Puebla Falls Short Against Tigres in Critical Match

Tigres, with a strategic lineup change in anticipation of the Concacaf Champions Cup, outlasted Puebla, keeping the match at a goalless draw. With an alternate team, the regiomontanos managed to hold their ground, practically dashing Puebla’s tournament hopes. Prioritizing the upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup return leg against the LA Galaxy, coach Guido Pizarro opted to rest several regular starters. Meanwhile, Puebla fielded their strongest squad but couldn’t break through, despite occasionally challenging the university team. Their lack of finishing touches proved detrimental.

The most thrilling attempts came from the hosts, courtesy of Emiliano Gómez and Ricardo Marín, but accuracy was lacking, and when Tigres’ goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán was called upon, he responded impressively. In the second half, Tigres pushed forward, gaining leverage in the opponent’s half, yet their midfield control was not capitalized upon in the final third.

Late in the match, Puebla narrowly avoided a penalty when Emanuel Gularte, in a defensive gamble, clipped Rómulo’s shoe. Even after a VAR review, the decision remained no penalty. Ozziel Herrera was actively engaged, cutting inwards from the left flank, and twice attempting long-range shots, one of which Julio González deflected to a corner.

Tigres now shifts their focus to the Concacaf quarterfinal return leg next Tuesday against their MLS counterparts, with the aggregate score still tied 0-0. In contrast, Puebla, a disappointment this season, will head to face James Rodriguez’s León, merely fulfilling their schedule, as their progression to the Play-in seems unlikely.