Liga Mx Women Tigres Femenil once again proved why they have remained the undisputed powerhouse of Liga MX Femenil for years. In the second leg of the semifinals, they defeated Cruz Azul 2–1 (3–2 on aggregate), securing their place in the grand final of the Apertura 2025. The match at Estadio Universitario had everything: emotions, VAR, goals, controversy and tension until the very last seconds.
Cruz Azul start strong with early pressure
Although Tigres were clear favorites as the leaders of the regular season, the beginning belonged to a brave Cruz Azul. La Máquina did not intend to limit themselves to defending and, in the opening minutes, threatened Santiago’s goal several times. This offensive approach showed that the visitors came to El Volcán for more than just an honorable defeat.
VAR in the spotlight and Hermoso’s confident strike
In the 14th minute, the match took on a completely different tone. After a handball by Daniela Calderón, the referee, following a VAR review, pointed to the spot. Jennifer Hermoso stepped up and converted with a confident strike, opening the scoring and calming Tigres’ play.
The goal allowed the Amazonas to take control of the rhythm, though Cruz Azul came close to equalizing more than once, most notably when Chavarin hit the post with a powerful shot that could have changed the match entirely.
Second half: red cards, disallowed goals and rising tension
After the break, Tigres pushed for the goal that could effectively seal the tie. The following minutes brought even more drama. In the 55th minute, Sol Lemos received a second yellow card, leaving Cruz Azul a player short at a crucial moment. Soon after, Diana Ordoñez found the net, but the goal was overturned after a VAR check due to a marginal offside.
The Amazonas finally doubled their lead in the 65th minute. A precise cross from the left reached Diana Ordoñez, who this time was perfectly positioned and headed the ball in for 2–0. The goal seemed to put the tie beyond doubt.
Cruz Azul refuse to give up and fight back late
Despite playing with ten players, Cruz Azul still managed to come back into the match. In the 88th minute, after another VAR intervention, a penalty was awarded for a handball inside the Tigres box. Deneisha Blackwood confidently reduced the deficit, setting up a nerve-wracking finish.
The four minutes of stoppage time were a true test of character for Tigres. The hosts focused on protecting their lead, while Cruz Azul pushed courageously for an equalizer that would send the game to extra time. Ultimately, the Amazonas kept their composure and held on until the final whistle.
Tigres earn another shot at the title
The 3–2 aggregate win gives Tigres their eighth final in club history and reaffirms their dominance in Mexican women’s football. Meanwhile, Cruz Azul Femenil, despite the elimination, can look back on one of the strongest performances in their history. The team showed character, bravery and clear growth, which may bring future success.
