Tigres Coach Guido Pizarro Analyzes 1-1 Draw Against Cruz Azul in Concacaf Champions Cup Semifinals

Guido Pizarro, head coach of Tigres, offered a critical analysis after his team’s 1-1 draw against Cruz Azul in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals. While acknowledging the result as fair, Pizarro emphasized the need for his team to improve its solidity and clarity in their playing style to have a shot at reaching the final.

Pizarro stressed that better ball possession would be essential for the return leg. “If we can strengthen our possession, we’ll have a better chance. I’m concerned that our game intent needs improvement,” he stated.

Despite the draw, Pizarro noted that both teams aimed to play attractive football, with the series remaining highly competitive. “It’s a very close series, with both teams trying to play good football. There are still 90 minutes left, and it will be very tight,” he said, anticipating an intense battle for the second leg.

The goal from Cruz Azul altered the match’s dynamics, forcing the Celeste team to sit back defensively, making it challenging for Tigres to move forward. “Once they scored, they sat back, and we needed more attacking play,” explained Pizarro. He highlighted the importance of enhancing offensive strategies to break down compact defenses.

Even though Tigres faced difficulties during the match, Juan José Purata’s late goal kept them in the tie. Pizarro believes the team has the potential to fix their mistakes and compete at the highest level, but they must do so with improved tactical clarity and a strong mindset if they are to reach the Concacaf Champions Cup final.