In a thrilling first leg of the Clausura 2026 Quarterfinals, Club America clawed back from a 3-1 deficit to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw against Pumas. The result keeps Pumas in the driver’s seat, but America will have everything to play for when they host the second leg at Estadio Olimpico next week—a win there would send them through to the Semifinals.
The match was packed with action, drama, and a few controversial moments from the opening whistle. America was dealt an early blow when Brian Rodriguez, initially named in the starting XI, was forced out of the warm-ups due to injury. Pumas, meanwhile, fielded a dangerous attacking trio of Uriel Antuna, Robert Morales, and Juninho.
Pumas struck first, capitalizing on a sloppy America pass in midfield. The ball found Jordan Carrillo, who slipped a pass to Juninho just outside the box. The forward unleashed a right-footed shot that beat America goalkeeper Rodolfo Cota, giving the visitors a shock 1-0 lead.
America responded quickly. After a counterattack saw Carrillo fire wide from distance, the hosts found their equalizer through a slick combination play. Patricio Salas set up Isaias Violante, who calmly slotted a left-footed shot past Keylor Navas to make it 1-1.
The game opened up, with both teams creating chances. Alejandro Zendejas headed wide from a cross and later rattled the post with a powerful right-footed strike from outside the area. Kevin Alvarez also tested Navas with a pair of long-range efforts, while Adalberto Carrasquilla forced a save from Cota at the other end.
America nearly took the lead when a defensive clearance fell to Cristian Borja, but the defender completely whiffed on his left-footed shot. That miss proved costly. Just before halftime, Carrillo fired a right-footed shot that Cota could only parry weakly, leaving Uriel Antuna to pounce on the rebound and slot home for a 2-1 Pumas lead. The goal was not without controversy, as replays showed Rodrigo Lopez may have fouled an America player in the buildup, but the referee allowed play to continue.
Pumas extended their lead early in the second half, making it 3-1 and putting America on the ropes. But the home side showed incredible resilience, scoring twice to level the match at 3-3 and keep their semifinal hopes alive. The comeback sets up a decisive second leg, where America will need to win at home to advance.
For fans heading to the stadium or watching from home, this is the kind of edge-of-your-seat football that makes the Clausura playoffs unforgettable. Whether you’re cheering on America or Pumas, make sure you’re geared up in the latest kits and training wear to show your support for the big match ahead.