Cruz Azul vs. FC Juarez Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 20 September 2025

This exciting clash at Estadio Azteca sees second-placed Cruz Azul taking on ninth-placed FC Juarez in the ninth round of Liga MX. Cruz Azul, under the guidance of Nicolás Larcamón, have been on an impressive unbeaten streak at home in this tournament, highlighting their fortitude and consistency.

Cruz Azul have bagged 20 points so far, largely thanks to Angel Sepulveda’s five goals this season. However, Sepulveda is doubtful for this match due to a hamstring injury. Even with potential absences, Cruz Azul are the bookmaker favourites, reflecting their unrivalled home form.

FC Juarez, managed by Martín Varini, have shown resilience too, particularly in their last four games, where they’ve remained unbeaten and won three. Oscar Estupinan, their top scorer with three goals, will look to breach Cruz Azul’s defence.

Consider betting on FC Juarez to win Draw No Bet. Given their solid form and Cruz Azul’s injury woes, an upset is possible.

Expect an engaging match as both sides look to sustain their excellent form.

Cruz Azul vs FC Juarez Prediction & Betting tip

Cruz Azul vs FC Juarez Prediction
Betting tip	Odds
FC Juarez to win Draw No Bet	5.78

• Cruz Azul have flaunted a solid home unbeaten streak; however, they’re missing key players due to injuries and suspensions.
• FC Juarez have demonstrated commendable fortitude, remaining unbeaten in their last four matches and securing three wins.
• With Cruz Azul potentially weakened, this opens an avenue for Juarez to leverage their momentum and aim for a favourable result.

Given these dynamics, betting on FC Juarez to win with a Draw No Bet is a calculated gamble worth considering, especially with attractive odds.

Cruz Azul vs FC Juarez Odds

Looking at the odds for this Liga MX matchup between Cruz Azul and FC Juarez, it’s clear that the bookmakers are placing their bets on Cruz Azul as the favourites. However, with the current form and some key injuries, placing a bet on this game might require a closer look.

Cruz Azul vs FC Juarez Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
Cruz Azul	1.46
Draw	4.32
FC Juarez	5.78

Despite Cruz Azul’s strong position in the league, FC Juarez’s recent performances can’t be overlooked. Their unbeaten streak and the potential weaknesses in Cruz Azul’s lineup due to injuries create an interesting dynamic for potential bets. The high odds for a Juarez win might be tempting for those looking for a bigger payout.

Cruz Azul Team Analysis

Cruz Azul Recent Performance

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Cruz Azul have been on fire recently, winning their last five matches in Liga MX:

• Pachuca 0 – 1 Cruz Azul (13 Sep 2025)
• CD Guadalajara 1 – 2 Cruz Azul (31 Aug 2025)
• Cruz Azul 1 – 0 Toluca (24 Aug 2025)
• Cruz Azul 3 – 2 Santos Laguna (17 Aug 2025)
• Atlético de San Luis 1 – 2 Cruz Azul (12 Aug 2025)

This stellar performance has helped them climb to second place in the standings with 20 points. They have managed to keep two clean sheets in their last five games and are averaging 1.80 goals per match. However, they will miss Angel Sepulveda, their top scorer with five goals, due to a hamstring injury, and Jesus Orozco due to a suspension.

Despite these setbacks, Cruz Azul’s consistent form and strong defensive record put them in a favourable position for this upcoming clash against FC Juarez.

Cruz Azul Key Players

Cruz Azul’s attacking prowess largely hinges on the contributions of Angel Sepulveda, who has netted five goals this season. Despite his current hamstring injury, his presence reflects Cruz Azul’s offensive strength. In addition, Gabriel Fernandez will be crucial in leading the line, particularly with Sepulveda out.

The midfield, featuring Carlos Rodriguez and Luka Romero, will also play a vital role in controlling possession and distributing the ball effectively. Defensively, Kevin Mier, the goalkeeper, has been reliable, keeping two clean sheets in their last five games.

Expected lineup for Cruz Azul:

• Goalkeeper: Kevin Mier
• Defenders: Willer Ditta, Erik Lira, Gonzalo Piovi
• Midfielders: Jorge Sanchez, Luka Romero, Carlos Rodriguez, Carlos Rodolfo Rotondi, José Antonio Paradela, Ignacio Rivero
• Forward: Gabriel Fernandez

The duel between Gabriel Fernandez and FC Juarez’s defensive line, including Jose Garcia Manríquez, promises to be a pivotal battle on the pitch.

Cruz Azul Suspensions & Injuries

Cruz Azul is facing a few critical absences which could influence their gameplay dynamics in this clash against FC Juarez. Key players missing include:

• Angel Sepulveda: The team’s top scorer with five goals, is sidelined with a hamstring injury and is expected to be out until late September 2025.
• Andres Montano: Out with a cruciate ligament injury, with a potential return in late January 2026.
• Jesus Orozco: Will miss the match due to suspension following a red card, with one game left on his ban.

These absences may impact Cruz Azul, particularly in their attacking options and defensive setup. Sepulveda’s goalscoring prowess will be a significant miss, and the team will hope Gabriel Fernandez can fill the void upfront.

Cruz Azul Tactics and Formation

Cruz Azul Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Gabriel Fernandez
• Midfield Strength: Carlos Rodriguez, Luka Romero, and Ignacio Rivero
• Defensive Set Up: Three at the back, including Willer Ditta and Gonzalo Piovi, anchored by Erik Lira

Cruz Azul have showcased a robust and versatile approach in their recent matches, maintaining an average of 1.80 goals per game. Their formation allows for a flexible and dynamic midfield, often dominating possession and creating numerous attacking opportunities.

With two clean sheets in their last five games, Cruz Azul’s defence remains a fortress. A notable strategy has been their ability to pressure opponents and exploit the 61-75-minute interval, often breaking down defences to secure their wins. Despite some key absences, their tactical acumen will be critical to maintaining their unbeaten home record against a resilient FC Juarez.

FC Juarez Team Analysis

FC Juarez Recent Performance

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FC Juarez have put forth a solid effort in their last five Liga MX matches:

• Necaxa 1 – 1 FC Juarez (13 Sep 2025)
• FC Juarez 1 – 0 Mazatlan FC (30 Aug 2025)
• FC Juarez 2 – 1 Santos Laguna (23 Aug 2025)
• CD Guadalajara 1 – 2 FC Juarez (16 Aug 2025)
• FC Juarez 0 – 2 Toluca (12 Aug 2025)

Despite a rocky start with a loss to Toluca, they’ve turned things around and remained unbeaten in their last four matches, climbing to ninth in the standings with 12 points. Averaging 1.20 goals per game, they’ve also managed one clean sheet in their last five matches. Their ability to grind out results under Martín Varini’s stewardship has been commendable and will be crucial in navigating the challenge posed by Cruz Azul.

FC Juarez Key Players

FC Juarez have been impressive with their squad depth and key performances recently. Their top scorer, Oscar Estupinan, has netted three goals this season. His presence upfront is crucial as he’ll look to capitalise on Cruz Azul’s defensive frailties.

The midfield, marshalled by Rodolfo Pizarro and José Luis Rodriguez, remains pivotal in Juarez’s transitional play. Both players will be key in breaking down Cruz Azul’s setup and creating scoring opportunities. Defensively, the partnership between Jose Garcia Manríquez and Manuel Mayorga has been essential in maintaining stability at the back.

Expected lineup for FC Juarez:

• Goalkeeper: Sebastián Jurado
• Defenders: Denzell Garcia, Jose Garcia Manríquez, Moises Mosquera, Manuel Alejandro Mayorga
• Midfielders: Homer Martinez, Raymundo Fulgencio, Rodolfo Pizarro, Guilherme Castilho, José Luis Rodriguez
• Forward: Oscar Estupinan

The battle between Estupinan and Cruz Azul’s defensive trio will be one to watch, especially given his recent run of form.

FC Juarez Suspensions & Injuries

FC Juarez are grappling with several injuries that could impact their game against Cruz Azul. Key players on the sidelines include:

• Bryan Romero: Out with a knee injury, with an expected return in early November 2025.
• Jonathan Gonzalez: Suffering from an Achilles tendon injury, making his return doubtful.
• Diego Valoyes: Carrying a knock, his potential return remains uncertain.
• Ían Jairo Torres: Also dealing with a knock injury, doubtful for the clash.
• Francisco Nevarez: Another doubt due to a knock injury.
• Madson: Similarly doubtful with a knock injury.

These absences, particularly in midfield and defensive areas, could affect FC Juarez’s overall stability and depth. Their ability to adapt and fill these gaps will be crucial in maintaining their recent unbeaten run.

FC Juarez Tactics and Formation

FC Juarez Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Oscar Estupinan
• Midfield Creativity: Rodolfo Pizarro and José Luis Rodriguez
• Defensive Solidity: Jose Garcia Manríquez and Manuel Mayorga

FC Juarez have embraced a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation, enabling them to transition effectively between defence and attack. With Rodolfo Pizarro orchestrating the midfield and Oscar Estupinan leading the line, they have averaged 1.20 goals per game recently. This setup has proved successful, with the team remaining unbeaten in their last four matches.

Their defensive strategy, anchored by Jose Garcia Manríquez, has delivered stability, allowing them to keep one clean sheet in their last five matches. A notable strategy has been their resilience and ability to maintain composure under pressure, often striking effectively in the latter stages of the match. Their tactical discipline will be essential against a formidable Cruz Azul side.

Cruz Azul vs FC Juarez Head-to-Head Statistics

Recent encounters between Cruz Azul and FC Juarez have seen an interesting mix of results. Over the last five meetings, Cruz Azul has had the upper hand:

• FC Juarez 1 – 0 Cruz Azul (18 Jan 2025)
• Cruz Azul 4 – 0 FC Juarez (24 Oct 2024)
• FC Juarez 0 – 0 Cruz Azul (20 Jan 2024)
• Cruz Azul 2 – 0 FC Juarez (2 Nov 2023)
• Cruz Azul 1 – 0 FC Juarez (25 Feb 2023)

Cruz Azul has won three and drawn one out of these five matchups, scoring a total of nine goals while conceding only one. This dominance suggests a strong psychological edge for Cruz Azul, particularly when playing at home.

However, FC Juarez’s recent favourable run of form means they shouldn’t be underestimated. This will be a crucial match to watch, especially to see if Juarez can break their losing streak at Estadio Azteca.

Odds accurate as of 18/09/2025 02:01, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.