The Chilean midfielder spoke after the Eagles’ exit from the 2023 Leagues Cup, and his remarks offered a window into the mood inside the squad following a painful defeat.
Americana suffered a highly dramatic and contentious elimination at the hands of Nashville SC, a club from Major League Soccer. In a shootout that would decide the tie, a pivotal moment arose when the central referee stepped off the field to review a crucial call at the spot. The review focused on a maximum penalty that had been held back by goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón, who is seen advancing before the attack in the replay. The decision to overturn or confirm the penalty became a turning point in a game that had already swung on multiple incidents, and it sparked intense discussion among fans and pundits about the officiating balance in international club competition.
Because of that call, Jonathan dos Santos would miss his sudden-death attempt, allowing Nashville to convert the decisive kick and eliminate América in the quarterfinals. The outcome added another layer to the ongoing debate about how penalties are managed in high-stakes scenarios within the Leagues Cup and how these calls influence a club’s options in future continental tournaments.
In the mixed zone after the match, the Chilean standout spoke about his future and his commitment to the club. Despite lingering rumors linking him with moves to European football, he conveyed a clear message about his desire to remain with Coapa.
“I’m happy here, I want to stay here. My family knows it, and I think they’re calm too. If I’m happy here, it’s because the team, my teammates, and the people at the club have made that sentiment felt. So I’ll stay,” stated the team’s captain for the night, underscoring a strong sense of belonging within the squad.
Valdés reappeared with América late in the night, starting for 63 minutes against Nashville after having missed the prior four matches—one in Liga MX and three in the Leagues Cup. The Chilean winger-midfielder is reported to have contributed one of the goals in the game, a moment that might have shifted the momentum or altered the trajectory of the contest had his presence come earlier. His entrance into the match brought experience and creativity to a game that had already featured tense exchanges and a flurry of opportunities on both sides.
Beyond the immediate disappointment, the match provided a snapshot of América’s depth and resilience as they navigate a congested calendar and a demanding international schedule. The team’s supporters will be hoping for a quick rebound in upcoming fixtures, banking on the leadership and skill that Valdés and his teammates can bring to bear in the pursuit of domestic success and a renewed push in continental play. The club will also weigh tactical adjustments and player workload in light of the congested calendar and the need to balance league responsibilities with international ambitions.
Overall, the night in Nashville underscored both the harsh realities of knockout football and the enduring trust that the club places in its established stars, including Valdés. As the season progresses, the Chilean playmaker’s role is likely to remain central to América’s plans, offering a blend of flair, decision-making, and the experience of wearing the club’s emblem with pride. The outcome of the Leagues Cup run, while disappointing, sets the stage for continued determination and strategic planning as the team eyes a strong finish in both domestic and international assignments. (Goal)