In a thrilling match on Sunday, Cruz Azul emerged victorious against Tigres in the sixth round of the Clausura, held at the Estadio Azteca. The home team celebrated two goals from Nicolás Ibáñez (14’ 2T) and an own goal by Joaquim Pereira (10’ 2T). Tigres managed to score once through Ángel Correa (25’ 2T), but it was not enough to clinch a point.
After securing a lead, Cruz Azul had a chance to extend their advantage when Carlos Rodríguez struck the post in the 59th minute, missing an opportunity to make it 3-1.
Nicolás Ibáñez was undoubtedly the standout player of the match, contributing one goal and creating multiple chances with five shots on target. Additionally, goalkeeper Andrés Gudiño played a crucial role, saving five shots on goal and ensuring the team’s defensive fortitude.
Under the guidance of head coach Nicolás Larcamón, Cruz Azul employed a 4-5-1 formation, with Gudiño in goal, a defensive line featuring Omar Campos, Willer Ditta, Gonzalo Piovi, and Erik Lira, while the midfield included Agustín Palavecino, Jeremy Márquez, Carlos Rodríguez, José Paradela, and Rodolfo Rotondi, allowing Ibáñez to lead the attack.
Tigres, managed by Guido Pizarro, set up in a 3-4-3 formation, with Nahuel Guzmán in goal, and a defensive trio consisting of Juan José Purata, Joaquim Pereira, and Vladimir Loroña. Their midfield included César Araujo, Fernando Gorriarán, Jesús Garza, and Marcelo Flores, while the forward line boasted Diego Lainez, Rodrigo Aguirre, and Ángel Correa.
The match was officiated by referee Daniel Quintero Huitrón.
Looking ahead, Cruz Azul will face Chivas in their next match, while Tigres will host Pachuca at the Universitario stadium.
With this win, Cruz Azul reaches 13 points, placing them second in the standings, while Tigres, now at 10 points, sits in seventh place.
Substitutions for Cruz Azul
75’ 2T – José Paradela was replaced by Osinachi Ebere, and Jeremy Márquez was substituted for Amaury García. 89’ 2T – Nicolás Ibáñez was replaced by Mateo Levy.
Cautions for Cruz Azul
47’ 1T – Nicolás Ibáñez (repeated fouls) and 18’ 2T – Rodolfo Rotondi (repeated fouls).
Substitutions for Tigres
62’ 2T – César Araujo was substituted for Juan Brunetta; 63’ 2T – Marcelo Flores was replaced by Ozziel Herrera; 68’ 2T – Juan José Purata and Carlos Rodríguez were replaced by Jesús Angulo and Luka Romero, respectively; Omar Campos was substituted by Jorge Rodarte; 82’ 2T – Vladimir Loroña was replaced by Juan Pablo Vigón.
Cautions for Tigres
36’ 1T – Diego Lainez (repeated fouls) and 48’ 2T – Joaquim Pereira (repeated fouls).