Defensive midfielder Edwin Cerrillo will experience his first Clásico Nacional this Saturday when América visits league-leading Guadalajara Chivas in Matchweek 9 of the Apertura 2026. The 25-year-old, signed by Las Águilas for this tournament, acknowledges the moment's significance for his career and his family.
Cerrillo explained the personal importance of the match. "It will be the biggest football experience I have lived, not only for me, but also for my family," the player said. He added that the duel transcends sport, stating: "This Clásico goes beyond the field, what it means for this country and for this club."
The game is a key opportunity for América, which arrives after losing its unbeaten run to Cruz Azul 4-3 and sits in third place with 16 points, albeit with one game in hand over its rival. For Chivas, the clash is a chance to solidify its lead. The red-and-white team tops the championship with 17 points after eight matchweeks, one more than Toluca, and comes from a 3-0 thrashing of Pumas last Saturday.
That victory, featuring a brace from Santiago Sandoval and a goal from Bryan González, allowed Chivas to overtake Toluca and América in the standings. Their recent form is strong, with four wins and one draw in the last five games. The last meeting between these teams, in February, ended with a 1-0 win for Chivas.
For Cerrillo, aged 25, this clásico marks one of the most important chapters of his early stint with América. The midfielder has accumulated 315 minutes of playing time in the tournament, looking to cement his place in the team. The duel will be played on September 20 at the Estadio Azteca. Following this match, América's next official fixture is on September 27, when they host Atlético de San Luis in Matchweek 10 of the Apertura 2026. Fans can check the team's full schedule on our fixtures page and the standings situation.
This story first appeared at Record MX
