Atletico de San Luis vs. Cruz Azul Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 12 August 2025

Atletico de San Luis faces Cruz Azul in an exciting Liga MX clash at Estadio Alfonso Lastras on 12 August 2025. This is an important early-season matchup in the fourth round of the competition. San Luis, currently 13th with 3 points, is looking to bounce back after suffering two consecutive league losses. On the other hand, Cruz Azul, positioned 7th with 5 points, remains unbeaten but has shown some defensive vulnerabilities recently.

Cruz Azul enters the match as favourites with odds of 1.74 to win, thanks to their solid form and attacking prowess, highlighted by top scorer Angel Sepulveda’s four goals in three matches.

However, San Luis could be a tough nut to crack at home, especially with Joao Pedro leading their attack, having netted twice so far.

A recommended bet could be Atletico de San Luis (+1) in the European Handicap, as they are expected to fight hard and keep the game close.

Expect a competitive encounter with Cruz Azul likely edging ahead narrowly.

Atletico de San Luis vs Cruz Azul Prediction & Betting Tip

For the upcoming clash between Atletico de San Luis and Cruz Azul, our recommended betting tip is to go for Atletico de San Luis (+1) in the European Handicap. Given the current form and match dynamics, this prediction offers a solid balance between risk and reward.

Atletico de San Luis vs Cruz Azul Prediction
Betting tip	Odds
Atletico de San Luis (+1) in European Handicap	3.77

• Atletico de San Luis has shown they can hold their ground, evidenced by their previous home win against Cruz Azul (3-1).
• Cruz Azul, despite their solid position and scoring prowess, has some defensive vulnerabilities, particularly highlighted by the 7-0 loss to Seattle in the Leagues Cup.
• With both teams having contrasting recent fortunes, a narrow margin game (potentially a draw) seems highly likely.

This match promises to be tight, with Cruz Azul likely just edging ahead, but San Luis’s resilient home form means this is a solid bet.

Atletico de San Luis vs Cruz Azul Odds

The betting odds for the matchup between Atletico de San Luis and Cruz Azul reflect the latter’s status as favourites, but they also hint at a competitive game.

Atletico de San Luis vs Cruz Azul Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
Atletico de San Luis	4.15
Draw	3.77
Cruz Azul	1.74

Cruz Azul, coming off a series of strong performances in Liga MX, is backed at 1.74 to win. This is largely due to their attacking prowess, led by Angel Sepulveda, who has scored four goals in three matches.

On the flip side, Atletico de San Luis, currently positioned 13th with three points, has odds of 4.15, indicating they are the underdogs. Their resilience at home, however, cannot be underestimated.

A draw is also a feasible outcome with odds at 3.77, especially given San Luis’s ability to keep games tight. This is a game where both teams will be eager to secure crucial points early in the season.

Atletico de San Luis Team Analysis

Recent Performance

Atletico de San Luis’s recent form has been a rollercoaster, with two wins followed by three losses. Their last five matches are as follows:

• Minnesota United 0-2 Atletico de San Luis (Leagues Cup)
• Real Salt Lake 2-2 Atletico de San Luis (Penalty shoot-out: 1-4, Leagues Cup)
• Portland Timbers 4-0 Atletico de San Luis (Leagues Cup)
• CD Guadalajara 4-3 Atletico de San Luis (Liga MX Apertura)
• Atletico de San Luis 0-1 Monterrey (Liga MX Apertura)

Despite the mixed results, they have shown decent attacking intent, averaging 2.20 goals scored in their last five games. However, defensive frailties are evident, with only one clean sheet during this period. This inconsistency has left them in 13th place with 3 points in the Liga MX standings.

Their top scorer, Joao Pedro, with 2 goals, has been a key figure, and the team will be hoping to leverage their home advantage to bounce back against Cruz Azul.

Atletico de San Luis Key Players

Atletico de San Luis will rely heavily on their key players to upset the odds against Cruz Azul. Notably, their top scorer Joao Pedro has netted 2 goals so far and will be a central figure in their attacking strategy. Another player to watch is the versatile midfielder Benjamin Galdames, who brings creativity and energy to the middle of the park.
In defence, the combination of Roman Torres and Juanpe will be pivotal in dealing with Cruz Azul’s attacking threats, particularly against the in-form Angel Sepulveda.

Here’s the expected lineup for Atletico de San Luis:

• Goalkeeper: Andres Sanchez
• Defenders: Roman Torres, Juanpe, Eduardo Aguila, Juan Manuel Sanabria
• Midfielders: Rodrigo Dourado, Sébastien Salles Lamonge, Yan Phillipe, Benjamin Galdames, Miguel García
• Forward: João Pedro Galvão

The on-field battles, such as Joao Pedro vs Cruz Azul’s defenders and Torres vs Sepulveda, will be crucial in determining the game’s outcome.

Atletico de San Luis Suspensions & Injuries

For the upcoming match against Cruz Azul, Atletico de San Luis is dealing with a notable injury concern. Forward Franck Boli is currently out with a thigh injury, and his potential return remains doubtful. The absence of Boli could impact their attacking options, placing additional pressure on Joao Pedro to deliver in front of goal. However, there are no suspensions currently affecting the squad, allowing head coach Guillermo Abascal to otherwise field his preferred lineup.

This slight setback in attack means San Luis will need to ensure their other attacking players, like Benjamin Galdames and Miguel García, step up their game. With Cruz Azul’s defence looking somewhat vulnerable, the absence of Boli adds an extra layer of challenge for the home team.

Atletico de San Luis Tactics and Formation

Atletico de San Luis will likely adopt a tactically flexible approach for their clash against Cruz Azul. Under the guidance of head coach Guillermo Abascal, here’s a breakdown of their expected set-up:

Atletico de San Luis Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: João Pedro Galvão
• Midfield Trio: Rodrigo Dourado (CDM), Sébastien Salles Lamonge (CDM), Benjamin Galdames (CAM)
• Defensive Setup: Roman Torres and Juanpe at the heart of the defense, supported by full-backs Eduardo Aguila and Juan Manuel Sanabria
• Attacking Wings: Yan Phillipe and Miguel García

Key strategic points include:

• Attacking Channels: Utilizing the pace and crossing ability of their wingers to supply João Pedro.
• Pressing in Midfield: Dominating central areas with a dynamic midfield trio.
• Defensive Solidity: Maintaining a strong defensive line to combat Cruz Azul’s attacking threats.

Their primary aim will be to balance defensive solidity with incisive attacking plays, leveraging their home advantage to counter Cruz Azul’s favored status. Expect a committed and tactical approach from San Luis as they seek to harness their forward’s goal-scoring capabilities and midfield strength.

Cruz Azul Team Analysis

Recent Performance

Cruz Azul enters this match with strong recent form, having garnered two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five games. Here’s a brief look at their recent performances:

• Cruz Azul 2-2 Colorado Rapids (Penalty shoot-out: 5-4, Leagues Cup)
• LA Galaxy 1-1 Cruz Azul (Penalty shoot-out: 7-8, Leagues Cup)
• Cruz Azul 0-7 Seattle Sounders FC (Leagues Cup)
• Cruz Azul 4-1 León (Liga MX Apertura)
• Atlas 3-3 Cruz Azul (Liga MX Apertura)

Their offensive output has been impressive, with an average of 4.60 goals scored per game over this stretch. However, they have struggled defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches. Forward Ángel Sepúlveda has been in top form, scoring four goals in three matches, making him a key threat against Atlético de San Luis. Despite some defensive lapses, Cruz Azul’s attack provides a significant edge going into this encounter.

Cruz Azul Key Players

Cruz Azul’s lineup for the game against Atlético San Luis is bursting with crucial players who can significantly impact the outcome. Leading the charge is Ángel Sepúlveda, with a spectacular four goals scored in just three matches, making him a potent force in the attack. The midfield dynamism is spearheaded by Ignacio Rivero and Carlos Rodríguez, both providing creativity and stability.

In defence, the trio of Erik Lira, Gonzalo Piovi, and Willer Ditta will be tasked with containing João Pedro. Their resilience will be crucial in stifling San Luis’s offensive threats.

Expected lineup for Cruz Azul:

• Goalkeeper: Kevin Mier
• Defenders: Erik Lira, Gonzalo Piovi, Willer Ditta
• Midfielders: Jorge Sánchez, Ignacio Rivero, Luka Romero, Carlos Rodolfo Rotondi
• Attacking Midfielders: José Antonio Paradela, Carlos Rodríguez
• Forward: Ángel Baltazar Sepúlveda

Key individual battles to watch include Sepúlveda against Román Torres and Piovi versus João Pedro, which could very well decide the flow of the game.

Cruz Azul Suspensions & Injuries

Cruz Azul heads into their match against Atletico de San Luis with a few injury concerns that could impact their performance. Key absentees include Andres Montano, who is out with a cruciate ligament injury and is not expected back until late January 2026. Another player on the doubtful list is Gabriel Fernandez, who is suffering from a knee injury and remains uncertain for this clash.

The absence of these players adds an extra layer of challenge for head coach Nicolas Larcamón. However, there are no suspensions affecting the team, allowing Larcamón to field a potentially strong lineup to cover their defensive gaps.

These injuries, particularly in the defensive area, might leave Cruz Azul vulnerable, complicating their quest for three points on the road.

Cruz Azul Tactics and Formation

Cruz Azul will approach this game with a tactical setup aimed at leveraging their attacking strengths while attempting to shore up their defensive vulnerabilities. Head coach Nicolas Larcamón tends to favour a flexible, attack-minded formation.

Cruz Azul Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Ángel Baltazar Sepúlveda, who has already scored four goals in three matches
• Midfield Duo: Ignacio Rivero (central midfield) and Luka Romero (left central midfielder), both vital for creativity and stability
• Defensive Trio: Erik Lira, Gonzalo Piovi, and Willer Ditta

Key strategic points include:

• Wing Play: Using the width provided by Jorge Sánchez and Carlos Rodolfo Rotondi to stretch the opposition’s defense
• Pressing High: Utilizing a high press to force turnovers and quickly transition into attack
• Set-Pieces: Making the most of set-piece situations with dangerous delivery from their creative midfielders

Their primary aim will be to capitalize on their attacking prowess while maintaining a sufficiently compact defense to manage the threats from Atlético de San Luis.

Atletico de San Luis vs Cruz Azul Head-to-Head Statistics

When it comes to head-to-head matchups between Atletico de San Luis and Cruz Azul, the latter has had the upper hand in recent encounters. In their last five meetings:

• Cruz Azul 3-0 Atletico de San Luis (2025-03-16 Liga MX Clausura)
• Atletico de San Luis 3-1 Cruz Azul (2024-09-18 Liga MX Apertura)
• Cruz Azul 3-0 Atletico de San Luis (2024-02-11 Liga MX Clausura)
• Atletico de San Luis 1-2 Cruz Azul (2023-09-30 Liga MX Apertura)
• Cruz Azul 1-0 Atletico de San Luis (2023-03-18 Liga MX Clausura)

This series of matches shows Cruz Azul’s dominance with four wins out of the last five encounters. The only win for San Luis came at home, which could offer them some confidence going into this fixture.

Despite Cruz Azul’s stronger record, Atletico de San Luis defeated them 3-1 at Estadio Alfonso Lastras in September 2024, highlighting that anything can happen in a matchup between these two sides.

Venue and Weather

The upcoming fixture between Atlético de San Luis and Cruz Azul will take place at the Estadio Alfonso Lastras, a venue known for its robust atmosphere and passionate home support. The stadium boasts a capacity of approximately 25,000, providing an intimate yet exhilarating setting for this Liga MX clash.

Regarding the weather, the forecast for 12 August 2025 suggests typical summer conditions with clear skies and mild temperatures. Such conditions are expected to favor open, attacking football, allowing both teams to implement their usual styles without the hindrance of adverse weather.

Atlético de San Luis, familiar with the home conditions, might look to leverage this advantage and set the tempo early. Cruz Azul, on the other hand, will aim to exploit any defensive lapses from San Luis in a game that promises plenty of action. The favorable weather should support a fast-paced and dynamic encounter, enabling both sides to showcase their attacking prowess.

Odds accurate as of 8th November 2025 13:10, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.