecos, while their 5-3 triumph against Chivas in 1984 also remains a standout performance.

The defeat to Toluca further complicates an off-season full of uncertainty. Captain Henry Martín was forced off early in the second half with a muscular injury and his availability for the looming Club World Cup qualifier against LAFC is in doubt, with medical staff assessing his status. Transfer rumours continue to swirl around several squad members, with decisions on their future likely influenced by outcomes in the next key fixtures.

Manager André Jardine has responded to the disappointment by urging reflection but also rapid recovery, shifting immediate focus to the crucial play-off against LAFC with FIFA Club World Cup qualification at stake. “Perder una final es muy doloroso, pero es importante saber superar estas experiencias y salir más fortalecidos de ellas,” Jardine stated, acknowledging both the agony of defeat and the need to move forward.

Supporters, accustomed to success, have responded with mixed emotions. One widely shared video captured a fan’s anguish, saying, “I can’t go to work with this result. I bet my entire salary. We’re not going to eat this week.” Players including Álvaro Fidalgo and Martín expressed apology and solidarity with fans, promising quick response and renewed focus.

América’s next opportunity for redemption arrives swiftly, and with their attacking reputation on the line after the unprecedented goalless final, the pressure to deliver in the decisive LAFC clash is significant. For a club whose identity is so closely linked to finals success, breaking a negative record adds a new layer of resolve as they seek to recover momentum on both domestic and international stages.

Source: TUDN