Pumas and Cruz Azul will meet in the final match of the Clausura 2026 with everything to play for. Following a 0-0 draw in the first leg, the Estadio Olímpico Universitario is set to host the decider on Sunday 24 May.
No Advantage for Pumas Despite League Position
Unlike previous phases of the Liguilla, Pumas will not advance or win the championship based on their higher position in the general standings. This criterion was key for them in the quarter-finals and semi-finals, but it does not apply in the final series.
During the Liguilla, Efraín Juárez’s team capitalised on their position as top seed to stay alive in tight series. They eliminated América after tying on aggregate in the quarter-finals. They then repeated the formula against Pachuca in the semi-finals, progressing due to their position in the regular phase after an equal tie.
How the Final Will Be Decided
The final has a different rule. According to Article 21 of the Liga MX regulations, the champion will be the club that scores the most goals on aggregate after the two matches. If the series remains tied after 180 minutes, the title will not be decided based on league position.
In that case, Pumas and Cruz Azul will play two extra time periods of 15 minutes each. This means there would be an additional 30 minutes of play in Ciudad Universitaria to find the new champion of Mexican football.
If the tie persists after extra time, the final will be decided by penalty kicks. Each team will have an initial series of five shots. If the score remains level, the shoot-out will continue until there is a winner.
All to Play For After First Leg Draw
The 0-0 draw in the first leg leaves the scenario wide open. Pumas will have the support of their fans, but not the regulatory benefit that aided them in previous rounds. Cruz Azul, meanwhile, know that any aggregate draw will keep them in the game until extra time or penalties.
The Clausura 2026 final will have no privileges based on league position or room for interpretation. If the teams cannot be separated on the scoreboard, the champion will be decided with extra time and, if necessary, penalty kicks.