Sports · Football · 18 hrs ago
Palencia recalls Pumas-América rivalry ahead of the Capital Classic
Former Pumas striker Juan Francisco Palencia spoke about the rivalry with América ahead of the teams’ Capital Classic.
He said the rivalry takes shape from childhood, growing through players, families and fans.
Palencia described Pumas as the heroes and América as the villain in his own view as a player.
In a 3-3 draw in 2005, he scored twice and reached 100 and 101 career goals against América goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.
He said these matches stay in people’s memories and demand full commitment from Pumas players.
Palencia also called a move from América to Pumas especially sensitive for supporters.
Pumas need points to stay in the Liguilla race under coach Esteban Solari, and playing at Ciudad Universitaria could help them.
Juan Francisco Palencia recalled the Pumas-América rivalry ahead of the Capital Classic.
He said Pumas were the heroes and América the villain in his view as a player.
Palencia said the rivalry takes shape from childhood and involves players, families, friends and fans.
He urged current players to enjoy the match and give their supporters the effort they expect.
- Who
- Juan Francisco Palencia, a former Pumas player, discussed the rivalry.
- What
- He recalled the Pumas-América rivalry ahead of the Capital Classic.
- When
- Ahead of the match; the match date is not stated.
- Where
- The rivalry is between Pumas and América in Mexico. Palencia also recalled a match at Estadio Azteca.
- Why
- Palencia said the rivalry is built from childhood and that the Clásico stays in players’ and fans’ memories.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Palencia scored twice against Guillermo Ochoa in a 3-3 draw at Estadio Azteca, reaching the 100th and 101st goals of his professional career.
Infobae published Palencia’s comments ahead of the Pumas-América Capital Classic.
- Teams
- Pumas and América
- Former player
- Juan Francisco Palencia
- Clausura 2005 score
- 3-3
- Venue of 2005 match
- Estadio Azteca
- Palencia’s goals in that match
- Two; his 100th and 101st career goals
What people are saying
We were the heroes and América was the villain; we always beat them.
I thank América, because I would have about 12 fewer goals without those matches.
From the age of seven or eight, you have the rivalry; it builds up, not only with the players, but with parents, friends and fans.
Someone coming from América to Pumas… that really is unforgivable.