Santos Laguna Edges Out Guadalajara: Matchday 4 Drama in Liga MX
Chivas Fall Short in Tight Battle Against Resilient Santos
In a highly anticipated Matchday 4 clash of the Liga MX Apertura 2025, Santos Laguna defeated Guadalajara (Chivas) 1–0 at Estadio TSM Corona. The game was decided by a Bruno Barticciotto penalty after a foul on Ramiro Sordo. Despite dominating possession and creating several opportunities, Chivas failed to convert—most notably missing a penalty of their own, taken by Alan Pulido and saved brilliantly by Santos’ keeper Carlos Acevedo.
Santos held their lead even after being reduced to 10 men when Haret Ortega received a red card in stoppage time. The win boosts Santos into the top 5 of the league standings, while Chivas’ return to Apertura 2025 action ends in frustration and disappointment.
Match Overview: Stats and Moments
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Santos Laguna 1–0 Guadalajara |
| Goal Scorer | Bruno Barticciotto (Penalty) |
| Crucial Miss | Alan Pulido's missed penalty (saved) |
| Key Performer | Carlos Acevedo (GK) – multiple saves, penalty stop |
| Game-Changing Event | Red card for Haret Ortega in stoppage time |
| Standings Impact | Santos up to 5th place; Chivas fall mid-table |
What This Result Means for Both Sides
Santos Laguna: A Statement of Grit and Growth
This result is more than just three points for Santos. Their ability to convert their big chance, defend intelligently, and hold on with 10 men speaks to a growing maturity under pressure. Barticciotto's calmness from the spot and Acevedo’s heroics between the posts showed leadership on both ends of the pitch.
Guadalajara: Wasteful and Worrying Signs
Despite creating more and having more of the ball, Chivas left Torreón empty-handed. Alan Pulido’s missed penalty highlighted their inefficiency, and manager Gabriel Milito must now address both composure and clinical finishing as the team drops valuable points early in the campaign.
Major Takeaways from Santos vs. Chivas
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Santos capitalized on limited chances while Chivas wasted theirs.
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Carlos Acevedo’s goalkeeping was the difference-maker.
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Discipline will be crucial for Santos, who lost a man late.
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Chivas lacked killer instinct—a worrying trend for title hopes.
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Momentum shifts in Liga MX with Santos rising and Chivas slipping.
Final Thoughts: Santos Strike First, Chivas Left Regrouping
The latest chapter in the Santos vs. Guadalajara rivalry delivered tension, controversy, and tactical lessons. Santos walked away with the victory, buoyed by a clutch performance from their goalkeeper and smart execution of a key moment. Guadalajara’s return to action, on the other hand, raised questions rather than delivering answers.
Both teams have plenty to play for as the Apertura 2025 continues, but only one will feel they made a step forward this weekend. For Chivas, it's back to the drawing board.
