Ignacio Ambriz (pictured) is hoping to his first title as head coach of Club America, when it faces Tigres in the second leg of the Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League final on April 27, 2016, in Mexico City. (Photo: Mexsport)
MEXICO CITY – While in the midst of pursuing a second straight Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League title, Club America has lost its last two Liga MX Clausura games by the same 1-0 score.
Despite Saturday’s setback against visiting Toluca, the second-place Aguilas secured a postseason berth.
With that formality out of the way, head coach Ignacio Ambriz will rely on the experience of his squad Wednesday, when Club America takes a 2-0 lead into the home leg of its SCCL final against Tigres.
“We have to turn this around,” the 51-year-old said in regard to the weekend performance. “Ninety minutes await us…hopefully for a title…but we need to edge close to perfection to beat Tigres. From today, we change our tune, which is what we have to do to win the Champions League.”
The six-time CONCACAF club champion’s first leg win in San Nicolas de los Garza last week proved to be a physical affair, with referee Roberto Garcia whistling for 30 total fouls. Second-half goals by Dario Benedetto (49’) and Osvaldo Martinez (90’+3) settled matters, meaning Club America can lift the trophy even with a 1-0 loss at the Estadio Azteca.
“As a manager, one leans on the professionalism of the team,” commented Ambriz. “We know how to play finals, as much the directors and coaching staff, players and, obviously, the fans. We cannot fail them and we hope that they are with us.”
With a third trip to the FIFA Club World Cup also at stake for Club America, the former Necaxa standout is preaching focus.
“I always try to be calm, to think about the things I am doing well, having communication with people who are close,” Ambriz finished. “Matches have to be played. They are 90 minutes in which the team has to be perfect in order to earn the back-to-back championships.”