In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Montserrat Saldívar propelled América Femenil to a thrilling 4-3 victory over Chivas in a high-scoring friendly match held at the BMO Stadium in Los Ángeles. Saldívar’s late free-kick secured the win for América in a match that saw both teams showcasing their attacking prowess. The game was a celebration of women’s soccer, highlighting the growing popularity and talent within Liga MX Femenil.
This exciting encounter not only provided fans with a memorable spectacle but also underscored the significance of friendly matches in preparing teams for competitive tournaments. The match was attended by 8,672 fans, demonstrating the strong support for women’s soccer in Los Angeles.
This article will delve into the key moments of the match, the standout performances of players like Saldívar and Mauleón, and the strategic decisions made by both coaches. We’ll also explore the broader context of women’s soccer in Mexico and the United States, examining the impact of these international friendlies on the sport’s growth.
Saldívar’s Stunner: América Edges Chivas in LA Thriller
The match began with América taking an early 2-0 lead, thanks to goals from Natalia Mauleón and Irene Guerrero. However, Chivas fought back, leveling the score with goals from Gabriela Valenzuela and Viridiana Salazar. The see-saw battle continued into the second half, with Mauleón again putting América ahead, only for Salazar to equalize once more.
As the game approached its conclusion, a foul on the edge of the Chivas penalty area provided América with a crucial opportunity. Montserrat Saldívar stepped up to take the free-kick and delivered a stunning strike that nestled into the top corner, securing a dramatic 4-3 victory for her team.
Damaris Godínez of Chivas was sent off late in the game for the foul that led to the decisive free-kick. Despite the loss, Chivas showed great resilience and determination throughout the match.
Key Player Performances: Saldívar and Mauleón Shine
Montserrat Saldívar’s match-winning free-kick was the highlight of her performance, but she also contributed significantly to América’s attacking play after coming on as a substitute. Natalia Mauleón’s two goals showcased her clinical finishing and ability to find space in the penalty area.
For Chivas, Viridiana Salazar’s two goals demonstrated her predatory instincts and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Gabriela Valenzuela also impressed with her energetic performance and crucial goal in the first half.
The goalkeepers, Itzel Velasco (América) and Celeste Espino (Chivas), both made important saves throughout the match, highlighting their shot-stopping abilities.
Tactical Analysis: Villacampa vs. Contreras
América’s coach, Ángel Villacampa, made several strategic substitutions throughout the match, including the introduction of Saldívar, which ultimately proved to be decisive. His tactical flexibility and ability to adapt to the flow of the game were key factors in América’s victory.
Chivas’ coach, Antonio Contreras, also made tactical adjustments, but his team was unable to contain América’s attacking threat in the final stages of the game. Despite the loss, Contreras will have been encouraged by his team’s resilience and fighting spirit.
Both coaches emphasized the importance of these friendly matches in preparing their teams for the upcoming Liga MX Femenil season.
The Bigger Picture: Women’s Soccer on the Rise
The match between América and Chivas was a testament to the growing popularity and quality of women’s soccer in Mexico and the United States. The attendance of 8,672 fans in Los Ángeles demonstrated the strong support for the sport in the region.
Liga MX Femenil has become a major force in women’s soccer, attracting talented players from Mexico and around the world. The league’s growth has been driven by increased investment, improved infrastructure, and a growing fanbase.
These international friendlies play an important role in promoting women’s soccer and providing teams with valuable competitive experience.
Lineups
Guadalajara: 1 Celeste Espino; 4 Kinberly Guzmán, 22 Karla Martínez (15 Isabela Esquivias al 59’), 3 Damaris Godínez (EXP al 94’); 26 Araceli Torres, 14 Joselyn De la Rosa (19 Daniela Delgado al 59’), 11 Yamile Franco, 9 Gabriela Valenzuela (18 Montserrat Hernández al 45+4’); 8 Carolina Jaramillo (AM al 8’), 30 Viridiana Salazar (10 Adriana Iturbide al 86’) y 24 Alicia Cervantes (C) (AM al 73’).
D.T. Antonio Contreras
América: 12 Itzel Velasco (1 Sandra Paños al 45’); 2 Jocelyn Orejel (7 Kiana Palacios al 45’), 15 Kimberly Rodríguez (3 Karina Rodríguez al 45’ (AM al 83’)), 16 Sabrina Enciso, 6 Noemí Granados; 5 Irene Guerrero (C) (18 Nancy Antonio al 45’), 44 Alondra Cabanillas (9 Priscila Da Silva al 59’), 17 Natalia Mauleón, 20 Nicolette Hernández (25 Jana Gutiérrez al 45’ (AM al 55’)); 14 Alexa Soto y 10 Scarlett Camberos (19 Montserrat Saldívar al 45’).
D.T. Ángel Villacampa
Final Thoughts: A Win for América, a Boost for Women’s Soccer
Montserrat Saldívar’s late free-kick secured a dramatic victory for América Femenil over Chivas in a thrilling friendly match at the BMO Stadium in Los Ángeles. The game showcased the growing popularity and talent within Liga MX Femenil and provided fans with a memorable spectacle.
The match was not only a victory for América but also a boost for women’s soccer, highlighting the sport’s growing appeal and importance in both Mexico and the United States. As Liga MX Femenil continues to develop, these international friendlies will play an increasingly important role in promoting the sport and providing teams with valuable competitive experience.
The game had an attendance of 8,672 showing the support for women’s soccer, demonstrating the strong support for the sport in the region.
Leave a Reply