The analysis of Chivas’ draw against Cruz Azul in the first leg of the Semifinals | OneFootball

Guadalajara left the Rojiblanca Capital with positive feelings after drawing 2-2 against Cruz Azul in the first leg of the Clausura 2026 Semifinals. Beyond the result itself, Gabriel Milito’s side once again showed personality, aggression and an impressive ability to adjust tactically throughout the match.

From the opening whistle, Chivas made it clear they were not going to sit back. The team pressed high, looked to disrupt Cruz Azul’s buildup and approached the game with intensity against an opponent with a very defined system and plenty of quality players.

Milito once again introduced several tweaks compared to what was seen against Tigres. ‘Oso’ González started as the left center-back with the task of closely tracking José Paradela, while Efraín Álvarez partnered Omar Govea in midfield. Further ahead, Santiago Sandoval once again operated behind the two forwards, a role in which he would become decisive.

And it was Sandoval himself who opened the scoring. Guadalajara broke Cruz Azul’s pressure with a strong sequence through the middle and, after Ricardo Marín’s shot forced a rebound from Kevin Mier, the young attacking midfielder reacted quickly to push the ball into the net and score his third goal of the current playoff run.

Cruz Azul responded and equalized before halftime through a quick transition, but in the second half Chivas once again found answers through tactical adjustments.

Miguel Gómez’s introduction in place of Efraín Álvarez changed the structure of the team. ‘Cotorro’ González returned to the left center-back position, Miguel Gómez took over the wing and ‘Oso’ moved back alongside Govea in midfield. That adjustment completely changed Guadalajara’s attacking dynamic.

The response was immediate. Gómez used his inverted profile to cut inside and deliver a great cross to the far post, where Ángel Sepúlveda produced an outstanding finish to restore Chivas’ lead.

However, a controversial penalty allowed Cruz Azul to level the match once again. Even so, Chivas closed the game well and created dangerous chances that could have resulted in a third goal.

The biggest takeaway from the night was once again Gabriel Milito’s adaptability. Without making many personnel changes, the coach adjusted roles and collective behaviors to compete in a match that was completely different from the one his side experienced against Tigres.

Now, Guadalajara will head to Estadio Jalisco holding a slight advantage, as any aggregate draw would send them through to the Liga MX Final. Even so, based on what they showed in the first leg, the Rebaño will surely look to win the series in front of their home crowd.

The 3 standout performers of the match

Diego CampilloThe Chivas center-back once again delivered a very solid performance. He dominated several duels against Osinachi Ebere, covered space effectively and remained strong in interceptions and clearances. Once again, he was a key piece in holding together the defensive line.

Ricardo MarínEven though the match demanded a huge physical effort, Marín once again contributed with his hold-up play and aerial duels. He won important balls, extended attacking sequences and played a direct role in the opening goal with the shot that led to Sandoval’s rebound finish.

Richard LedezmaThe right wing-back once again proved extremely difficult to contain. He constantly drifted inside, found pockets of space and initiated the play that led to Chivas’ second goal with a brilliant switch of play toward Miguel Gómez. He also delivered several positive moments in one-on-one duels and short combinations.