Cruz Azul Secures Liguilla Spot Despite Recent Struggles
Filmogaz.com reports from Puebla on April 19, 2026. Cruz Azul drew 1-1 with Tijuana in Jornada 15. The result leaves the team mathematically qualified for the Liguilla despite recent struggles.
Match details
The game finished 1-1 at Estadio Cuauhtémoc. Attendance was noticeably low for a Liga MX fixture.
Gabriel Fernández opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 17th minute. Mourad El Ghezouani equalized in the 25th minute after a rebound push into the goal.
League position and consequences
Cruz Azul sits on 29 points and will remain among the top five places. That guarantees participation in the Liguilla.
Tijuana earned a point that moved them into eighth place. The visitors have collected 10 points across their last five matches.
If Atlas or León win their next fixtures, Tijuana could drop out of the playoff zone. The table remains fluid heading into the final rounds.
Coach, form and fan reaction
Nicolás Larcamón remains in charge as Cruz Azul prepares for the postseason. The coach has time to steady the squad before the Liguilla begins.
The club arrives at the playoffs on the back of five Liga MX matches without a win. Their recent exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup heightened supporter frustration.
Home form and public disenchantment have become talking points. Larcamón must rebuild confidence and fitness ahead of the knockout phase.
What to watch next
- How Larcamón adjusts tactics for the Liguilla.
- Whether Cruz Azul can end its winless streak before the playoffs.
- Tijuana’s ability to hold a top-eight place if Atlas or León succeed.
