TIGRES

Tigres enter the semifinals with strong momentum after an impressive comeback against Tijuana. After losing the first leg, they crushed Xolos 5–0 at the Estadio Universitario to win the series 5–3 on aggregate.
The dominant performance boosted the team’s confidence as they now prepare to face a more demanding opponent in Cruz Azul.

Why Tigres Can Win

The team led by Guido Pizarro stands out for its cohesive play and individual talent. Their display against Xolos highlighted their offensive strength, which can cause major problems for the Celeste defense.
They also rely on the experience of goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán, a key figure if the match becomes tense.

Tigres’ Player to Watch

Ángel Correa remains the most influential player in Tigres’ lineup. Since joining the club, he has become an undisputed starter and a major offensive weapon, scoring eight goals in the regular season. He is expected to be the difference-maker against Cruz Azul.

Probable Tigres Lineup

Nahuel Guzmán, Jesús Angulo, Marco Farfán, Rómulo Zwarg, Jesús Garza, Fernando Gorriarán, Juan Brunetta, Diego Lainez, Ángel Correa, Nicolás Ibáñez, André-Pierre Gignac.

Prediction

Tigres arrive in high spirits after their dramatic comeback and have the ability to earn at least a draw in the first leg at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, leaving the decisive match for their home stadium.

CRUZ AZUL

Cruz Azul reach the semifinals after overcoming Chivas in a dramatic quarterfinal series. The Máquina had to come from behind twice and benefited from Chivas missing a late penalty that could have eliminated them.

Coach Nicolás Larcamón acknowledged that the team did not play its best against Chivas, but said the lessons learned will be applied against Tigres to avoid similar mistakes.

Why Cruz Azul Can Win

Cruz Azul’s biggest advantage is their dominance at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, where they hold an impressive streak of 25 consecutive matches without a loss — the same venue where the first leg of the semifinals will be played.
Larcamón continues to strengthen the project established by sporting director Iván Alonso, giving the team a well-defined identity and a deep, competitive squad capable of challenging Tigres.

Cruz Azul’s Player to Watch

Given Tigres’ explosive offense, the role of Erik Lira will be crucial. Playing as a libero — a position he mastered since 2024 — he will be responsible for cutting off plays created through the middle by Brunetta, Gorriarán and Correa.
His defensive reading and stability will be essential in containing Tigres’ creative attack.

Probable Cruz Azul Lineup

Andrés Gudiño, Jorge Sánchez, Willer Ditta, Erik Lira, Gonzalo Piovi, Rodolfo Rotondi, Ignacio Rivero, Carlos Rodríguez, José Paradela, Jeremy Márquez, Gabriel Fernández.

Prediction

This series promises to be one of the most exciting of the tournament, with two strong and well-prepared squads. While Cruz Azul is highly competitive, Tigres hold a slight edge thanks to their experience, overall depth, and higher regular-season finish — factors that may ultimately tip the balance in their favor in the race for a spot in the final.