José Paradela shines with decisive goal as Cruz Azul clinches victory over Juárez in Liga MX showdown News Air Insight

Cruz Azul secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over FC Juárez at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, extending their unbeaten streak to seven matches and solidifying their position atop the Liga MX standings. The match, a captivating opener for Matchday 9 of the 2025 season, showcased a blend of early goals and resilient performances from both teams.

The match commenced with immediate intensity. Luka Romero put Cruz Azul ahead in the 2nd minute, capitalizing on a precise assist from Charly Rodríguez. Juárez responded swiftly; Rodolfo Pizarro equalized in the 14th minute, finishing a well-executed cross from Raymundo Fulgencio. Just five minutes later, Fulgencio himself found the net, volleying home a rebound to give Juárez a 2-1 lead.

Determined to reclaim the advantage, Cruz Azul leveled the score in the 23rd minute. Gabriel Fernández rose above the defense to head in a corner kick, restoring parity. José Paradela then delivered the decisive blow in the 36th minute, converting a pass from Lorenzo Faravelli into a clinical finish, putting Cruz Azul ahead 3-2.

José Paradela emerged as the standout performer. The Argentine forward scored a crucial goal in the 36th minute, helping to restore Cruz Azul’s lead after Juárez had briefly turned the match in their favor. His composed finish in a one-on-one situation demonstrated his clinical edge and technical prowess

Both teams made strategic substitutions in the second half. Cruz Azul introduced Amaury García and Jeremy Márquez, while Juárez brought on Dieter Villalpando and José García. Despite Juárez’s increased pressure, Cruz Azul’s defense, led by Erik Lira and Gonzalo Piovi, held firm.