Elizabeth Fuentes/Jam Media/LatinContent/Getty ImagesThe return of Rubens Sambueza should bolster Club America's attack against Cruz Azul.

With the Clasico Joven just a few hours away, here are the four factors that will define victory for America at the Estadio Azteca on Saturday afternoon.

1. A fast start = road to victory

Only once this season has America scored first and not ended up winning the game. That game was the ill-fated, woodwork-filled match at the Estadio Jalisco in which the team played arguably its best game and still came away with a 2-1 loss against Atlas.

It is exceedingly important that the team pick up an early goal and set the tone early. It will validate Miguel Herrera's attacking style and allow the team to drop back and look for a second goal via the counterattack.

2. Will the real Christian Benitez please stand up?

The Ecuadorian striker has been dreadful these past few weeks. Earlier this week, on ESPN's Futbol Picante, America legend Zague stated the time is not right for Herrera to think about benching Benitez. I disagree. Goal-scorers, like most players, are creatures driven by form, and Benitez doesn't have it right now.

If America is in a close game at halftime, with Benitez not pulling his weight, Herrera should cut the cord and plug Narciso Mina in for the second half. Benitez's countryman is coming off a hat trick in the cup and looks more to be getting the hang of the Liga MX. If Benitez snaps out of his funk, that speaks for itself.

3. The return of Rubens Sambueza and Diego Reyes

Another boon obtained from the Copa MX was the fact that Herrera was able to give Rubens Sambueza regular minutes at a high level despite being suspended from the league. Meanwhile, Diego Reyes tested his health after missing a couple of weeks due to injury and did so admirably.

Thus, it should be a foregone conclusion that both players will be ready to go this Saturday, the first game since Tijuana three weeks ago in which all 11 regular starters will be available for the team. Without Reyes, America gave up three goals. Without Sambueza, they went blank against Santos Laguna. Welcome back.

4. Contain 'Chaco'

Chaco Gimenez is a jilted ex who has made a career out of frustrating America since leaving the team in 2006. He became a legend in Pachuca after leading that team to several league titles, the most notable of which came in 2007 against America.
With Cruz Azul, he has only scored a goal against the team, though his ultimate effect on the team comes from pulling the string in midfield and establishing himself as a master passer in big situations. A tough test for Jesus Molina.

Parting Shot: Let's make it 12

Cruz Azul has not won an away game in their last 11 trips out of the Estadio Azul, with the last one coming in Mexico City... against Pumas in August of 2012.

• Recommend0
• Tweet0
• Email