Semifinal Showdown: Toluca FC vs. Tigres
Toluca FC secured their place in the Copa final by defeating Tigres 4-1 on aggregate, with a decisive 3-0 victory in the second leg. The match took place at Nemesio Diez Stadium, where Toluca fans chanted “Queremos la Copa,” a slogan unheard of in the trophy case for 15 years.
Controversial Refereeing and VAR
The match was marked by controversial refereeing decisions and the use of VAR. Despite this, Toluca maintained control throughout the game, demonstrating that Tigres were not in form for the playoffs. In the first leg, Tigres failed to capitalize on their chances and conceded a draw. They had previously struggled in the quarterfinals against Necaxa.
Toluca’s Offensive Dominance
Toluca’s goals stifled Tigres’ strategic project, led by Guido Pizarro. Post-match, Pizarro acknowledged Toluca’s well-deserved final spot and the need to work hard in the upcoming semester, his second as head coach. Each Toluca goal increased Tigres’ deficit, making a four-goal comeback impossible by the final score of 4-1.
Alexis Vega’s Resurgence
Alexis Vega has become Toluca’s cornerstone, rejuvenating his potential as a striker. He scored via penalty at the 17th minute and again at the 81st minute to secure the third goal. Edgar López also contributed, scoring after Paulinholo’s lead in the season’s top scorer list was passed to him.
Post-Match Conferences
Antonio Mohamed, Toluca FC Head Coach
- Potential opponent in the final: Mohamed stated he wouldn’t publicly disclose his preference between Cruz Azul or America, focusing on the team’s journey and enjoying the moment.
- Satisfaction in his first tournament with Toluca: Mohamed expressed happiness and determination to win the Copa, acknowledging that both finalists are strong teams.
- Contract renewal: Mohamed emphasized the importance of enjoying the final appearance and postponing contract discussions until after the title is secured.
- Respect for Tigres’ elimination: Mohamed showed respect for Tigres, calling them a worthy opponent and focusing on Toluca’s objective of reaching the final, which they have accomplished.
- Favorites in the Clausura 2025 final: Mohamed maintained that the upcoming final would be a 50-50 chance for either team, emphasizing the importance of home-field advantage and the need for a solid performance in the first leg.
Guido Pizarro, Tigres Head Coach
- Accepting elimination: Pizarro expressed disappointment for not reaching the final with his former team, acknowledging the need for a thorough analysis and improvement for the upcoming season.
- Generational change in Tigres: Pizarro noted the transition in Tigres’ roster, with many veterans from the golden era no longer playing. He emphasized the new group’s construction and their aim to maintain Tigres’ position among the top teams.
- Lessons learned: Pizarro highlighted the valuable experience gained from his debut season as a head coach, vowing to analyze and improve for the future.
- Controversial refereeing decision: Pizarro addressed the disallowed goal by Nicolás Ibáñez, stating that focusing on the team’s performance throughout both legs would be more constructive.
- Offensive issues: Pizarro recognized the need to improve Tigres’ offensive output, acknowledging it as a statistic that doesn’t align with the team’s aspirations.
