The America vs Tigres second leg match of the quarterfinals ended in an intense 1-1 tie which ultimately gives the ‘aguilas’ their pass into the semifinals. Although the aggregate scored ended in a 3-3 tie, Club America won the series due to the away-goal rule, after they scored twice last week at the Estadio Universitario. With this result, Tigres is eliminated from the Apertura 2013 playoffs, while America will face either Toluca, or Quererato (if they eliminate Santos Sunday night).
The quarterfinal match was played at a wonderful atmosphere at the sold-out Estadio Azteca. The first half was a divided contest between two teams who styled tactics with offensive mentality. In the first 20 minutes, it was the home team who made the best scoring opportunities; however, due to striker miscues, Tigres kept their goal intact.
The game because very intense starting early in the second half after Raul Jimenez scored a wonderful goal. In the 52nd minute, Miguel Layun used his speed to create a great cross to Jimenez who scored on a diving header. That allowed the match to become very aggressive, both offensively and physically.
Shortly after America’s goal, Tigres defender Hugo Ayala was shown a red card in the 55th after a double yellow. With one less player, and with the momentum in favor of America, things seemed that the home team would easily dominate the rest of the match. Surprisingly, Tigres scored in the 57th minute after a great counter-attack by Alan Pulido. With that goal, Tuca Ferreti moved up his lines, while the ‘aguilas’ began to play defensively.
The last 30 minutes of the match consisted of America playing on the counter-attack, while Tigres dominated on offense. The visitors were close to scoring the leading goal after a shot by Emmanuel Villa which hit the post. Nonetheless, America was successful in resisting the Tigres pressure, and advanced into the semifinals.
Enjoy the America vs Tigres 1-1 Video Highlights:
