Tigres stages dramatic second-leg turnaround to advance to semifinals after trailing 3-0 from first match
In one of the most thrilling reversals of fortune in recent Liga MX history, Tigres delivered a devastating 5-0 performance to eliminate Tijuana from the Apertura Playoff and secure their spot in the semifinals. The commanding victory came in the second leg of their quarterfinal matchup, completely erasing the sting of their 3-0 first-leg defeat at Estadio Caliente.
The Comeback Nobody Saw Coming
Tijuana arrived at Estadio Universitario with a commanding 3-0 advantage from the opening match, seemingly in control of their playoff destiny. But Tigres had other plans. What unfolded was a masterclass in playoff football, as the home side systematically dismantled their opponents with clinical finishing and relentless pressure.
Nicolás Ibáñez opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a well-placed header, assisted by Jesús Garza, giving Tigres the early momentum they desperately needed. The goal set the tone for what would become a dominant display of attacking prowess.
Brunetta's Penalty Heroics
The turning point came in the 30th minute when
Juan Brunetta converted a penalty kick to double Tigres' lead and put them firmly in control of the tie. Brunetta wasn't finished there—the midfielder added another goal just nine minutes later in the 39th minute, this time from open play with an assist from Ibáñez, to give Tigres a commanding 3-0 advantage on the night.
By the final whistle, Brunetta had netted a brace, becoming the standout performer in one of the most lopsided playoff encounters in recent memory. His two-goal performance proved decisive in Tigres' advancement.
What This Means for the Playoffs
Tigres now advances to the Liga MX Apertura semifinals, where they'll face fresh opponents after this emotional roller coaster of a quarterfinal series. The victory represents a stunning turnaround from the brink of elimination, showcasing the resilience and quality that has made Tigres one of Mexico's most successful clubs.
For Tijuana, the loss marks another heartbreaking playoff exit despite their dominant first-leg performance. The inability to close out the series at home proved costly, as they were completely overwhelmed in the second leg.
The semifinal stage awaits Tigres, where they'll look to carry this momentum forward in their quest for the Apertura championship.
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Tigres vs Tijuana - Live Score - Fox Sports2.
Tigres vs. Tijuana Live Score - ESPN3.
Tigres vs Tijuana Match Information - FotMob
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5. Tigres vs Tijuana 2025 Highlights Liga MX Quarterfinals Blowout
6. Tigres vs Tijuana 2025 Highlights Liga MX Quarterfinals Blowout