Puebla Seeks Redemption as Cruz Azul Eyes the Top Spot
As the Apertura 2025 enters its decisive stage, Puebla and Cruz Azul face off in a crucial Jornada 16 match that could influence both ends of the Liga MX table. While Puebla aims to close a disappointing season on a positive note, Cruz Azul continues its push for the top spot before the final round of fixtures.
The Road So Far: A Season to Forget for Puebla
It’s been a rough campaign for Hernán Cristante’s Puebla, who sit at the bottom of the standings with only 9 points from 15 matches — the fewest in the league. With just two wins, three draws, and ten defeats, the club has struggled to find form throughout the tournament.
Even if Puebla manages to secure three points against Cruz Azul, they’ll remain rooted to 18th place, marking one of their most challenging seasons in recent memory.
Last week, Puebla showed some fight in an entertaining 4–4 draw with Bravos de Juárez, displaying attacking potential but major defensive lapses. Their challenge on Friday will be to balance that offensive spark with stronger defensive organization.
To make matters worse, Cristante won’t be on the sidelines for this game, as he serves a suspension following disciplinary issues in their clash against América.
Cruz Azul’s Mission: A Shot at the League Summit
On the other hand, Cruz Azul enters the match full of confidence after an impressive 2–0 victory over Rayados de Monterrey. Under Nicolás Larcamón, the team has established itself as one of the most consistent sides this season, currently sitting third in the table.
If Toluca and Tigres fail to earn more than a point in their respective fixtures, a Cruz Azul win could potentially push them into first place heading into the final matchday.
Larcamón’s side has displayed a well-rounded game — solid in defense and dangerous in attack — with key players like Gabriel Fernández, Mateusz Bogusz, and José Paradela leading the charge. Against Puebla, “La Máquina” will be heavy favorites but must stay focused to avoid a late-season slip.
Match Details: Puebla vs Cruz Azul
- Tournament: Liga MX Apertura 2025 – Jornada 16
- Date: Friday, October 31, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 9:05 PM (CDMX) / 11:05 PM (ET)
- Venue: Estadio Cuauhtémoc, Puebla
This match will not only be pivotal for Cruz Azul’s title ambitions but also a chance for Puebla to reclaim pride before the season ends.
Probable Lineups
Puebla (Coach: Hernán Cristante – suspended)
Starting XI:
Jesús Rodríguez; José Pachuca, Efraín Orona, Eduardo Navarro, Nicolás Díaz; Álvaro Burgos, Luis Gabriel Rey, Alejandro Organista; Emiliano Gómez, Édgar Guerra, Ricardo Marín.
Cruz Azul (Coach: Nicolás Larcamón)
Starting XI:
Kevin Mier; Erik Lira, Jesús Orozco, Willer Ditta, Ángel Márquez; Carlos Rodríguez, Omar Campos, Amaury Morales; Gabriel Fernández, Mateusz Bogusz, José Paradela.
What’s at Stake
For Puebla, the goal is simple — finish strong and give their fans something to cheer about after a season filled with disappointment. A victory over a top-tier rival like Cruz Azul would inject some much-needed positivity into the locker room.
For Cruz Azul, the motivation is equally clear. With the top of the table still within reach, this match represents a vital opportunity to keep pressure on Toluca and Tigres. A convincing win could set the tone for a powerful finish heading into the Liguilla.
As both teams take the field at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc, fans can expect contrasting ambitions — survival versus supremacy — but one common goal: ending the night with pride and momentum.
