Paunovic Aims to Maintain Dominance as Tigres Face Cruz Azul

MÉXICO — Tigres UANL manager Veljko Paunovic faces a significant challenge this weekend as his team prepares to host Cruz Azul at Estadio Universitario, a venue where he has yet to experience defeat. If successful, Paunovic would mark his first victory over the Celestes within this arena.

Since taking charge of Tigres, Paunovic has overseen 12 matches at Estadio Universitario, achieving a remarkable record of six wins and two draws, with no losses. His tenure began during the Torneo Apertura 2024 season, where Tigres claimed victories against notable teams such as Necaxa, América, and Toluca. However, he also encountered two draws against Chivas and León during that period.

In the postseason of the same tournament, Tigres faced Atlético de San Luis in the quarterfinals at Estadio Universitario, concluding the match in a goalless draw. Yet, San Luis advanced to the semifinals based on aggregate performance.

Continuing his strong performance, Paunovic’s squad has made an impressive start in the Torneo Clausura 2025, winning all three of their home matches thus far against Mazatlán, Xolos, and Atlas. This weekend, they will seek to extend their winning streak against Cruz Azul in the seventh round.

Cruz Azul, meanwhile, comes into this match seeking to reverse their fortunes at Estadio Universitario, where they have historically fared well against Tigres. Over the past decade, they have played 12 matches at this venue, with a record of five wins, six draws, and only one loss, which occurred during the Torneo Apertura 2023, finishing 2-1 in favor of Tigres.

Currently, Tigres sit in third place in the Clausura 2025 standings with 13 points, while Cruz Azul trails close behind in fourth place with 11 points. Both teams are striving to secure vital points as they chase top positions in the league, setting the stage for an exciting encounter.