After the emotional blow of losing the Clausura 2025 final to Toluca, André Jardine América has no time to dwell on defeat. "Las Águilas" are now fully focused on their next major challenge: a one-off match against LAFC for a ticket to the FIFA Club World Cup.

The high stakes clash, set for this Saturday in the United States, is shaping up to be the perfect opportunity for the azulcrema side to close out the semester on a high note and regain some of their lost prestige. Jardine knows there’s no room for error and is carefully weighing his lineup options.

Wounded Eagles Still Soar with Pride

After dominating Liga MX with three straight championships, América reign came to a halt with a 2–0 aggregate loss to Toluca in the final. Now, redemption must come on the international stage.

“This is a new chance to show who we really are,” Jardine reportedly told his squad during a private meeting, according to sources close to the club. The Brazilian coach is considering making key adjustments to his starting XI including possibly using a player who saw no action during the domestic campaign.

Lichnovsky Surprise Return?

One of the main surprises could be the return of Chilean defender Igor Lichnovsky, who is finally fit after several months of inactivity. Although he was medically cleared weeks ago, Lichnovsky couldn’t be registered for either Liga MX or the Concachampions due to the team foreign player limit.

The center back has been training at full strength and is available for selection against LAFC, though questions remain about his match fitness. Jardine currently favors the in-form trio of Sebastián Cáceres, Israel Reyes, and Ramón Juárez, who finished the season with solid performances.

Still, Lichnovsky international experience and composure in high-pressure situations could tip the scales in his favor. If Jardine decides to roll the dice, the Chilean might just be the surprise inclusion in the starting lineup.

More Than a Ticket, It’s About Honor

For América, this game isn’t just about qualifying for the Club World Cup. It’s about pride, redemption, and proving why they’re considered one of Mexico footballing giants.

The pressure is enormous, but so is the motivation. LAFC boasts star power, intensity, and home-field advantage but América brings pedigree, history, and the urgent need to turn things around. Their final shot at salvaging the semester will be fired this Saturday.