New York City FC pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over mexican giants Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup Round of 16 at Red Bull Arena, defying the odds and advancing to the quarterfinals. The match, which featured intense back-and-forth action and a combined 31 shots, saw NYCFC capitalize on key moments to overcome the heavily favored Tigres.
The game began with Tigres fielding a surprising lineup, as their star striker, André-Pierre Gignac, started on the bench. Despite the absence of their talisman, Tigres took the lead in the first half through Guido Pizarro, who headed home a goal from a broken set piece in the 17th minute. Nahuel Guzmán, Tigres’goalkeeper, then made a crucial save to keep his team in front in what seemed to be a routine match for the team from Monterrey.
However, NYCFC refused to be intimidated. They responded swiftly when Maxi Moralez, the 37-year-old veteran, pounced on a poor clearance under pressure from the NYCFC front line, calmly slotting the ball past Guzmán to level the match just three minutes after Tigres pulled ahead.
As the second half unfolded, the underdogs began to believe in their chances. Santiago Rodríguez gave NYCFC the lead in the 68th minute with a controversial goal. The play began with an early ball that was quickly robbed by NYCFC, allowing Moralez and Rodríguez to execute a slick give-and-go that left Tigres’ defense scrambling. Rodríguez's finish ignited the NYC faithfuls that traveled to New Jersey to support their team and put NYCFC ahead 2-1.
With over 30 minutes remaining, Tigres pushed hard for an equalizer, and NYCFC’s goalkeeper, Matt Freese, stepped up with several vital saves to preserve his team’s lead. Despite bringing on Gignac late in the game, Tigres couldn’t break down a resolute NYC defense.
The final moments of the match were filled with drama. Tigres’ Nahuel Guzmán resorted to his usual antics, even assisting the medical team in an attempt to save time. Meanwhile, NYCFC’s Tayvon Gray battled through what appeared to be a back injury, staying on the field until the final whistle, when he collapsed in pain.
Tigres’ hopes were dashed when Diego Lainez’s last-ditch attempt to win a penalty was denied, sealing their exit from the Leagues Cup. NYCFC’s victory sent shockwaves through the tournament, eliminating one of the favorites to lift the trophy. Four favorites to lift the Leagues Cup trophy went down at the same time, FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami CF, Cruz Azul and Tigres.
“Today is going to hurt, but we are going to go back home...we are on the right path, we have to continue working, simple as that.” said Veljko Paunović, head coach of Tigres.
With this remarkable comeback win, NYCFC now advances to face the reigning MLS Cup champions, Columbus Crew, at Lower.com Field in the quarterfinals. Both teams will enter the matchup brimming with confidence after their respective come-from-behind victories. The stage is set for another thrilling encounter as the underdogs continue their journey in the Leagues Cup.
“Winning teams are hungry teams...keeping a winning team hungry is the most difficult job in sports.” said Nick Cushing, head coach of NYCFC.
