America fall apart in 2nd half in loss to Santos

In week 17 Liga MX action America fell to the visiting Santos Laguna. America are still in the mix for a playoff spot after the loss falling to 5th and will play their last regular-season game against Veracruz next week. Santos are now the LigaMX league leaders with 33 points and will host Cruz Azul next week.

America opened up the score at the 40th minute with Andres Ibarguen beating the Santos goalkeeper. Renato Ibarra launched a strike from outside the box that the Santos keeper blocked away. The ball remained inbounds and Henry Martin hustled to recover the ball. Martin found Roger Martinez in the box who linked up with Ibarguen and opened up the score.

Santos came out guns blazing in the second half and changed the momentum of the game. Even though America controlled the possession for most of the game, they failed to capitalize on their shots on goal.

At the 67th minute, Santos scored after a fantastic cross from Erick Castillo to Diego Valdez. The Colombian striker beat out Bruno Valdez and hit the ball into the back of the net past a stunned Guillermo Ochoa.

America’s Antonio Lopez committed a foul at the 69th minute awarding Santos a penalty and effectively sealing the game. Bryan Lozano smashed a kick past Ochoa to give Santos a 2-1 lead.

America countered by bringing on to the pitch Nico Castillo and returning Gio Dos Santos. Both would have little impact on the game. Miguel Herrera and Guillermo Almada were both given red cards for their constant complaining towards the 4th referee. Herrera had just come back from a 3 game suspension.

America saw its three game undefeated streak snapped by Santos and will look to finish the regular season strong next week. They will need a win next win against Verazcruz if they and hope to finish in the top four of the Liga MX table. Santos has two games left in their regular season and can be the league leader heading into the Liga MX playoffs if they continue their great displays on the field.