'It’s not a failure' - Efraín Juárez on Pumas’ elimination against the Whitecaps in CONCACAF Champions Cup

A last-minute goal from Vancouver Whitecaps’ Tristan Blackmon spoiled the celebrations for Pumas at Estadio Olímpico Universitario. The Mexican side had already begun envisioning a semifinal clash with Inter Miami and Lionel Messi, who had just pulled off a dramatic win over LAFC at Chase Stadium.

Pumas, led by head coach Efraín Juárez, took a 2-1 lead in the 88th minute thanks to a goal from Ignacio Pussetto. It seemed like victory was within reach for the Felinos, but Blackmon’s late equalizer sent Vancouver through to the next round via the away goals rule- putting them just one step from the final.

After the match, Juárez said he didn’t view the elimination as a failure, emphasizing the fight his team showed.

“It wasn’t enough; we tried from every angle. I don’t think it’s a failure, not this time, because the team tried, fought, and there’s no reproach. I don’t see it that way; it’s part of the process. It’s a short process of four weeks, and the team has shown another face. We’re missing that ‘spark’ because we’re there, but we need that extra,” he commented.

Pumas and Efraín Juárez suffered another setback, this time in the Champions Cup, after being eliminated by Whitecaps due to a late goal. The Mexican club failed to take advantage of the 1-1 draw they earned last week in the Canadian city, drawing 2-2 at home and being knocked out by the away goals rule. Now, Pumas' only focus is to fight for the Clausura 2025, where they currently sit in 10th place. The capital team has not won a Liga MX title since 2011.

“We have to get back up; the reality is that we didn’t lose this series. It hurts a lot because of the way it happened. You were in a semifinal, and in two minutes, everything went to hell," Juarez said. "I still believe in my team, I still trust them, and understanding that, we’ll prepare for a home game that keeps us alive in the league.”

Pumas must turn the page, as they currently sit in 10th place in the Clausura 2025 standings. At the moment, they are occupying the last spot for the Play-in, so they cannot afford to drop points this weekend when they host FC Juárez on Saturday for Matchday 15.