In a thrilling Liga MX Clausura 2025 play-in match, FC Juárez faced off against Pumas UNAM at the Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez on Sunday, April 27, 2025. Both teams entered the match looking to secure a spot in the postseason, but it was Pumas who emerged victorious after a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 2-1 following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The match began with a delay due to a sandstorm, which forced the players to wait before kicking off. When the action finally got underway, it was Pumas who struck first. Guillermo Martínez opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a well-placed shot that found the back of the net, putting the visitors ahead 1-0.
However, Juárez was quick to respond. Just four minutes later, Madson Monteiro leveled the score at 1-1 with a powerful shot that beat Pumas goalkeeper Alex Padilla. The home crowd erupted as Juárez fought back, demonstrating their resilience in front of their fans.
As the first half progressed, both teams had their chances, but neither could find the winning goal. The match was tightly contested, with both defenses working hard to thwart the opposing attacks. Juárez's goalkeeper, Sebastián Jurado, made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game, while Padilla was equally impressive at the other end.
In the second half, the intensity continued, but the match took a turn when Pumas' Guillermo Martínez received a second yellow card and was sent off, leaving his team with ten players. Juárez, now with a numerical advantage, pressed for a winner. Despite their efforts, they were unable to capitalize on the situation, and the match remained tied at 1-1 as regulation time came to a close.
With the score still level, the match moved to penalties to determine which team would advance to the next round of the play-in. The penalty shootout was filled with drama and tension. Juárez's Óscar Estupiñán converted the first penalty, giving his team an early lead. However, the shootout quickly turned into a battle of nerves.
Pumas goalkeeper Alex Padilla emerged as the hero of the shootout, making crucial saves that kept his team in contention. Notably, he denied Diego Valoyes and Avilés Hurtado, both of whom missed their attempts. Meanwhile, Nathan Silva successfully converted Pumas' first penalty, leveling the shootout at 1-1.
As the shootout progressed, it became a test of character for both teams. Pumas' Robert Ergas scored the decisive penalty, sealing the victory for his team. Despite Juárez's effort, they fell short, with several missed penalties proving costly.
With the final score of 1-1 in regulation and Pumas winning 2-1 on penalties, they advanced to face Rayados de Monterrey in the next round, where they will vie for the final spot in the Liguilla playoffs.
This match marked a significant moment for both teams. For FC Juárez, it was a chance to build on their previous postseason experience, having only made the playoffs once before in 2023. Meanwhile, Pumas UNAM aimed to redeem themselves after a disappointing exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup earlier in the season.
As the teams left the field, the atmosphere was electric, with fans of both sides hopeful for their respective futures. The match showcased the competitive spirit of Liga MX, and the thrilling penalty shootout will be remembered as a highlight of the Clausura 2025.
Looking ahead, Pumas will need to carry this momentum into their next matchup against Monterrey. With their playoff hopes still alive, the team will aim to build on this victory, while Juárez will reflect on their performance and seek to improve for next season.
