A High-Stakes Clash at Estadio Universitario
The Tigres vs Necaxa match on May 12, 2025, delivered a rollercoaster of emotions for fans at Estadio Universitario in Monterrey, Mexico, ending in a dramatic 2-2 draw during the Liga MX Clausura Playoffs quarterfinals. With both teams fighting for a semifinal spot, the game showcased intense competition, late heroics, and a controversial VAR decision that kept supporters on the edge of their seats. Played at 03:10 UTC (08:40 IST), this Tigres UANL vs Necaxa encounter highlighted why these playoffs are a must-watch for soccer enthusiasts.
The match started with Necaxa taking an early lead, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Tigres in the 15th minute. Despite a spectacular save by Tigres goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán earlier, Necaxa’s persistence paid off with a well-placed shot. Tigres struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with Necaxa dominating possession and creating more chances. By halftime, the score remained 1-0, leaving Tigres fans anxious for a comeback.
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Tigres Fight Back in the Second Half
The second half saw Tigres vs Necaxa shift gears as Tigres UANL came out with renewed energy. In the 60th minute, Tigres equalized through a header from André-Pierre Gignac, who rose above the Necaxa defense to nod in a pinpoint cross from Juan Brunetta. The Estadio Universitario erupted as Tigres gained momentum, pushing for a lead. However, Necaxa struck back in the 85th minute with a clinical finish, making it 2-1 and putting Tigres’ semifinal hopes in jeopardy.
The drama peaked in stoppage time. At the 90+1 mark, a shot from Tigres’ Jesús Alberto Angulo hit the crossbar, sparking a frantic sequence. Then, in the 90+6 minute, Tigres scored a controversial equalizer—an own goal by a Necaxa defender following a VAR review. Initially disallowed, the referee overturned the decision after intervention, confirming the goal and tying the score at 2-2. The late twist ensured Tigres stayed alive in the tie, with the aggregate score now level heading into the second leg.
Fan Reactions and Key Moments
Fans on X were vocal about the Tigres vs Necaxa match, reflecting the high stakes. One user wrote, “That VAR call saved Tigres! What a game—Necaxa deserved more, though.” Another fan praised Gignac, saying, “Gignac is still the king of clutch for Tigres. That header was pure class.” The controversy surrounding the VAR decision divided opinions, with some Necaxa supporters feeling hard done by, while Tigres fans celebrated the lifeline.
Key stats from the game highlight the intensity. Tigres held 55% possession compared to Necaxa’s 45%, but Necaxa edged out on shots, with 12 to Tigres’ 10, including 4 on target. Both teams earned 5 corners each, and the match saw 3 yellow cards—two for Tigres and one for Necaxa—reflecting the physicality of the contest. Nahuel Guzmán’s early save and Gignac’s goal were pivotal, but Necaxa’s resilience in the second half showed why they’ve been a tough opponent this season.
Implications for Tigres UANL and Necaxa
The 2-2 draw in this Tigres UANL vs Necaxa clash sets up a thrilling second leg. Tigres, who have a strong home record (78% win rate this season at Estadio Universitario), will need to address defensive vulnerabilities exposed by Necaxa’s counterattacks. Necaxa, despite the late setback, will take confidence from their performance, having gone unbeaten in their last 5 games leading into this match. The away goals rule could favor Necaxa, but Tigres’ experience in playoffs might give them the edge.
Tigres’ recent form—unbeaten in their last 5 games, with 2 wins and 3 draws—shows their resilience, though their inability to score in 3 of those matches raises concerns. Necaxa, meanwhile, has been prolific, averaging 1.6 goals per game in their last 5 outings, but their defense conceded late, costing them a crucial lead. The second leg on May 15, 2025, at Estadio Victoria will be decisive for both teams’ semifinal hopes.
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