Puebla vs. Pumas: A Crucial Liga MX Clash
On March 7th, 2025, Estadio Cuauhtémoc witnessed a pivotal Liga MX Clausura 2025 matchup between Club Puebla and Pumas UNAM. This game marked the Liga MX debut of Efraín Juárez as Pumas' head coach, adding extra intrigue to an already crucial encounter for both struggling teams.
A Battle for Redemption
Pumas, languishing in 12th place with a four-game losing streak, desperately needed a win. Their recent 2-0 victory against Alajuelense in the CONCACAF Champions Cup offered a glimmer of hope, but translating that success to the Liga MX was paramount. The return of captain Lisandro Magallán from injury boosted their spirits. Meanwhile, Puebla, sitting at 15th, also faced immense pressure after a string of poor results, including a recent 2-0 loss to Querétaro. Both teams sought to improve their playoff chances and regain some lost credibility.
Match Recap: Puebla Edges Pumas 1-0
Facundo Waller's early goal gave Puebla the lead, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Pumas. Despite a red card for Puebla's Brayan Angulo just before halftime, Pumas couldn't find the equalizer despite dominating possession in the second half. Miguel Jiménez, Puebla's goalkeeper, proved instrumental in securing the 1-0 victory for his side.
Post-Match Analysis: A Missed Opportunity for Pumas
While Pumas controlled much of the second half, their finishing let them down. Efraín Juárez's tactical decisions were under scrutiny, as the team seemed to struggle with the transition to his new style. For Puebla, the win, albeit against a ten-man team, provided much-needed points, offering a boost of confidence as they look ahead. The match highlighted the challenges both teams face as they fight to improve their standings.
Looking Ahead
This match served as a microcosm of the struggles both Puebla and Pumas are facing. The result leaves Pumas with continued work to do to climb the table while Puebla gained valuable ground. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial for both teams as they battle for playoff spots. The Liga MX season remains intensely competitive, with every point vital.
Where to Watch
The match was broadcast on various platforms, including Azteca 7, Fox Sports, TUDN, Prime Video, and Fox Sports Premium.