In a dramatic showdown at the Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez, Pumas de la UNAM triumphed over FC Juárez in a penalty shootout, securing a 2-1 victory after a tense 1-1 draw in regulation time. The match, part of the Clausura 2025 Liga MX Play-In, was marked by a fierce sandstorm that delayed kickoff for over an hour, but the resilient Pumas managed to keep their championship hopes alive thanks to a stellar performance from their young goalkeeper, Alex Padilla.
The game finally commenced at 18:15 hours, with temperatures soaring to 33 degrees Celsius and wind gusts reaching 76 kilometers per hour. Pumas started strong, with Guillermo "Memote" Martínez scoring the opening goal in the 16th minute. After a swift counterattack initiated by Santiago Trigos, Martínez showcased his skill by cutting inside and firing a precise shot past Juárez goalkeeper Sebastián Jurado.
However, the lead was short-lived. Just four minutes later, in the 20th minute, Madson de Souza Silva equalized for Juárez with a powerful strike that beat Padilla at the near post. The match was shaping up to be a thrilling contest, but it took a turn for the worse for Pumas when Martínez received a red card in the 35th minute for a dangerous challenge on Jesús Murillo, following a VAR review.
With Pumas now down to ten men, the home team, Juárez, seized the initiative. They pressed forward, but despite their numerical advantage, they struggled to convert possession into clear scoring opportunities. Pumas defended resolutely, relying on quick counterattacks and maintaining their composure under pressure.
The second half saw Juárez continue to dominate possession, yet they failed to capitalize on their chances. Pumas' defense, anchored by Padilla, held firm against a series of attempts from Juárez. The intensity of the game heightened as both teams battled for control, but neither could find the back of the net, leading to a penalty shootout.
As the match entered the decisive penalty shootout, Padilla emerged as the hero for Pumas. He made three crucial saves against Juárez's penalty takers, denying Ángel Zaldívar, Avilés Hurtado, and José Luis Rodríguez. Meanwhile, Pumas faced their own challenges at the spot, with Adalberto Carrasquilla, Rogelio Funes Mori, and José Caicedo all failing to convert their penalties, as Jurado made impressive saves.
With the shootout tied at 1-1 after the initial round of penalties, Diego Valoyes stepped up for Juárez but struck the crossbar, leaving the door open for Pumas. Robert Ergas then converted the decisive penalty, sending Pumas through to the next round of the Play-In.
This victory means Pumas will advance to face the loser of the upcoming match between Rayados and Pachuca, with hopes of continuing their journey towards the Liga MX title. The team now has a week to prepare for their next challenge, which is scheduled for the weekend of May 3-4, 2025.
Despite the chaotic conditions and the red card, Pumas showed remarkable resilience, and Padilla's standout performance was a testament to the team's fighting spirit. The young goalkeeper, only 21 years old, has quickly become a key figure for the team, and his ability to perform under pressure will be vital as they move forward in the tournament.
As the dust settles in Ciudad Juárez, the Pumas fans can celebrate their team's determination and skill, while Juárez must regroup after a hard-fought season that came to a disappointing end. The emotions ran high in the aftermath of the match, with tensions flaring between players from both sides, underscoring the fierce rivalry and competitive spirit that defines Liga MX.
In the end, it was Pumas who emerged victorious, proving that even in the face of adversity, they have the heart and talent to compete at the highest level.
