Cruz Azul has faced a series of challenges in its recent performance, where defensive solidity has been a critical point. While the team has had moments of brilliance in attack, fragility in the backline has cost valuable points. The key to becoming competitive again may lie in some tactical adjustments that strengthen the defensive line and improve communication among players.

A concerning aspect has been the lack of coordination between the center-backs and the full-backs. The high press that the team attempts to implement often exposes defenders to one-on-one situations, leading to mistakes that result in conceded goals. To mitigate this, one option would be to adjust the formation to a more compact defensive system, perhaps a 4-2-3-1, which allows central midfielders to provide greater support to the defense.

Additionally, incorporating a more robust defensive midfielder could help break up the opponent's plays before they reach the backline. This player could act as a bridge between defense and attack, ensuring that the transition is smoother and minimizing the opponent's opportunities. La Máquina should consider utilizing a player with good game-reading ability in that position.

Another aspect to consider is the positioning of the full-backs. While Cruz Azul's offensive game proposal seeks to push the full-backs forward, this has left gaps at the back. Implementing a rotation system or more adequate coverage from midfielders could close those gaps and protect the defense against the opponent's counterattacks.

Finally, communication is key. The arrival of new players has altered the team's dynamics, and it is vital for defenders to establish clear and effective communication during matches. Practicing defensive situations in training, simulating different scenarios of the opponent's attack, could improve cohesion and decision-making in critical situations.

In conclusion, Cruz Azul has the potential to be a formidable team, but to achieve this, it is imperative that tactical adjustments are made to strengthen their defense. With a focus on team compactness and effective communication, La Máquina could reverse its fortunes and become a serious contender in the League.