Tigres UANL’s Rafael Carioca gets ready to mark San Jose Earthquakes Jackson Yueill before a corner kick during a League’s Cup match at Pay Pal Park on Sunday July 30, 2023. (Nico Burgueno/El Show International)

by Marko Ukalovic

It was a learning lesson.

Liga MX’s Tigres UANL needed just one goal to defeat the San Jose Earthquakes 1-0 in both team’s final League’s Cup group stage match on Sunday evening at Pay Pal Park.

San Jose, which did not register a goal in both of its matches, were eliminated from the League’s Cup tournament going 0-2 in the group stage competition. Tigres advanced to the knockout round, along with the Portland Timbers, winning both of its matches.

Tigres, one of the best teams in the Mexican league Liga MX, showcased their talent and skill with an attack that consisted of players Andre-Pierre Gignac, Luis Quiñones and Mexican national team member Diego Lainez.

The team from south of the border also enjoyed a home field advantage despite the match being on the road as the majority of the sold-out crowd were cheering for them throughout the match.

San Jose controlled play in the opening 10 minutes of the match. Miguel Trauco set up Cristian Espinoza in the 11th minute as Espinoza dribbled into the middle of the box, but his shot attempt sailed wide right of the net.

Tigres began to take control of the match in the 15th minute as they gained possession. The eight-time Liga MX champion drew first blood in the 19th minute. Quiñones centered a ball from the right wing over to Fernando Gorriarán who one touched the ball past ‘Quakes goalkeeper Daniel with a low right footed shot.

“I’m really liking this tournament a lot”, said Tigres head coach Róbert Siboldi as his team continues on to the knockout round. “So far, we’ve had some thought and closed games. We’ve seen high intensity matches thus far. I like how MLS teams play, because they give it all on the pitch. They’re always looking to score, attack and make transitions. These Leagues Cup games have been dynamic and entertaining matches for fans. I’m surprised that all these MLS teams have put forward their best players. It’s been a really great competition.”

Tigres kept the Earthquakes on their heels the rest of the first half as they dominated possession 58%-42%.

San Jose, who needed to win by a two-goal margin in order to have advanced to the knockout stage, had chances in the second half but weren’t able to cash in their opportunities and Tigres were patient with counter attacks in the second half.

“I am sad for the guys because I thought our players left everything on the field. I’m really proud of them. I thought we showed some high-level concepts, ideas, play, combinations, and pressing against one of the best teams in Central, North, and South America. It’s disappointing not to get the result here at home in front of our fans, they had amazing energy. It just made it a great environment, a great event. If we keep showing that attitude, personality, that confidence to play, things will bounce our way in our league,” ‘Quakes head coach Luchi Gonzalez said.

Ayo Akinola made his ‘Quakes debut in the 71st minute. Akinola was acquired on loan from Toronto FC this past Tuesday in attempt to inject new life into the ‘Quakes offense that needed a booster shot. He showcased his power when he blasted a shot way up into the stands in the 85th minute.

“Ayo (Akinola) is still needing integration; he’s only trained maybe three times with the group. He’s adapting to San Jose now, that is going to take time so these next few weeks will be really good for him. I think he already showed he’s got some physical qualities in terms of hold up, turning defenders. He’s got power and speed. He’s versatile and he’s young and has a lot of room to still improve. I think he is going be a good addition to our depth in what we need to compete the rest of the season,” Gonzalez said.

The best chance for San Jose to score the equalizer came late in the match at the 88th minute. Espinoza centered a corner kick into the middle of the box and Carlos Akapo’s header was robbed by Tigres goalkeeper Nahuel Guzman with an outstretched one-handed save to the chagrin of the Quakes faithful.

Guzman stopped all four shots on target to earn his first clean sheet of the tournament. Daniel made two saves on four shots on target in the losing effort.

Gonzalez said San Jose will get back to training this week but plans to give the players some extra time off during the month off before their next match. He also hopes to do some team-oriented activities outside the pitch for some team bonding.

GAME NOTES: San Jose finished the match with 10 corner kicks. Tigres UANL had seven.

The Earthquakes faced their first Liga MX team since defeating Cruz Azul 2-0 in an international exhibition held at PayPal Park on Oct. 7, 2021.

UP NEXT: San Jose returns back to MLS action when they visit the Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday 8/20 at 7:30pm at BC Place.