The ‘Exterminating Angel’ of El Clásico de México | OneFootball

One of the best things about El Clásico de México is the unforgettable stories it gives us. The rivalry between the two greatest antagonists in Mexican soccer is filled with heroes and villains whose feats live on in collective memory. Today, we recall one of Chivas’ true talismans against the Eagles.

After making a strong impression with Tampico Madero and Rayados de Monterrey, Guadalajara signed a tall striker named Héctor Del Ángel ahead of the Invierno 1998 tournament, looking to strengthen an attack that at the time featured names like Luis García—and later added Ricardo Peláez.

Born in El Higo, Veracruz, Del Ángel spent three years with Guadalajara, alternating between starting and substitute roles. Yet he left a very noticeable mark in red and white: his favorite victim was Club América.

In total, Del Ángel played four editions of El Clásico de México and scored three goals—earning him the nickname 'El Ángel Exterminador'.

It all began in his debut semester, on September 20, 1998, at the Estadio Jalisco. Wearing number 17, he came on for García, who left injured. His impact was immediate: after an aerial ball left loose by the América goalkeeper near the penalty spot, Del Ángel struck a perfectly tight half-volley to score the lone goal in a 1-0 victory.

He repeated the feat in Verano 1999. Once again replacing 'Doctor' García, he needed only eight minutes to get on the scoreboard. From a set piece on the left wing delivered by the cultured right foot of Alberto Coyote, Del Ángel timed his run inside the box, beat his marker, and powered home a header at the near post—sealing another 0-1 win for the Rebaño.

Finally, we go back to Verano 2000—an episode with special meaning for the talisman. In the days before the match, he suffered the passing of his mother. Still, with unwavering commitment to his team, he started against the archrival. In the 26th minute, Benjamín Galindo fired a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box, forcing a rebound from goalkeeper Adolfo Ríos. The ball fell perfectly to Del Ángel, who struck it left-footed without hesitation, sending the Estadio Jalisco into an emotional eruption—his tears dedicated to the sky. That afternoon marked the beginning of a 3-0 rout over the bitter rival.

As we approach another weekend filled with the emotional swing that only this rivalry can bring, it’s impossible not to fondly remember the passion with which we celebrated every Guadalajara goal—especially when players as clinical as the 'Exterminating Angel' wore the red and white.