Analysis The numbers behind the result
Cruz Azul's superior shot quality justifies late comeback
Despite trailing 2-0 early in the second half, Cruz Azul's 3-2 victory was statistically warranted, with their 3.07 xG dwarfing Atletico San Luis's 1.28. The visitors' higher shot quality (13 of 19 attempts inside the box) and efficiency (9 on target vs San Luis's 5) proved decisive after tactical substitutions reshaped the game. Rodrigo Llorente's 50th-minute strike (assisted by Leonardo Flores) had seemingly put San Luis in control, but Cruz Azul's triple change on 56 minutes triggered a dominant final half-hour.
Juan Marquez was the match-winner with two late goals (81', 90+3'), both originating from wide areas — first assisted by Lorenzo Romero, then Carlos Rodriguez. Cruz Azul's 55% possession translated into superior chance creation (19 shots to 12), while both sides were level on corners (4 each). The key differential was Cruz Azul converting 3 of their 4 big chances (as per xG overperformance), contrasted with San Luis goalkeeper Andrés Sánchez conceding 3 from an xGOT of just 1.84.