Overview of the Apertura 2025 Tournament
After five rounds, only two out of the eighteen teams in Liga MX have yet to taste defeat: Cruz Azul and America. Both have secured their place in the top five of the overall table, though Cruz Azul holds a slight advantage with a higher goal difference.
Cruz Azul’s Victory Over Santos
Cruz Azul triumphed 3-2 over Santos at the Cosmos Urban Sporting Park, thanks to a stunning chilena goal by Carlos ‘Charly’ Rodríguez at the 16th minute, followed by another from captain Ignacio Rivero at the 34th minute, and a final goal from Gabriel ‘Toro’ Fernández at the 82nd minute.
Santos managed to respond twice, with Bruno Barticciotto scoring at the 32nd minute and Cristian Dájome equalizing at the 47th minute. However, their efforts were in vain after Ramiro Sordo’s expulsion at the 40th minute. This victory brings Cruz Azul’s record to three wins and two draws under the guidance of new Argentine head coach Nicolás Larcamón.
Larcamón’s Focus and Piovi’s Transfer Interest
Larcamón acknowledged the team’s early stages of development, emphasizing their growth despite facing challenges from opponents. He also addressed the interest of Inter Miami in signing Cruz Azul defender Gonzalo Piovi, stating that the loss would be significant but expressing confidence in the team’s remaining players.
America’s Win in Monterrey
The other unbeaten team, America, secured a 1-3 victory against Tigres at the University Stadium in Nuevo Leon. Juan Brunetta opened the scoring for the home team at just five minutes, but America responded with two goals from Érick Sánchez (41st and 58th minutes) and an own goal by Nahuel Guzmán (69th minute).
America has won 12 of their last 15 matches against Tigres. This recent victory was notable as Tigres entered the match with an unbeaten record, having defeated Juárez, Toluca, and Puebla.
André Jardine’s Gesture and Upcoming Matches
America’s coach, Brazilian André Jardine, made headlines for signaling his three Liga MX titles towards the Tigres fans. He defended this action, stating his respect for Tigres and appreciation for the support from America’s fans in their home stadium.
America will face Atlas, Pachuca, Chivas, and Monterrey in upcoming Liga MX matches. Their next challenge is yet to be determined, as Monterrey’s result against Mazatlán will influence the top-five standings.
Standings After Jornada 5
- 1. Pachuca – 12 points, +6 goal difference
- 2. Cruz Azul – 11 points, +5 goal difference
- 3. America – 11 points, +5 goal difference
- 4. Toluca – 10 points, +5 goal difference
- 5. Tigres – 9 points, +7 goal difference
*Monterrey could displace Tigres from the top five if they either draw or defeat Mazatlán in the final match of Jornada 5.
Other Results from Jornada 5
- Bravos de Juárez defeated Chivas 2-1 at the Akron Stadium.
- Defending champions Toluca drew 1-1 with Pumas at the Nemesio Diez.
Monterrey will conclude the weekend by hosting Mazatlán. If Monterrey wins by more than four goals, they will take the lead from Pachuca. A narrower victory would place them in second place.
