Tigres will be without key midfielder Rafael Carioca for the second leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal against Cruz Azul. As reported by Claro Sports, Guido Pizarro revealed that Carioca is dealing with a dental infection that has kept him bedridden and unable to train. The Brazilian will remain in Monterrey to recover in time for the Liga MX Clausura playoffs.
In better news for Tigres, Juan Brunetta will be available. The Argentine suffered a stomach upset ahead of training but has recovered and is expected to feature in Wednesday’s match. Brunetta’s presence is crucial for the side as they aim to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg played at Estadio Universitario.
Pizarro also praised the support from club president Mauricio Culebro but emphasized that success must be earned day by day. “I know what needs to be done and where I want to take this team. That daily effort is what justifies the support we’ve received,” said the captain.
Meanwhile, Fernando Gorriarán urged caution in response to talk of a Cruz Azul vs. Inter Miami final already being a foregone conclusion. “There are still 90 minutes, maybe more. We’re motivated and want to earn a home final for our fans,” he stated. Tigres will seek to deliver a comeback at Estadio Azteca and book a second international final in three years.
The Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal between Cruz Azul and Tigres UANL is hanging in the balance. The first leg finished 1-1, so everything is still up for grabs. A place in the final awaits for these talented teams. The match kicks off at 10 p.m. ET on May 1, 2025, at the University Olympic Stadium.
Cruz Azul is currently positioned as the favorite to take the continental title after their surprising victory over Club America in the quarterfinals. They have not claimed the title since the 2013-14 season against Toluca. The hosts have a strong home record, winning five of their last six games in the Champions Cup and keeping three clean sheets.
On the other hand, Tigres is looking to repeat their 2020 feat when they first claimed the continental championship, which remains their only international title. However, they have struggled in away matches during this tournament, failing to secure a victory on the road.
In terms of player availability, Cruz Azul will welcome back Lorenzo Faravelli, who was suspended for accumulation of fouls, and Luka Romero, who has cleared concussion protocol. For Tigres, they are still waiting on the recovery of André-Pierre Gignac and Osvaldo Rodríguez, with Rafael Carioca being a last-minute decision. Diego Lainez and Ozziel Herrera are back in the squad.
The second leg will be played in the University City of Mexico City, the temporary home of Cruz Azul during the season. A strong turnout is expected, with the match likely to draw one of the biggest crowds of the year.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, the stakes couldn't be higher. Only one Mexican team will represent the country in the Grand Final of the Concacaf Champions Cup, and the tension is palpable. Cruz Azul and Tigres are both eager to secure their place, knowing that a victory could propel them into the final against an MLS opponent.
The two teams have squared off 70 times in all competitions since 1997, with Cruz Azul holding the upper hand with 27 wins compared to Tigres' 24, while 19 matches have ended in draws. However, Tigres is unbeaten in their last three meetings against Cruz Azul, including two 1-1 draws.
As the match approaches, the anticipation builds. Tigres will need to overcome their away struggles and capitalize on their opportunities if they hope to advance. With both teams in good form, this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest.
Fans are eager to see how the game unfolds, especially with the added pressure of a potential final on the line. The excitement is palpable, and both teams will need to bring their A-game to emerge victorious.
In conclusion, the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal between Cruz Azul and Tigres UANL is set to be a nail-biter. With both teams having everything to play for, the stage is set for an unforgettable night of soccer.
