Just months after lifting the Clausura 2026 trophy and the Campeón de Campeones, Cruz Azul finds itself in unfamiliar territory: looking up at the rest of Liga MX. The machine that seemed unstoppable under the guidance of Joel Huiqui has sputtered, and the term champion syndrome is now part of the vocabulary around La Noria.
The warning signs first appeared in international competition. A group-stage exit in the Leagues Cup, sealed by a late Chicago Fire equalizer, was followed by a sobering Campeones Cup defeat to Lionel Messi's Inter Miami. In that match, the Cementeros were outclassed, unable to generate meaningful chances against the MLS champions. For a club that had just conquered Mexico, the contrast was stark.
Domestic struggles and rotation risks
Back in Liga MX, Huiqui's early-season squad rotation backfired. Consecutive losses to Atlante, Tijuana, and Atlas set the tone, and despite a morale-boosting Clásico Joven victory over Club América, the inconsistency persists. A defeat to Monterrey and a blown two-goal lead against Toluca have left the team searching for answers.
The pattern is troubling: Cruz Azul starts strong, builds momentum, then fades. Opponents exploit defensive disorganization and turn matches around in minutes. It's a mental fragility that wasn't there during the title run.
Internal friction adds another layer. Reports of tension between Huiqui and the sporting directorate have fueled speculation about his authority. With the Liguilla on the horizon, the club must address both the tactical and psychological issues during the upcoming FIFA international window.
For a fanbase that has waited through decades of heartbreak, the current slump is a bitter pill. The promise of a new golden era has given way to familiar doubts. Yet, as Márquez's Mexico era shows, transitions are rarely smooth. Cruz Azul's challenge is to rediscover its identity before the postseason.
The road ahead includes a crucial stretch of league matches. Huiqui must decide whether to stick with his rotation or trust the core that delivered the double. The rivalry with the US may offer a distraction, but for Cruz Azul, the focus is internal.
As the pressure mounts, one thing is clear: the champion syndrome is real, and only a strong response will silence the critics. The rise of young talent elsewhere in Mexican football only adds to the urgency. Cruz Azul must find its footing, or risk watching the Liguilla from the sidelines.
