Mexico City, February 14. Pumas UNAM achieved a historic comeback and advanced to the round of 16 of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
The university team defeated Canada's Cavalry FC 2-0 at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, securing their qualification with an aggregate of 3-2. Guillermo Martínez was the standout player of the match. The Mexican forward excelled with a brace that secured Pumas's victory and qualification.
A match of dominance and Pumas's grit
Pumas imposed their game from the start with an offensive approach and great physical display. They dominated possession and created several goal opportunities.
The first goal came in the 32nd minute. Martínez headed in a precise cross from Leo Suárez and put the university team ahead.
In the second half, Cavalry FC tried to react and seek the goal for qualification. However, Pumas's defense remained firm and blocked every attempt by the Canadian team.
In the 75th minute, Martínez sealed the match with a powerful cross shot that unleashed euphoria in the stadium.
Pumas will face Alajuelense in the round of 16
Pumas is already thinking about their next challenge. They will face Costa Rica's Liga Deportiva Alajuelense in the round of 16 of the Concacaf Champions Cup. The first leg will be played in Mexico and the return leg on Costa Rican soil.
The university team will seek to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2022, when they reached the tournament final and fell to MLS's Seattle Sounders.
The coach and players celebrate the victory
Pumas's coach, Gustavo Lema, expressed satisfaction with his team's performance and praised the attitude of his players.
"We knew we had to win at home and we did it. Now we're going all out for the next phase," Lema declared at the end of the match.
Meanwhile, Guillermo Martínez highlighted the importance of the tournament and the team's ambition.
"We want to fight for the title and show that Pumas is up for great things," the Mexican forward stated.
The auriazul fans celebrated the qualification and trust that the team will continue advancing in the international competition.
