The Liga MX Apertura 2025 season commenced with a tense encounter at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario in Mexico City, as Cruz Azul hosted Mazatlán FC on Saturday, July 12, 2025. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, La Máquina Celeste were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by a defensively resolute Mazatlán side.
Under the guidance of new coach Nicolás Larcamón, Cruz Azul entered the match with high expectations, especially after being recognized as the Liga MX’s top team for the 2024-2025 season, accumulating an impressive 75 points. This accolade, presented by league commissioner Mikel Arriola, also granted them direct entry to the CONCACAF Champions Cup and a $1 million award. The team’s recent acquisitions, including Jeremy Márquez, Alexis Gutiérrez, and José Paradela, were expected to bolster their attacking prowess.
From the outset, Cruz Azul asserted their dominance, maintaining 73.9% of possession throughout the match, compared to Mazatlán’s 26.1%. They launched 14 shots towards goal, with 4 on target, but were consistently thwarted by Mazatlán’s disciplined five-man defensive line and an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Ricardo Gutiérrez. Gutiérrez made crucial saves, denying several clear-cut chances, particularly from Cruz Azul’s Ángel Sepúlveda, who had multiple opportunities but couldn’t find the back of the net. Ignacio Rivero also came agonizingly close in the dying minutes, hitting the crossbar with a header.
For Mazatlán FC, led by coach Robert Dante Siboldi, the draw was a hard-fought point on the road. Having finished 16th in the Clausura 2025, their pre-season victories against Newell’s Old Boys and even Cruz Azul hinted at their potential. Their strategy was clear: absorb pressure and look for counter-attacks. While they managed 7 shots, none were on target, highlighting their focus on defensive solidity. Key defensive players like Samir and Facundo Almada were instrumental in clearing crosses and blocking shots, frustrating Cruz Azul’s relentless attacks. Mazatlán also saw new faces like Alberto Herrera and Sebastián Fierro make their mark.
New Cruz Azul reinforcement José Paradela made a strong debut, showcasing his ability to create chances from midfield. Speaking before the match, Paradela expressed his enthusiasm for joining such a significant club and reuniting with Coach Larcamón. Fellow new signing Jeremy Márquez also shared his championship aspirations, stating, “I’m only thinking about the championship. That’s what I’m thinking about, along with my teammates.”
The match saw a total of six yellow cards, with Mazatlán’s Sebastián Fierro, Samir, and Bryan Colula receiving cautions, alongside Cruz Azul’s Mateusz Bogusz, Alberto Herrera, and Ignacio Rivero, reflecting the intensity of the season opener. Both coaches made tactical substitutions in the second half, with Cruz Azul bringing on Carlos Rotondi, Charly Rodríguez, Jeremy Márquez, and Mateo Levy in an attempt to break the deadlock, while Mazatlán introduced Jorge García, Sebastián Fierro, Jefferson Intriago, Lucas Merolla, and Anwar Ben Rhouma to reinforce their defensive structure.
This goalless draw marks a cautious start for both teams in the Apertura 2025. For Cruz Azul, it’s a missed opportunity to secure three points at home and demonstrate their title credentials. For Mazatlán, it’s a valuable point earned against a strong opponent, setting a positive tone for their campaign. The Liga MX season will see a brief pause after Matchday 3 for the Leagues Cup, adding another layer of strategic planning for all teams involved. Fans can review the full match details and commentary on Mediotiempo, ESPN Deportes, and VAVEL.
