The Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM first-leg playoff match will be held this Thursday, May 1, 2014 (6:00 PM Pacific) at the Estadio Hidalgo. The Tuzos will host a difficult Pumas side in what will be a very tight contest between two similar, yet at times, irregular teams.
Pachuca, Motivated With Goals
Pachuca comes from playing Queretaro in a game that was crazy full of goals. Coming from behind after loosing 3-0, an inspired night from Enrique Esqueda allowed Pachuca to turn things around and end up wining 4-3; a score that allowed the team to move into post-season standings.
Enrique Meza will be determined to focus on offense as not only does Esqueda go into the game after scoring a hat-trick, but he also has the league’s top scorer, Enner Valencia. The troublesome offensive duo will be aided by another set of wonderful midfielders lead by Walter Ayovi and Jurgen Damm. If these players are on theit right night, then the Tuzos can dream of going into Mexico City with the score in their favor.
Pumas, Starting From Zero
It is a common belief that the liguilla is like a brand new tournament where regular season stats don’t go into play. In that sense, Pumas needs to embrace that idea and play this Thursday with a new mentality; clear of their regular season mishaps. Coming from a loss against Cruz Azul, Pumas ended up playing a somewhat decent game. With players like Dario Veron and Martin Bravo missing it was no surprise that they lost.
Pumas might still not count with Martin Bravo for the game against Pachuca, but young players like Ramirez will for sure be in the line up or coming in exchange of Dante Lopez. Players like Velarde and Fuentes will be key in the defense and Romagnoli and Cabrera will have to be strong in the mid-field.
Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM Prediction
The Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM first-leg quarterfinal will be an interesting game which will be stuck in the middle of the field. Both sides will aim to play conservatively, which will create a game slow at times, with little offensive pressure on either side. In the regular season these teams played to a draw, and this Thursday will be no exception. The Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM match will end 1-1, which means the series will be resolved next Sunday at the Estadio Olimpico.
Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM TV Schedule
The Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM match will be televised on Univision Deportes and online at UnivisionDeportes.com at 6:00 PM Pacific.
Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM Highlights
The Pachuca vs Pumas UNAM video highlights will be uploaded soon after the end of the game.
