Thu May 01 23:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Cruz Azul and Tigres Vie for Concacaf Final Spot in Mexico City Clash
**MEXICO CITY** – The Mexican league’s domestic play-offs are taking a backseat as all eyes are on Thursday’s Concacaf Champions Cup semi-final second leg between Cruz Azul and Tigres. The match, to be played at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario in Mexico City, is a highly anticipated rematch following a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
The rivalry is heightened by the coaching matchup between Cruz Azul’s Uruguayan manager Vicente Sánchez and Tigres’ Argentine counterpart Guido Pizarro, both vying for a domestic and Concacaf double after unexpectedly taking the helm of their respective teams. Adding to the excitement, both clubs boast two of the five most valuable squads in Mexican football, with Cruz Azul valued at $96.2 million and Tigres at $74.1 million according to Transfermarkt.
The first leg, held at Tigres’ home stadium, saw a balanced first half before Cruz Azul’s Carlos Rotondi scored in the 68th minute. However, Tigres equalized in the 84th minute through Juan Purata’s header from a set-piece.
Tigres coach Pizarro acknowledged his team’s shortcomings in the first leg, emphasizing the need for improved possession and attacking play. Meanwhile, a confident Sánchez plans to leverage Cruz Azul’s away goal and home advantage to secure a spot in the final.
The match, refereed by Canadian Drew Fischer, kicks off at 8 PM local time (2 AM GMT Friday) and is expected to draw a large crowd to the 59,000-capacity stadium. The starting lineups for both teams have been released. The winner will advance to the Concacaf Champions Cup final.
First Piper 