Cruz Azul Advances to Semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup
Cruz Azul has made a remarkable advancement to the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup 2025, defeating América 2-1 in a gripping quarterfinal second leg held at the Estadio Olimpico Universitario in Mexico City on Tuesday.
Ángel Sepúlveda was the standout player for Cruz Azul, netting both goals that sealed the victory and allowed La Máquina to progress with a 2-1 aggregate score.
The match began with América generating the first notable chance just three minutes in. Alejandro Zendejas attempted to break the deadlock but was thwarted by Colombian goalkeeper Kevin Mier.
Shortly after, Cruz Azul responded aggressively through Erik Lira, whose shot was saved by América’s goalkeeper, Ángel Malagón. The turning point came in the 12th minute when a long clearance from Mier found Polish midfielder Matusz Bogusz. He laid the ball off for Sepúlveda, who executed a low left-footed shot into the net, marking his first goal from inside the box.
Despite pressing hard for a second goal, Cruz Azul faced resilient defense from Malagón, who denied Ignacio Rivero’s header in the 30th minute and later blocked a long-range effort from Bogusz.
In the second half, Malagón continued his impressive form, saving a powerful shot from Carlos Rodríguez in the 52nd minute.
As the match progressed, América began to find their footing. In the 57th minute, Kevin Álvarez connected with Spaniard Álvaro Fidalgo, who calmly found the net, leveling the score at 1-1.
Gabriel Fernández Secures Victory
With time running out, Cruz Azul pushed for a winning goal. In the 81st minute, Fernández took a shot that was again denied by Malagón. The winner came in the 85th minute when Rivero crossed from the right flank, and Sepúlveda met the ball with a powerful header, securing a 2-1 victory and a place in the semifinals for Cruz Azul.
Next Up: Tigres
Cruz Azul will next face Mexico’s Tigres, who triumphed over the U.S. Los Angeles Galaxy 3-2 in their quarterfinal match, also advancing with a 2-1 aggregate score.
