Today : Mar 12, 2025
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12 March 2025

LAFC, Tigres, Cruz Azul Advance To Concacaf Champions Cup Quarters

The first round results set the stage for exciting matchups as teams aim for the coveted trophy.

Three teams have already secured their spots in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, with LAFC, Tigres, and Cruz Azul advancing on March 11. Meanwhile, the final matchups of the Round of 16 are set to continue, generating excitement among fans as teams vie for the prestigious trophy.

On March 11, results came pouring in from three matches. Cruz Azul dominated the Seattle Sounders with a resounding 4-1 victory, guaranteeing their passage to the next round. Meanwhile, LAFC narrowly edged out the Columbus Crew with a 2-1 win, advancing with an aggregate score of 4-2. Tigres completed the day’s successes by defeating Cincinnati 3-1, with the overall score of 4-2 allowing them to join their fellow Mexican teams.

The standout performance of the day came from Tigres led by coach Guido Pizarro. The team had initially drawn 1-1 with Cincinnati during their first leg but came back strong on home turf. The match saw Ozziel Herrera, Juan Brunetta, and Nico Ibáñez find the back of the net, demonstrating Tigres’ attacking prowess. Pizarro’s leadership has revitalized the team, especially notable after they recently defeated Querétaro 1-0, marking their second consecutive victory.

On March 12, the competition heats up with more matches scheduled. Key encounters include Monterrey taking on the Vancouver Whitecaps, LA Galaxy facing Herediano, and the highly anticipated Clásico Nacional where America will meet Chivas. Both America and Chivas will fight for progression after the former trails 1-0 due to an own goal conceded during the first leg.

America’s coach André Jardine highlighted the enormity of the upcoming clash, indicating it is their most important game under his management. “We’ve been working hard to improve possession, aggression, and intensity. We need to deliver this time,” Jardine explained, emphasizing the pressure his team feels as they aim to overturn the deficit.

From the other side, Chivas’ forward Alan Pulido spoke about the necessity of stepping up his game. “I came here to make my mark and win championships. This game requires us to show strength and character,” he asserted passionately.

Meanwhile, Monterrey faces Vancouver Whitecaps, with the former needing at least a scoreless draw to advance. The first leg ended 1-1, putting pressure on Monterrey to deliver a strong performance at Estadio TSM, their usual home ground. Their recent mediocre performance places them in ninth place on the Liga MX table, intensifying the urgency to perform well.

March 13 will see more action, with Pumas challenging Alajuelense and Cavalier facing Inter Miami, among others, solidifying this week as one of significant advancement potential for multiple teams.

The stakes are incredibly high as teams like Tigres and Cruz Azul have already made their mark, setting the tone for what fans can expect as the tournament progresses. Historically, the Concacaf Champions Cup has been known for its thrilling matches and fierce competition, and this season appears no different.

Looking back at the tournament, the 2025 edition has involved 27 clubs from the Americas competing for glory. The format allows for the top clubs from the North America region to showcase their skills, with only the elite progressing through extensive knockout rounds.

The matches announced for March 12 exemplify this competitive spirit. Monterrey aims not only for advancement but to respond to fan expectations, having disappointed recently. On the other hand, the matchup between LA Galaxy and Herediano promises to be just as enticing, with both clubs eager to secure their next step.

Indeed, with teams like Inter Miami led by famed player Lionel Messi slated to play soon, the anticipation around the upcoming fixtures is palpable. Fans are reminded to tune in via Tubi and various channels broadcasting these taut matches, with excitement swirling as team legends strive for another chance at the grand title.

The following days promise to deliver high stakes and thrilling soccer experiences for fans around the continent, as more teams seek to etch their names onto the prestigious trophy of the Concacaf Champions Cup.