Since his arrival in Coapa, Fernando Ortiz has not tasted defeat in Clásicos against Chivas, Cruz Azul, and Pumas.
America sits in second place on the Closure 2023 general table, trailing only Rayados de Monterrey, whose start was nothing short of spectacular. The Águilas now aim for the top spot, with their upcoming league match pitting them against UNAM, a familiar foe for Ortiz from his days in Mexico City and a club with which the Eagles share a long, storied rivalry.
Another edition of the Capital Classic will unfold at the Colossus of Saint Ursula next Saturday, when the regular phase reaches day 16. The most recent meeting at the Eagles’ home ended in a 1-3 result in favor of the Felinos during the Open 2021 quarterfinals, a tie that ultimately did not frustrate UNAM, who fell to the eventual champions Atlas in the semifinals.
America and the Pumas share a rivalry rich in history, rooted in their common origin in the Mexican capital. The two clubs have faced each other more than 167 times across all competitions, including three finals. Lately, the balance has leaned toward Azulcremas since Ortiz took the managerial helm, but that shift is part of a broader narrative. The Argentine manager has steered the team through a run with zero losses in Clásicos against his main adversaries: Chivas, Cruz Azul, and Pumas.
Since stepping in as interim coach at the start of Closure 2022, following the departure of compatriot Santiago Solari, Ortiz has reframed the Eagles’ performance in the Clásicos matches. He has overseen seven competitive appearances, recording five wins and two draws, a streak that has elevated the club’s confidence and sharpened its competitive edge in one of Mexican football’s most intense rivalries.
ORIENTING THE TANO ORTÍZ’S CLASSIC RECORD
The trajectory under Ortiz’s leadership highlights a shift in expectations and a renewed sense of purpose for America. His approach emphasizes disciplined defense, quick transitions, and a clinical finishing touch that has often decided tight games against elite rivals. The team’s ability to extract maximum effort from its squad in high-stakes clashes has become a hallmark of his tenure, converting pressure into points and turning potential turning points into solid results. This mindset has cultivated a mentality of resilience and consistency, especially when facing long-standing adversaries in the Mexican capital.
As the season advances, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely how Ortiz continues to balance tactical pragmatism with the creative impulse that fuels the Eagles’ attack. The clash with Pumas, a team steeped in history and local pride, promises to be a pivotal test of that philosophy. For America, the objective remains simple: maintain momentum, extend the unbeaten run in classic derbies, and push toward the top of the table while keeping precious clean sheets intact.
Notes: This overview summarizes Ortiz’s impact on Clásicos through the current phase and reflects ongoing assessments of his strategic choices and results, as reported by Goal.