Pumas vs Pachuca: Álvaro Angulo’s debut goal, post-match analysis, Liga MX standings, lineups, betting odds & what’s next in Apertura.
🧭 Pumas vs Pachuca Story
Pumas UNAM hosted Pachuca at Estadio Olímpico Universitario for their second match of Liga MX Apertura 2025 on Sunday, July 20, 2025. Both clubs entered hoping for some early scores when Pachuca had a convincing 3–0 win over Monterrey in their opener, while Pumas debuted with a scoreless loss, prompting lineup changes by their coach Efraín Juárez.
Pumas made their squad strong in summer with key signings: Colombia left-back Álvaro Angulo, Ecuadorian Pedro Vite and former European pro Aaron Ramsey. Angulo, 28, joined for a $1.5 million fee and took the number 77 jersey.
🥅 Match Main Scene & Score
- Early Goals were dominated by showing off skills on midfield battles and set-piece probing.
- 6′ – GOAL PUMAS: Fresh recruit Álvaro Angulo opened the scoring. Bennevendo’s cross-turned-assist allowed Angulo to power the opening Goal.
- 15′ – GOAL PACHUCA: Pachuca immediately answered through Alan Bautista, capitalizing on a Pumas keeper parry to restore parity.
- The rest of the match was full of typical Liga MX intensity, but no further goals 1–1 draw final.
- Key moment at 20′: tension flared with heated midfield battles, but referees maintained control .
🧠 Breaking Down The Tactics
| Team | Strategy | Key Takeaways |
|---|---|---|
| Pumas UNAM | 4‑4‑2 shaping | Angulo’s surge up the left flank gave width; midfield transition lacked clinical finishing; defense held firm under pressure. |
| Pachuca | 4‑2‑3‑1 control | Dominant possession (51%), incisive through Montiel & Cadiz; keeper relied on rebounds leading to Bautista’s goal. |
🌟 Álvaro Angulo’s 1st Appearance
- Background: Colombian full‑back (born 1997), signed July 15, 2025 for a $1.5 million fee 60% rights .
- Impact: Delivered immediate return with goal plus assured left‑side defending.
- Fan & expert praise: Angulo’s energy, attacking intensity on the Field and mature control over the Ball impressed all the observers in his first match.
📉 League Table Details
- Standings: Pachuca is forward to 3rd with 4 points where Pumas are in 16th position and also with 4 points but lower on goal differential.
- Next fixtures: Pumas visit Cruz Azul where Pachuca face Tijuana early vital matches in the race for playoff positions.
📈 Betting’s, Odds & Predictions
- Prior to kickoff, Pachuca were slight favorites based on prior form.
- Matchday odds now hovering around a 1.1 over 2.5 goals—draw less likely before kickoff, but result validated cautious expectations.
🤝 Transfers & Roster Moves
- Pedro Vite, 23-year-old Ecuadorian, expected debut match after signing from Vancouver Whitecaps .
- Aaron Ramsey also arrived, solidifying midfield depth.
- Angulo’s rise played central role and could be first of several defensive new signings.
Termina el primer tiempo en CU #UnidosPorLaHistoria #FutbolEnTusManos @Telcel pic.twitter.com/UQCEiPWcAb
— PUMAS (@PumasMX) July 20, 2025
🧭 What’s Next for Both Clubs
- Pumas: With new wings in Angulo and Vite, team shows attacking promise—consistency and defensive cohesion remain priorities.
- Pachuca: Early offense is encouraging; must maintain away resilience and defense to stay in top group for playoffs.