Xolos draw 1-1 with Cruz Azul in Matchday 15, keep playoff hopes alive

Xolos earned a crucial point against Cruz Azul in a match marked by controversy and limited attacking play

Joel Casillas

4/19/20261 min read

A valuable point in the playoff race

Club Tijuana secured a 1-1 draw against Cruz Azul in Matchday 15 of Liga MX, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

While still depending on other results, every point remains crucial at this stage of the season.

Different contexts for both teams

Xolos entered the match after a win over FC Juárez, while Cruz Azul was coming off a disappointing elimination in the Concacaf Champions Cup against Los Angeles FC.

This added pressure on the team coached by Nicolás Larcamón.

Controversial penalty opens the scoring

The match began with a defensive approach from Club Tijuana, focusing on organization and counterattacks.

In the 17th minute, Cruz Azul was awarded a controversial penalty. Gabriel Fernández converted to make it 1-0.

Quick response from Xolos

Xolos responded quickly. In the 25th minute, Adonis Preciado created an attacking play that led to a rebound inside the box, where Mourad Daoudi scored the equalizer.

A tight and uneventful second half

After the equalizer, the match remained largely unchanged: Xolos stayed compact defensively while Cruz Azul struggled to create clear chances.

Despite crowd frustration, the scoreline remained 1-1.

Mixed reactions after the match

Coach Nicolás Larcamón stated that his team is performing well, though fan reactions suggested otherwise.

Meanwhile, Club Tijuana takes a valuable point that keeps their playoff hopes alive.

What’s next

Xolos will return home to face CF Pachuca in a crucial match for their playoff aspirations.

Cruz Azul remains near the top of the standings, close to securing a playoff spot, though questions remain about their current form.