Cruz Azul begins its journey in the Leagues Cup 2026 with doubts, after the club decided to place a flag on the iconic statue of Rocky Balboa located on the steps of the Art Museum in Philadelphia. The belief in this curse originated years ago in American football, but gained strength in the past World Cup 2026. Ecuador's national team was a victim of the same, as their fans placed flags and Tricolor scarves on Rocky, and the team led by Sebastian Beccacece lost 1-0 in the first round against Ivory Coast.
What happened?
The history of the curse of the Rocky Balboa statue in Philadelphia dates back to 2002, when Green Bay Packers fans visited the statue before a preseason NFL game. After that, the Philadelphia Eagles won 20-13, which many saw as the start of the curse.
Why it matters for Cruz Azul?
Cruz Azul faces the supposed curse of the Rocky Balboa statue in Philadelphia before their Leagues Cup 2026 match. The history of the Machine has already started with doubts, after the club decided to place a flag on the iconic statue of Rocky Balboa located on the steps of the Art Museum in Philadelphia.
What comes next?
It's time to see if Cruz Azul is affected or if Joel Huiqui avoids defeat in the match this Thursday. The history of the curse of the Rocky Balboa statue in Philadelphia is a pending topic for the administration of Victor Velazquez and Ivan Alonso.
The Liga MX is in its regular season, with Cruz Azul in sixth place with 6 points, 2 wins, 0 draws, and 1 loss in 3 games. The Machine is one point behind the leaders Club America. In their last match, Cruz Azul lost 3-2 against Atlante FC. Next week, Cruz Azul will face Club Tijuana in an away match.
Currently, player Amaury Morales is injured and will not be able to participate in the match this Thursday.
