Cruz Azul edged Santos Laguna 3–2 in Cruz Azul vs Santos match on an Apertura 2025 thriller — with Fernández’s return sealing the deal. Full recap, key moments, and what’s next for both sides.
Cruz Azul vs Santos— Final Score
Cruz Azul 3–2 Santos Laguna — in Matchday 5 of Liga MX’s Apertura 2025. The “Máquina Cementera” came from behind to secure a dramatic home win at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, propelled by a surprise hero — Gabriel “Toro” Fernández. The result moved Cruz Azul into a strong early position in the standings.
Background Setting
- Current form: Santos entered off a managerial change (Fernando Ortiz sacked in May, Francisco Rodríguez appointed) while Cruz Azul had welcomed Nicolás Larcamón as head coach in June after Vicente Sánchez’s departure. The coach transitions added tactical intrigue to the matchup.
- Motivation: Cruz Azul aimed to keep pace with early leaders, while Santos looked to stabilize under their new manager and climb the table.
Match Highlights & Turning Points
Timeline Highlights:
- Cruz Azul struck early through a composed opener by Carlos Rodríguez in the 16th minute, energizing their faithful at Olímpico Universitario.
- Equalizer by Santos: Bruno Barticciotto leveled in the 32nd minute, capitalizing on a dynamic attack.
- Santos briefly led at halftime: Christian Dájome scored in the 47th minute — a rapid response after the break.
- Drama in the final stretch: Gabriel Fernández emerged from the bench and pounced on a VAR-reviewed play to score the game-winner at the 82nd minute — marking a triumphant return.
Tactical Breakdown
| Phase | Cruz Azul Approach | Santos Tactical Move |
|---|---|---|
| First Half | Pressed high, used width effectively | Struggled to handle pace |
| Early Second Half | Santos countered early with press | Built momentum from restart |
| Final Phase | Substitutions reversed momentum | Couldn’t withstand pressure |
Cruz Azul’s substitutions, especially introducing Fernández, shifted dynamics decisively. Their ability to sustain pressure and exploit Santos’ fatigue played a key role in the late comeback.
La galería de la victoria presentada por @Electrolit 📸💙 pic.twitter.com/ailGaElizp
— CRUZ AZUL (@CruzAzul) August 17, 2025
Players Who Defined the Match
- Carlos Rodríguez (Cruz Azul): Set the tone with his early strike — movement and accuracy highlighted his contribution.
- Bruno Barticciotto & Christian Dájome (Santos): Both delivered standout finishes and kept their side competitive.
- Gabriel “Toro” Fernández (Cruz Azul): A match-winner off the bench — his goal captured emotion and timing, and will likely become a highlight of his return season.
Implications for the Season
- Cruz Azul: The win solidified their position near the top of the table and rewarded a bench-heavy, aggressive approach from Larcamón’s side.
- Santos Laguna: The loss underlines inconsistency and defensive issues, despite flashes of attacking competence.