Liga MX: Will Pumas run continue past America?

Last match

Pumas UNAM 1 – Club America 1

Playing on the road, America deployed a lineup with five defenders at the back for the 3rd time in as many games. Like the last two, America struck first, this time in the 21st minute from the foot of Diego Lainez who found himself in the starting 11 for the first time in this Liguilla. Shortly after the half, Martin Rodriguez found the back of the net to tie the game. In the 73rd minute, Luis Quintana was shown a yellow for a handball, and America looked like they’d retake the lead from the penalty spot. Roger Martinez’s kick was, well, awful, and Alfredo Saldivar was able to keep the score tied. From there it was Pumas with the better chances, but Marchesin with the better saves. The goalkeeper ended up with six total saves on the night, but came up huge in other ways, ending chances that sprung up for Pumas with regularity.

Once again, America took a conservative approach after their opening goal. They were content to sit back and try to absorb the pressure from Pumas. This resulted in 24 clearances on the night to go along with just 234 passes to Pumas’ 453.

That sets up the second leg at the Azteca. The result will determine who will go on to the final against Cruz Azul, who won their match-up with Monterrey on Saturday.