'Scar that reminds us who we are' - Nicolás Larcamón on Cruz Azul’s uphill climb in Leagues Cup after narrow win over LA Galxay

Cruz Azul responded to a disastrous 7-0 defeat against the Seattle Sounders with a narrow penalty shootout win over LA Galaxy - their first sign of life in what’s been a turbulent Leagues Cup. After a 1-1 draw in regulation, La Máquina held their nerve in the shootout, winning 8-7 to earn two points.

The result doesn't guarantee survival, but it keeps a faint hope alive heading into their final group-stage clash with Colorado Rapids. Head coach Nicolás Larcamón acknowledged the emotional weight his team is carrying after such a rough start.

“It was a crucial test for all of us… hopefully, it becomes a scar that reminds us who we are and who we need to be. Inside the group, it felt like a very positive step,” he said.

While their position remains fragile, Larcamón emphasized the resilience shown by his players.

“We turned adversity into an opportunity," he said. I owe a lot to the fans - and I’m determined to repay that. Thanks to the strength of this group, I believe we’re on the right path. Hopefully, by the end of this tournament, that debt will be settled.”

Cruz Azul could go down as the biggest disappointment of the Leagues Cup if they fail to reach the quarterfinals - a scenario that is no longer in their hands. The 7-0 thrashing by the Seattle Sounders, followed by earning just two points against LA Galaxy, has left La Máquina on the brink.

Larcamón will now be under intense scrutiny. His appointment was already controversial, having replaced Vicente Sánchez shortly after the Uruguayan led the team to a Champions Cup title. At the time, Larcamón and Cruz Azul were reportedly already in advanced talks, a move many within the fanbase viewed as disloyal toward Sánchez.

Despite the blowout loss and tepid follow-up, the Argentine manager remained focused on the long-term project and the bond within the squad.

“Life often throws challenges at you in unexpected ways," he said. "My players have shown real character, and I want to publicly thank them for that."

Larcamón highlighted how the response to the Seattle game began off the field.

“We did a lot of internal work - focused on who we are, how we relate to one another," he said. "Now it’s time to translate that into action, to show it with results. Especially for the fans, who are the ones we truly owe.”

The Celestes will face Colorado Thursday at Dignity Health Sports Park.