The Apertura 2025 final brings Tigres and Toluca face to face in a duel of contrasts: one team built on offensive firepower and another on tactical balance. Beyond collective performance, key individuals — through goals, assists, recovery, or creativity — could dictate the rhythm of the match. Here’s a breakdown of six players whose presence may weigh heavily on the final.
Tigres UANL
Ángel Correa
Ángel Correa is unquestionably one of Tigres' most decisive players under pressure. His ability to play between the lines, turn quickly, and take on defenders makes him a constant threat. In a final where space becomes limited, his vision and technical quality can tip the balance.
Beyond his individual talent, Correa elevates those around him. His movement forces defensive adjustments that open space for Brunetta, Gorriarán, or the forwards. When Tigres need clarity and verticality in attack, he is the player who changes the pace of the game.
Juan Francisco Brunetta
Brunetta is Tigres’ creative engine. His vision, passing precision, and tactical awareness allow Tigres to construct dangerous plays with patience and control. In a final — where defensive mistakes are costly — his capacity to manage tempo and connect the attack becomes vital.
He also contributes to goals. According to recent stats, Brunetta is among Tigres’ top scorers this season. This dual function — creator and finisher — makes him essential to Tigres’ offensive fluidity.
Intervenciones ofensivas de Juan Brunetta en sus últimos 10 partidos. pic.twitter.com/8D0qItO7vG
— Piscu (@santtucarp) December 8, 2025
Fernando Gorriarán
Gorriarán provides balance and structure in Tigres’ midfield. His work rate, ball recovery, and intensity make him a crucial defensive piece against Toluca’s transitions. In tense, high-stakes matches, his control of the midfield can give Tigres the stability they need.
Despite his defensive responsibilities, Gorriarán also contributes going forward. His timing on late runs into the box and his chemistry with Tigres’ attackers allow him to become an unexpected offensive option in crucial moments.
Toluca FC
Paulinho
Paulinho is Toluca’s main offensive threat. This season, he secured yet another top goalscorer award — his third in a row — showcasing elite consistency and killer instinct. In a final, his ability to convert even minimal chances immediately places him at the center of attention.
His movement, strength, and aggressiveness draw defensive resources, creating opportunities for his teammates. With Paulinho on the field, Toluca always has a finisher capable of punishing any defensive lapse.
Paulinho es el jugador mejor evaluado de Liga MX desde su debut con Toluca (julio de 2024). pic.twitter.com/Ds4son0I9x
— Statiskicks (@statiskicks) December 7, 2025
Marcel Ruiz
Ruiz is Toluca’s tactical brain. His control of rhythm, passing quality, and spatial awareness makes him essential for connecting the phases of play. According to league assist rankings, he stands among the top creators this season.
His intelligence also helps Toluca regulate the pace when needed. In a final where Tigres will try to impose their intensity, Marcel’s technical calmness can be the factor that keeps Toluca organized and dangerous in possession.
Jesús “Canelo” Angulo
“Canelo” Angulo brings versatility and dynamism to Toluca’s attack. Capable of playing as a winger, interior midfielder, or second forward, his mobility and aggressive dribbling create problems for any defensive line. In finals, this versatility becomes particularly valuable.
Angulo also impacts the match with personality. He doesn’t shy away from responsibility, often taking risks when the game becomes stagnant. His unpredictability gives Toluca tactical flexibility that can unsettle Tigres at key moments.
This final won’t be just a battle between two teams — it will be shaped by individual moments of brilliance, control, or composure. These six players combine talent, consistency, and personality, all of which are decisive traits in a championship match. If any of them manage to impose their style, they could swing the result.