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Cruz Azul's Late Penalty Secures Victory Over Tigres in Thrilling CONCACAF Champions Cup Semifinal
In a heart-stopping CONCACAF Champions Cup semi-final second leg, Cruz Azul snatched a dramatic 1-0 win over Tigres UANL, securing their place in the final against the Vancouver Whitecaps. The match, played at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario in Mexico City on May 1st, 2025, was a tense affair from start to finish, with a late penalty proving to be the decisive moment.
A Tightly Contested Battle
The first leg had ended in a 1-1 draw, setting the stage for an explosive second leg. Both teams displayed intense determination and skillful play, creating several scoring opportunities throughout the match. Tigres, known for their offensive capabilities, started strongly, testing Cruz Azul's defense early on. Their goalkeeper, Nahuel Guzmán, put in a stellar performance, making several crucial saves to keep the score level at 0-0 at halftime.
- Tigres' early pressure: Tigres came out aggressively, nearly scoring multiple times in the opening minutes.
- Guzmán's heroics: Tigres' goalkeeper, Nahuel Guzmán, made several key saves, thwarting Cruz Azul's attacks throughout the game.
- Missed chances: Both Cruz Azul and Tigres missed several golden opportunities to score.
The second half continued to be a closely fought battle, with neither team able to break the deadlock. Cruz Azul's Ignacio Rivero had several chances, but Guzmán remained impenetrable. The game remained tense and goalless until the 82nd minute.
The Decisive Penalty
The turning point arrived in the 82nd minute when Tigres substitute, Marcelo Flores, handled the ball in the penalty area. After a VAR review, a penalty was awarded to Cruz Azul. Ángel Sepúlveda stepped up to take the penalty and coolly slotted the ball past Guzmán, sparking wild celebrations from the home crowd. Sepúlveda's goal, his seventh of the tournament, proved to be the winner.
- VAR intervention: The referee used VAR to confirm the penalty, highlighting the importance of technology in modern football.
- Sepúlveda's winning goal: Ángel Sepúlveda's penalty kick secured the victory for Cruz Azul and sent them to the final.
- Flores's handball: Marcelo Flores' handball proved to be a costly mistake for Tigres.
Tigres launched a desperate late assault, but Cruz Azul held firm, defending their slender lead with grit and determination. The final whistle blew, signaling Cruz Azul's hard-fought victory and their advancement to the final. The final score of the second leg was 1-0 to Cruz Azul, giving them a 2-1 aggregate victory.
Road to the Final
This victory marks Cruz Azul's ninth appearance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup final, their first since 2014. They will now face the Vancouver Whitecaps FC, who caused a major upset by eliminating Lionel Messi's Inter Miami CF in the other semi-final. The final promises to be an exciting clash between a Liga MX giant and a strong MLS challenger.
- A Mexican Final: For the 21st consecutive year, a Liga MX team will feature in the CONCACAF Champions Cup final.
- Vancouver Whitecaps await: Cruz Azul will face the Vancouver Whitecaps, who defeated Inter Miami, in the final.
- Sepúlveda's tournament-leading performance: Sepúlveda's penalty goal is indicative of his impressive seven goals and two assists throughout the tournament.
Conclusion
The Cruz Azul vs. Tigres UANL semi-final was a captivating encounter that showcased the intensity and skill of Mexican football. Ángel Sepúlveda's late penalty secured a dramatic victory for Cruz Azul, sending them to the CONCACAF Champions Cup final. The final against the Vancouver Whitecaps promises to be an unforgettable match.
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