Pumas UNAM vs Cruz Azul: Six-Goal Thriller Ends 3-3 as Keylor Navas Stands Tall
In a match that had everything—six goals, a comeback, a red card, and a late equalizer—Pumas UNAM and Cruz Azul played out a dramatic 3-3 draw at Estadio Olímpico Universitario on Matchday 11 of the Liga MX Apertura 2026. The result leaves both sides with a share of the points, but neither can claim full control of the narrative. With playoff positioning tightening, the stalemate feels like a missed opportunity for both.nnPumas, under coach Esteban Solari, lined up in a 4-4-2 formation with Keylor Navas in goal, protected by a backline of Rodrigo López, Rubén Duarte, Nathan Silva, and Pablo Bennevendo. The midfield featured Uriel Antuna, Adalberto Carrasquilla, Pedro Vite, and César Huerta, while Robert Morales and Juninho led the attack. Cruz Azul, meanwhile, looked to exploit spaces and tested Navas early and often. The veteran goalkeeper was called into action multiple times, denying Gabriel Fernández twice in the first half (28′ and 45′) and then producing crucial saves on Luka Romero (43′) and Juan Calero (45′) in the second half to preserve the draw.nnThe game swung back and forth, with Cruz Azul twice taking the lead, only for Pumas to respond. A one-man advantage for the visitors after a Pumas red card seemed to tilt the scales, but the hosts showed resilience. Keylor Navas made key late saves as the hosts held on for the draw, proving why his experience is invaluable. The six-goal spectacle left fans breathless, but the defensive frailties on both sides were evident.nnWith the draw, both teams add a single point to their tally, doing little to separate themselves in the congested Apertura table. For Pumas, the inability to hold a lead at home raises questions, while Cruz Azul will rue missed chances to claim all three points. As the season progresses, this match may be remembered as a turning point—or a missed chance. One thing is certain: neither side left with full control of the story, and the
Shimanta Das 
