Cruz Azul and Chivas battled to a dramatic 2-2 draw in the Liga MX Clausura semifinal first leg at Estadio Azteca. Chivas now holds the advantage heading into the decisive second leg at Estadio Jalisco.
Cruz Azul and Chivas Deliver Drama in Final Match at Estadio Azteca Before World Cup Renovations
Cruz Azul and Chivas produced an intense and emotional 2-2 draw on Wednesday night in the first leg of the Liga MX Clausura semifinal, marking the final club match at the iconic Estadio Azteca before it closes for FIFA World Cup preparations.
The historic stadium, recently renamed Estadio Banorte, will shut down until June 11, when it is set to host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup between Mexico and South Africa.
Chivas Strike First Through Santiago Sandoval
Chivas opened the scoring in the 29th minute thanks to Santiago Sandoval, who continued his impressive playoff form by scoring his third consecutive goal of the Liga MX postseason.
The goal came after Cruz Azul goalkeeper Hiram Mier failed to control a shot from Ricardo Marín, allowing Sandoval to capitalize on the rebound and give Guadalajara the early lead.
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Despite the setback, Cruz Azul responded strongly.
Carlos Rodríguez Levels With Stunning Finish
Midfielder Carlos Rodríguez equalized for Cruz Azul in the 37th minute with one of the best goals of the night. After receiving a perfectly timed pass from José Paradela on the right wing, Rodríguez calmly lifted a beautiful chip shot over goalkeeper Óscar Whalley.
The goal energized the home crowd and restored momentum for “La Máquina.”
Ángel Sepúlveda Restores Chivas’ Lead
Chivas regained the advantage shortly after halftime when former Cruz Azul striker Ángel Sepúlveda scored with a powerful header in the 50th minute.
Out of respect for his former club, Sepúlveda chose not to celebrate the goal. His finish once again placed Guadalajara in control and increased the pressure on Cruz Azul.
VAR Decision Helps Cruz Azul Equalize Again
Cruz Azul answered almost immediately. Nigerian forward Osinachi Ebere drew a foul near the edge of the penalty area, and after a VAR review, referee Maximiliano Quintero Hernández changed the call from a free kick to a penalty.
Ebere stepped up and confidently converted the spot kick in the 56th minute, firing the ball into the upper corner to make it 2-2.
Chivas Hold Important Advantage Heading Into Second Leg
Although the match ended level, Chivas leaves Mexico City in a favorable position. Due to their higher standing, Guadalajara only needs an aggregate draw in the second leg to advance to the Liga MX final for the first time since Clausura 2023.
Cruz Azul, meanwhile, missed an opportunity to take control at home and will now need a strong performance away from home to keep alive its hopes of reaching a first Liga MX final since Clausura 2024.
Estadio Jalisco to Host Decisive Match
Because Estadio Akron is now under FIFA control ahead of the World Cup, Chivas will host the second leg at Estadio Jalisco on Saturday, May 16.
The other Liga MX semifinal series between Pachuca and Pumas begins Thursday, with the return match scheduled for Sunday, May 17.
Final Thoughts
The first leg between Cruz Azul and Chivas delivered everything fans could ask for — dramatic goals, emotional moments, VAR controversy, and nonstop action. With the series perfectly balanced at 2-2, the decisive clash in Guadalajara promises even more excitement as both clubs fight for a place in the Liga MX final.
