Ciudad de México, 11 feb (EFE).- Ángel Sepúlveda and the Uruguayan Gabriel Fernández each scored twice to lead Cruz Azul to a commanding 5-0 victory over Real Hope from Haiti, securing their advancement to the knockout stage of the Concacaf Champions Cup. The match marked the second leg of the round of 16, where Andrés Montaño also added to the scoreline, with Cruz Azul maintaining their dominance after previously winning the first leg 2-0.
Under the interim management of Vicente Sánchez, Cruz Azul opened the scoring early, showcasing their strength on the international stage. Just 21 minutes in, Mateusz Bogusz executed a high service from around 20 yards out, allowing Sepúlveda to elude two defenders and deliver a powerful header, putting his team up 1-0 past Haitian goalkeeper Gooly Elien. Sepúlveda's first goal was pivotal, igniting the team's offensive prowess.
Continuing their onslaught, just three minutes later, Cruz Azul extended their lead. This time, during a corner kick, Ignacio Rivero flicked on the ball, allowing Sepúlveda to pounce at the back post and finish with his left foot for the 2-0 advantage. The opening half was dominated by Cruz Azul, who left their Caribbean opponents scrambling.
At the 26-minute mark, the scoring continued with Gabriel Fernández firing off a low shot from long distance. His precision caught Elien off guard as the ball slipped beneath him, marking the 3-0 lead and demonstrating Cruz Azul’s relentless pursuit of victory.
While the Mexican squad maintained control, Real Hope was gifted a chance to narrow the gap just before halftime. They were awarded a penalty at the 45+1 minute when Angelo Éxilus went down inside the box. Nevertheless, the opportunity was squandered as Éxilus failed to convert, which only fueled Cruz Azul’s momentum going forward.
The second half saw Cruz Azul exhibit continuous pressure. By the 60th minute, Andrés Montaño joined the scoring parade with another goal, his shot from outside the area finding the back of the net through the right post, making it 4-0.
Real Hope’s efforts to respond were hampered by poor execution. A half-hearted attempt came from Watz Leazard, who had been introduced as a substitute, but Cruz Azul's goalkeeper Andrés Gudiño was quick to deny him, solidifying the Mexican team's defensive effort.
Finally, at the 75-minute mark, Fernández wrapped up the scoring with another goal. After outmaneuvering a defender and the goalkeeper, he sealed the scoreline at 5-0. The Brazilian forward's display of talent showcased Cruz Azul’s full control of the match and left Real Hope with little to celebrate.
Cruz Azul's victory not only highlighted their aspirations within the Concacaf Champions Cup but also represented the broader narrative of the match. Real Hope, with only 11 years of existence, faced the pressure of their first international tournament, and their struggle against seasoned opposition became evident throughout the match.
Now advancing to the next round, Cruz Azul awaits their forthcoming challenge, which will be against the winner of the tie between the Seattle Sounders of the MLS and Guatemala's Antigua GFC. This victory not only confirms their place but reaffirms their competitive spirit and ambition within the prestigious tournament.