América entered the Clásico Nacional at Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes as clear favorites, given the very realities of both clubs in the Apertura 2025. The Azulcremas were sitting second in the standings, while Chivas were near the bottom in 16th place. But Gabriel Milito’s side stunned their rivals with a 2-1 win on Saturday night.

Getty Images SportJardine admits Chivas were the better side

Goals from Armando González and Roberto Alvarado sealed the upset for the visitors, while USMNT star Alejandro Zendejas pulled one back for the hosts.  Chivas climbed to 11th in the table as América slipped to third.

América head coach André Jardine acknowledged that Chivas deserved their 2-1 victory n the 262nd edition of El Clásico de México.

“We need a big dose of humility and credit Chivas for the match they played. They were the better team. They earned the three points, and we have to focus on what’s ahead,” Jardine said after the loss.

The Brazilian coach pointed out that América started strong but failed to capitalize.

“I felt we controlled much of the first half, even if we didn’t create enough chances. For me, Chivas delivered their best defensive performance of the season,” he said.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportMilito: 'Let this be a starting point for us'

Chivas head coach Gabriel Milito celebrated his first victory in a Clásico Nacional, stressing that the 2-1 triumph over América should not be labeled as an upset but rather as a deserved result – and perhaps a turning point for his team.

“It wasn’t a shock result, I don’t see it that way. The team had already been showing positive signs. When you don’t win, it feels like everything is wrong, starting with the coach, and the players get questioned too. But this was no fluke – we came to win and fully earned it,” Milito said.

The Argentine manager pushed back against the narrative of a “batacazo,” or surprise, insisting it disrespects his squad.

“Those are just labels to mislead people. They say upset, but I don’t want that word to diminish what my players achieved. This team deserves respect. If someone wants to call it an upset, that’s up to them – but for us, it was merit,” he said.

Getty Images SportAmérica face tough challenge at Monterrey

After falling in the Clásico Nacional, América must regroup quickly as they head into one of their toughest tests of the season. Next Saturday, the Águilas will visit league leaders Rayados de Monterrey in what promises to be the marquee matchup of the upcoming round.

Getty Images SportTeams scuffle after goal

Tensions boiled over after Chivas’ second goal, scored by Armando González, as players from both sides got involved in shoves and heated exchanges. América’s frustration was evident while Chivas celebrated what was shaping up to be a crucial victory.

The scuffle didn’t escalate into anything more, and no red cards were shown, but it highlighted just how charged the Clásico Nacional remains.