The first leg of the Clausura 2026 semifinals between Chivas de Guadalajara and Cruz Azul delivered exactly the kind of chaotic, high-energy football that makes the Liga MX playoffs so compelling. The 2-2 draw at Banorte Stadium leaves everything on the table for the return match this Saturday at Jalisco Stadium.
Chivas came into the match shorthanded, missing five players called up to the Mexican national team and the injured Daniel Aguirre. Yet Gabriel Milito's side showed remarkable composure, striking first through Santiago Sandoval in the 29th minute. Sandoval pounced on a rebound from Ricardo Marín's shot to put the Rebaño Sagrado ahead.
Cruz Azul responded before halftime. Carlos Rodríguez chipped goalkeeper Óscar Whalley after a clever pass from Paradela, leveling the score at 1-1 in the 37th minute. The goal came at a crucial moment, shifting momentum just before the break.
In the second half, Milito adjusted his tactics, bringing on Miguel Gómez. The move paid off almost immediately. Gómez delivered a cross that Ángel Sepúlveda headed home in the 50th minute, putting Chivas back in front. But the lead lasted barely a minute. A foul on Christian Ebere led to a penalty after VAR review, and the Nigerian forward converted from the spot in the 56th minute to make it 2-2.
A Battle of Will and Depth
The final half-hour saw Cruz Azul take control of possession, pushing for a winner. Willer Ditta came close for the Máquina, while Chivas held firm defensively. The home side had one last clear chance through Sergio Aguayo in the 87th minute, but couldn't convert.
The draw reflects the parity between these two clubs. Chivas, despite their absences, showed they can compete with anyone when their young players step up. Cruz Azul, meanwhile, demonstrated why they're considered one of the deepest squads in the league, able to adjust and fight back on the road.
This match also marked the final game at Banorte Stadium before it is handed over for final preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The venue will host matches during the tournament, adding an extra layer of significance to the night.
The return leg moves to Jalisco Stadium, Chivas' temporary home while Akron Stadium remains under FIFA control for World Cup preparations. With the aggregate score tied, both teams have everything to play for. Chivas will hope to recover some of their missing players, while Cruz Azul will look to impose their game on foreign soil.
For a deeper look at the full semifinal picture, check out our coverage of the Liga MX Semifinals and how the other matchups are shaping up.
