Cruz Azul Dominates Tijuana With 3-2 Victory at Estadio Caliente
The Liga MX brought fans another thrilling evening as Cruz Azul triumphed over Tijuana with a 3-2 victory during the Jornada 5 of the Clausura 2025. This match unfolded at Estadio Caliente, and it proved pivotal for Cruz Azul as they sought to build momentum under interim coach Vicente Sánchez following the departure of previous manager Martín Anselmi.
The scoring began early, just six minutes in, when Cruz Azul's new recruit from Spain, Luka Romero, found the back of the net after executing a clever play involving teammate Giorgos Giakoumakis. Romero's shot deflected off Tijuana's goalkeeper José de Jesús Corona, marking his first goal since his arrival at the club. This moment not only thrilled the fans but also put the young forward on the map—sealing his initial chapter with the team.
Just before half-time, Cruz Azul amplified their lead. Rodolfo Rotondi converted from the penalty spot, deftly sending the ball to the left corner of the net after Coronel's movement signaled to him the right path. Rotondi's penalty was awarded following a handball by Tijuana's Jackson Porozo, reinforcing Cruz Azul's lead and highlighting their assertive play.
“I felt great confidence taking the penalty. The team has been working hard, and it’s rewarding to see our efforts pay off,” said Rotondi post-match.
The first half ended with Cruz Azul up 3-0, thanks to another goal from Giakoumakis, who tapped the rebound from Rotondi’s powerful shot, sealing the dominance displayed during those initial 45 minutes.
Despite their formidable start, Cruz Azul faced spirited second-half resistance. Tijuana, having suffered heavy defeat against Tigres recently, sought to regroup and capitalize on defensive lapses from Cruz Azul. They grabbed their first goal of the match when Iván Tona managed to capitalize on miscommunication within Cruz Azul's defense, driving home the ball from close range.
A mere four minutes later, Tijuana's José Zúñiga brought the game to 3-2, igniting hope for the locals as they rallied against their visitors. The chaotic environment of Estadio Caliente turned electric, as fans buoyed their team under pressure.
Reflecting on the second half, Sánchez noted, “We need to learn to manage our leads. It’s part of the growing process.” His remarks underlined the challenges facing Cruz Azul, particularly as the match showcased both their potential and vulnerabilities.
Although Tijuana pressed for the equalizer, Cruz Azul maintained their composure, relying on solid defensive efforts and keeping at bay any late-game surges from the Xolos. The match concluded with Cruz Azul celebrating their hard-fought victory.
This result ostensibly marks a turning point for Cruz Azul amid their restructuring phase. Having struggled at the beginning of the tournament, securing their first win against Necaxa previously, this game bolstered their confidence. Now, with six points total, they rise to ninth place on the Liga MX table.
Meanwhile, Tijuana's loss positions them precariously as they remain twelfth, still seeking their form after recent setbacks. Coach Juan Carlos Osorio will need to address these challenges and refocus his squad for the upcoming matches.
Fans and analysts are keeping tabs on Cruz Azul's newest signings, including Mateusz Bogusz, who joined the squad from LAFC; his anticipated debut is generating buzz as the team prepares for the upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup match against Real Hope from Haiti within the next week.
With their blend of young talent and experienced players, coupled with the recent shift in management, Cruz Azul looks to cement their resurgence and playoff aspirations as the Liga MX season progresses. Both teams will now look to build on this match as they navigate through the rest of the season.