Toluca Clinches Back-to-Back Titles by Beating Tigres 9-8 in Shootout

In a thrilling conclusion to the Liga MX Apertura tournament, Toluca clinched back-to-back titles, defeating Tigres 9-8 in an intense penalty shootout. The match ended with a score of 2-1 after regulation time, tied at 2-2 on aggregate.

Toluca’s Decisive Victory

The defining moment came after a long shootout, with 12 penalty takers from each team. Toluca faced missed opportunities from players Federico Pereira, Juan Dominguez, and goalkeeper Luis García. However, Alexis Vega, who returned from a month-and-a-half absence, scored the decisive penalty, igniting celebration at Estadio Nemesio Diez.

Match Overview

During the match, Toluca had to overcome a first-leg deficit after losing 1-0 in Monterrey. Things got more challenging when Fernando Gorriarán scored for Tigres just 14 minutes in, redirecting a free kick from André-Pierre Gignac.

Despite the early setback, Toluca equalized just before halftime when Helinho scored a stunning cross-shot. The second half continued the momentum, with Portuguese striker Paulinho netting the equalizer within minutes, completing the comeback.

Key Players and Contributions

• Alexis Vega: Scored the final penalty and contributed significantly to the team’s morale.
• Helinho: Scored one goal and provided an assist for another.
• Paulinho: A pivotal player, he scored the crucial equalizer and was instrumental throughout the season.

Vega expressed his determination to play despite not being fully fit, showing his commitment to the team’s success. “This is the love I have for Toluca,” he stated post-game.

Toluca’s Historic Achievement

This victory marked Toluca’s 12th league title, placing them in second position historically alongside Chivas de Guadalajara. They remain behind América, which has 16 titles.

Meanwhile, Tigres missed the opportunity to secure their ninth championship. For players like Nahuel Guzmán, André Pierre Gignac, and Javier Aquino, the quest for a sixth title continues.

Coaching Milestones

Argentinian coach Antonio Mohamed celebrated his fifth league title, a feat that places him among historical figures in Mexican football. He now shares the second position in league championships with legendary coaches like Victor Manuel Vucetich.

This remarkable match cements Toluca’s legacy as they join elite clubs like Pumas, León, Atlas, and América as back-to-back champions in Liga MX’s short tournaments.