As the Liga MX season approaches its climax, Pumas de la UNAM are gearing up for a crucial match against Santos Laguna on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario. Scheduled to kick off at 21:05 hours (Mexico City time), this encounter holds significant implications for both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the Clausura 2025 tournament.
Pumas, currently sitting in 10th place with 18 points, are desperately seeking a victory to solidify their position in the Play-In round. This comes after a disappointing exit in the quarterfinals of the Concachampions against the Vancouver Whitecaps and a frustrating goalless draw with FC Juárez in their last Liga MX outing. Coach Efraín Juárez knows that a win against Santos is essential to keep their playoff hopes alive.
On the other hand, Santos Laguna finds themselves in dire straits, languishing at the bottom of the table with just 7 points from 16 matches. Having won only two games and lost 12, their campaign has been nothing short of disastrous. The team, under the guidance of Fernando Ortiz, will be looking to salvage some pride as they aim to avoid finishing the season in last place.
“We have to approach this match with the determination to secure three points,” said Efraín Juárez, highlighting the urgency of the situation. “Every game counts, and we need to make the most of our opportunities at home.”
For Pumas, the stakes couldn't be higher. They are positioned at the last spot that grants entry to the Play-In, and a loss could jeopardize their chances of qualifying for the Liguilla. With only two matches remaining in the regular season, this game against Santos represents a golden opportunity to gain momentum.
The Pumas lineup is expected to feature Álex Padilla in goal, with a defensive line comprising Pablo Bennevendo, Nathan Silva, Lisandro Magallán, and Rubén Duarte. In midfield, José Caicedo and Adalberto Carrasquilla will be pivotal, while the attacking front will likely include Leo Suárez, Jorge Ruvalcaba, Ignacio Pussetto, and Guillermo Martínez.
Meanwhile, Santos will take the field with Carlos Acevedo as their goalkeeper, supported by a defense that includes José Abella, Ismael Govea, Edson Gutiérrez, and Emmanuel Echeverría. Their midfield will feature Aldo López, Javier Güemez, and Jordan Carrillo, with Ramiro Sordo and Bruno Barticciotto leading the attack.
Despite their struggles, Santos can take solace in the fact that they have nothing to lose. “We want to end the season on a high note and show that we can compete, even if the results haven’t gone our way,” Ortiz stated. His team will need to find a way to overcome their recent form if they hope to upset the Pumas.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the match, with tickets already selling out quickly. The atmosphere at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario is expected to be electric as Pumas fans rally behind their team in this pivotal encounter. “We need our supporters to be our 12th player on the field,” Juárez emphasized, calling for a strong turnout.
The match will be broadcast live on Canal 5 de Televisa, TUDN, and the ViX streaming platform, allowing fans to catch all the action from home. Coverage will begin at 20:45 hours, giving viewers a chance to tune in for pre-match analysis and commentary.
Historically, Pumas have had the upper hand in recent encounters against Santos, winning three of their last five meetings. However, with the stakes this high, past performances may not be indicative of the outcome. Both teams are aware that every point is crucial at this stage of the tournament.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the Pumas are preparing to leave everything on the pitch. This match is not just about securing points; it's about pride, resilience, and the hope of continuing their journey in the Liga MX. The time for action is now, and for Pumas, failure is not an option.
With the playoffs looming, the pressure is palpable. Will Pumas rise to the occasion and secure their place in the next round, or will Santos pull off a surprising upset? All eyes will be on the Estadio Olímpico Universitario as these two teams clash in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
As the Liga MX season nears its conclusion, every match becomes a defining moment. For Pumas, this is their chance to reclaim their season and keep their playoff dreams alive. The challenge is clear, and the players are ready to deliver. Let the game begin!
