Cruz Azul fight back with two late goals to beat Puebla 2-1
Cruz Azul, the current Liga MX champions, came from behind to beat Puebla 2-1 at the Azteca Stadium in the Apertura 2026. Luka Romero’s 44th-minute header and Christian Ebere’s 82nd-minute finish turned the game around after Fernando Monárrez had put the home side ahead. The Celestial Machine now sits top of the table with six points - three clear of second-placed CF Pachuca.
What happened in the match?
Puebla started brightly and took the lead in the 28th minute. Monárrez struck a powerful left-footed shot from outside the area that beat Colombian goalkeeper Kevin Mier. The goal came after a cross from the right wing that Mier couldn’t hold.
Cruz Azul responded before halftime. Romero equalized in the 44th minute, heading in from a Jeremy Márquez cross. The Azteca crowd roared as the Celestial Machine drew level.
The winner came late. In the 82nd minute, Ebere controlled a through ball from José Antonio Paradela, turned inside, and fired a right-footed shot past Mier. The stadium erupted as the final whistle confirmed the comeback.
Why this win matters for Cruz Azul
This victory underlines Cruz Azul’s strong start to Apertura 2026. The Celestial Machine now has six points from two games - two wins, zero losses - with five goals scored and three conceded (+2 goal difference). They lead CF Pachuca by three points.
Home form is crucial. Cruz Azul has won both of its home games so far this season, showing defensive solidity and the ability to respond in the final minutes. The fans are already celebrating the team’s commanding start.
What’s next for the Celestial Machine?
Cruz Azul plays its third Apertura 2026 match on August 7 at home against Philadelphia Union. The team will aim to maintain its unbeaten record and consolidate its top spot. The rest of the Apertura weekend features fixtures like América vs Atlante and Tigres vs Atlético San Luis.
The Celestial Machine’s fans are already looking ahead. With Amaury Morales still sidelined, the coaching staff is rotating the squad to keep players fresh through the run-in. The machine keeps rolling.
