Soccer

Cruz Azul clinches Clausura title with late strike, Joel Huiqui makes history

A dramatic final in Mexico City sees the cementers lift the trophy amid coaching milestones and disciplinary drama

The Clausura tournament final in Mexico City turned into a thriller as Cruz Azul edged Pumas UNAM 2-1 in a dramatic finish.

Rodolfo Rotondi's stoppage-time strike sealed the victory, capping a comeback that left the capital's fans on edge.

A milestone for Mexican coaching

Interim coach Joel Huiqui became the first Mexican tactician to lift the Liga MX trophy since 2020, ending a drought that had seen foreign managers dominate the league's recent successes.

Pumas had taken the lead early through Paraguayan midfielder Robert Morales, but an own goal in the 53rd minute restored parity before Rotondi's decisive moment.

The win marks Cruz Azul's first championship since the Clausura 2021 tournament and brings their total to ten league titles, a tally that trails only Club América, Chivas and Toluca in the all-time rankings.

Despite the triumph, the celebrations were tinged with the absence of two Pumas players who were sent off, leaving the team to finish the match with nine men.

Goalkeeper Kevin Mier was seen embracing his teammates after the final whistle, his joy reflecting the significance of the trophy for the club and its supporters.

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