Efraín Juárez took the helm of Pumas for the first time on March 4, 2025, as they faced Alajuelense in the Concachampions Round of 16. Having been appointed just 48 hours prior, anticipation was high for his coaching debut at Ciudad Universitaria, especially as the team sought to rebound from four consecutive losses in Liga MX.
Juárez, who won two titles during his brief tenure at Atlético Nacional, now stands before the significant challenge of restoring Pumas' confidence, which has been shaken by their recent performances. Presented as the replacement for Gustavo Lema, his welcome from the fans at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario was warm and hopeful.
Pumas entered this match desperate, having suffered disheartening defeats, including one against Chivas where they conceded the match-winning goal right at the end. Now, they were determined to correct their course by facing Alajuelense, which seeks recognition for its own efforts to qualify for the Club World Cup.
Alajuelense has been vocal about deserving their place at the international tournament, claiming they should participate instead of Mexican clubs León or Pachuca, citing ownership regulations. Yet, their arguments have seemingly fallen on deaf ears at FIFA.
Returning to the match on March 4, the initial line-up for Pumas featured key players, including Alex Padilla, Alfonso Monroy, and Rogelio Funes Mori, who Juárez surprisingly decided to include from the get-go. This tactical shift represented not only Juárez's influence but also his willingness to pivot from the strategies used by his predecessors.
With kickoff approaching, the pressure was palpable for the home team. The first half began with neither team able to find the back of the net for the opening minutes. Pumas struggled to create notable scoring opportunities and were met with Alajuelense's solid defense—yet things began to change after the 39th minute.
One of the turning points came when the Pumas took advantage of their first significant offensive opportunity: Alfonso Monroy skillfully maneuvered past defenders to assist Robert Ergas, who executed a right-footed shot from the left side of the area, putting Pumas up 1-0 just before halftime.
“The first goal is always special,” Ergas commented later. “It marks the beginning of something new.”
Going to halftime with the lead was the morale boost Pumas desperately needed. Although Alajuelense had more possession at times, with 55% ball control, it was the host team who capitalized when it counted. They entered the break knowing they had to maintain focus and intensity upon resumption.
The second half began with Alajuelense shifting gears, showing attacking intent to equalize. The coaching adjustments made by Juárez had instilled some order, but the test for Pumas was whether they could weather the storm of fresh attacks. Alajuelense's players, including Bryan Oviedo and Jeison Lucumí, took aim at the Pumas defense, yet were unable to score.
Throughout the game, Pumas attempted to hold onto their narrow lead, but not without hurdles. Ignacio Pussetto sustained a troubling injury after battling for possession, serving as another moment of concern for fans already anxious about the team’s overall performance. Late during the match, the fourth official announced three minutes of added time, allowing temporary hope for the visiting side to level the score.
At the end of the day, the final whistle confirmed Pumas’ narrow victory—a solid start for Juárez’s managerial era. The match concluded with Pumas 1, Alajuelense 0, and fans left hopeful for what lies ahead for the team. “This is just the beginning,” Pumas' coach stated after the match. “We have much work to do, but tonight was a positive step forward.”
Next for Pumas is their continuous efforts to climb back up the ranks of Liga MX, where they will face Puebla on March 7, before traveling to Costa Rica for the return leg against Alajuelense on March 13. Meanwhile, Juárez’s rapid adaptation to coaching at Pumas will be put to the test as he looks to not just win, but also to rebuild the team's identity and spirit.