The stage was set for an electrifying battle in the first leg of the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup semi-finals as Tigres UANL faced off against Cruz Azul at the Estadio Universitario on April 23, 2025. The match, which kicked off at 10:00 PM local time, ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw, leaving both teams with everything to play for in the second leg.
In front of a passionate crowd, the game showcased the fierce rivalry between these two Mexican giants. Tigres UANL, known for their attacking prowess and solid defense, entered the match with high hopes of securing a victory to gain an advantage heading into the return leg. They were keen to expand their trophy cabinet after clinching their only CONCACAF title in 2020.
Cruz Azul, on the other hand, boasted a storied history in the tournament, having won it six times, making them second only to Club América in terms of victories. However, their last continental title came during the 2013/14 season, and they were eager to reclaim their spot at the top.
The match began with both teams exchanging blows, but it was Cruz Azul who struck first. Rodolfo Rotondi found the back of the net in the 68th minute, sending their fans into a frenzy. The goal came after a well-executed play that caught the Tigres defense off guard. Rotondi's strike was a testament to Cruz Azul's attacking capabilities, and it put them ahead 1-0.
However, Tigres UANL refused to back down. They ramped up the pressure, looking for an equalizer. Their persistence paid off when Juanjo Purata scored in the 84th minute, leveling the match at 1-1. The goal was a result of a well-placed corner kick that Purata converted with a powerful header, much to the delight of the home crowd.
As the match approached its conclusion, both teams had chances to secure a win, but neither could find the decisive goal. Notably, in the dying moments of the match, Tigres' Vladimir Loroña was fouled in the defensive zone, prompting a tense atmosphere as the referee, Iván Arcides Barton Cisneros, signaled for a stoppage.
The final whistle blew, confirming the 1-1 draw, which leaves the tie wide open ahead of the second leg scheduled for May 1, 2025, at Estadio Olímpico Universitario. The result means both teams will head into the second leg with everything to play for, as they vie for a spot in the final.
Looking ahead, the stakes remain high for both squads. Tigres UANL, who finished fourth in the Liga MX regular season, are determined to add another trophy to their collection. They have shown resilience in their journey to the semi-finals, having defeated Real Estelí FC (3-1), FC Cincinnati (4-2), and the LA Galaxy (3-2) to reach this stage.
Cruz Azul also had a formidable run to the semi-finals, cruising past Real Hope FA (7-0), the Seattle Sounders (3-1), and edging out Club América (2-1). Their performance in the tournament has been underscored by individual brilliance, with Ángel Sepúlveda leading the scoring charts with six goals, and Mateusz Bogusz topping the assist leaderboard with three.
The draw sets the stage for an exciting second leg, where both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strengths and secure a place in the final. Fans can expect an intense atmosphere as the rivalry continues to unfold.
In another semi-final clash, Vancouver Whitecaps F.C. will take on Inter Miami CF on April 24, 2025, at BC Place in Vancouver. This match will also be crucial, as both teams aim to make their mark in the tournament. Inter Miami, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, has been making headlines this season, and their performance against the Whitecaps will be closely watched.
As the CONCACAF Champions Cup progresses, the excitement builds, and the anticipation for the finals grows. With teams like Tigres UANL, Cruz Azul, Inter Miami, and Vancouver Whitecaps all vying for glory, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
