Tigres UANL delivered a decisive performance on March 15, 2025, defeating Santos Laguna 3-0 at the Estadio Universitario, also known as the ‘Volcán’ of San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico. This victory, marked by two own goals, ensured Tigres’ position among the top teams of the Liga MX Clausura 2025.
The match began with enthusiasm as Tigres and their fans expected to maintain their winning momentum, following their recent successes against Querétaro and FC Cincinnati. Unfortunately for Santos Laguna, they faced Tigres at a time when their form was faltering, having been unable to secure wins.
The first half unfolded with the hosts pushing aggressively to take the lead. A promising chance emerged early on when Juan Brunetta attempted to score, but his shot was blocked inadvertently by teammate Nicolás Ibáñez. Santos had their moment of hope around the 20th minute when Andrés Dajome’s effort hit the outside of the goal—a missed opportunity for the visitors.
Just before halftime, Marcelo Flores netted what seemed to be the opening goal for Tigres, reacting fast to follow up on Javier Aquino’s assist. Unfortunately for the home side, the goal was disallowed after video review for offside.
Despite the disappointment of the disallowed goal, Tigres continued to dominate, but the first half ended without any scoring, bringing frustration for the Champions League aspirants. It wasn't until the second half where the floodgates began to open.
At the 48th minute, the breakthrough came via the first own goal of the match. Marcelo Flores swooped down the left wing and supplied the ball across the area; it deflected off Emmanuel Echeverría’s knee and flew past Santos' keeper, Carlos Acevedo, giving Tigres the pivotal 1-0 lead.
With momentum firmly on Tigres’ side, Juan Brunetta, who had been electric throughout the match, found the back of the net just 11 minutes later. He struck with force, curling the ball beautifully from distance, making it 2-0 and sending the fans at Estadio Universitario roaring with approval.
It was evident Santos was struggling to cope, and their misfortunes multiplied when another own goal sealed their fate. At the 70th minute, Edson Gutiérrez attempted to clear the ball during a corner-kick scenario but inadvertently redirected it toward his own net, resulting in the final 3-0 scoreline.
Despite having some chances, including Jordan Carrillo’s last-minute header which hit the crossbar, Santos could not muster any meaningful response to Tigres' superiority. The defeat saw Santos Laguna languishing at the bottom of the table, now facing increased pressure as the season progresses.
Tigres, buoyed by their victory, moved up to second place with 25 points, trailing only León. With more games on the horizon, their focus will be on maintaining this form as they prepare for their next encounter against Atlético de San Luis on March 30, 2025.
Reflecting on the match, the player stats indicated Tigres’ impressive backend play and defensive organization, effectively stifling Santos’ attempts. The match concluded under the watchful eye of referee César Arturo Ramos Palazuelos, who ensured fair play throughout the contest.
For Santos, the defeat serves as a significant wake-up call, emphasizing the need for stronger performances if they hope to avoid being tangled at the bottom of the standings as the season progresses.
The showdown not only highlighted the talents within Tigres but also the challenges Santos must meet head-on if they hope to change their fortunes moving forward.
With such contrasting fates during this match, Tigres celebrate another pivotal victory, solidifying their spot as serious contenders this season.