Cruz Azul Defeats Necaxa In Thrilling Liga MX Clash

Cruz Azul secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Necaxa in a high-stakes Liga MX match on Sunday, reigniting their playoff hopes. The game, played at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, drew significant attention from U.S. soccer fans due to its late-game theatrics and implications for the league standings.

The match is trending in the U.S. today as Liga MX continues growing in popularity among American viewers. Major networks like TUDN and Fox Sports have increased coverage of Mexican football, attracting bilingual audiences and second-generation fans.

Cruz Azul's Uriel Antuna scored the 89th-minute winner after Necaxa had fought back from a 2-0 deficit. The result moves Cruz Azul into playoff contention while dealing a blow to Necaxa's postseason chances. Social media erupted with reactions to the back-and-forth contest.

This marks Cruz Azul's third straight win under new coach Martín Anselmi, who took over in February. Necaxa manager Eduardo Fentanes faces mounting pressure after his team's fourth consecutive winless match.

The Liga MX Clausura tournament enters its final weeks with several U.S.-based players involved. Cruz Azul's American defender Erik Lira played the full 90 minutes, adding to stateside interest in the matchup.

Mexican football analyst Tom Marshall noted on ESPN FC: "Games like this showcase why Liga MX is gaining traction in the U.S. market. The drama, quality and cultural connections resonate strongly."

With Cruz Azul's large diaspora fanbase in American cities like Los Angeles and Houston, the club's resurgence is drawing particular attention. Their next match against Club América on May 4 is already generating buzz among U.S. viewers.

Necaxa, owned by a group including actor Eva Longoria, has also cultivated American interest through their Hollywood connections. However, their playoff hopes now hang by a thread after Sunday's crushing defeat.

The match drew over 45,000 fans to Estadio Azteca, with thousands more watching on U.S. broadcasts. Liga MX consistently outperforms MLS in American TV ratings, explaining why this clash trended north of the border.

As the playoff race intensifies, Cruz Azul's victory could prove pivotal in their quest for a 10th league title. For Necaxa, time is running out to salvage their season after another heartbreaking loss.