Cruz Azul and Santos Laguna end the first half even at 0-0, and though some shoddy work at the back from both teams has opened the door, neither side has been able to capitalize. Cruz Azul has enjoyed the better of the play and came very close to scoring with a free-kick from Christian Giménez going just wide of the post. The free kick came after a very soft yellow was given to Santos defender Felipe Baloy.
Cruz Azul Vs. Santos Laguna, CONCACAF Champions League: Scoreless First Half A Display Of Poor Defending, Poorer Attacking
Moments later, Cruz Azul captain Gerardo Torrado was booked for simulation when he went down with very minimal contact in the box after a challenge from Santos keeper Oswaldo Sánchez. While the reaction at Estadio Azul was the less than favorable, replays clearly showed that any contact was minor and likely induced by Torrado.
The majority of the half really was a display of quality midfield play from both teams marred by wasteful play in the final third. There appear to be goals in this game, but to this point it’s been a story of equal parts sloppiness and overly conservative play from the both sides in the attack.
See More:
