Cruz Azul’s 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup campaign was a resounding confirmation of their status as one of CONCACAF’s elite clubs, culminating in a 5-0 thrashing over Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the final to secure a record-tying seventh continental title. The victory was even sweeter as they matched Club América for the most wins (seven) in tournament history.
At the heart of this success was Vicente Sánchez, the Uruguayan head coach who guided Cruz Azul with a clear tactical vision and calm authority throughout the competition. Sánchez, a former player with Champions Cup pedigree, has also played in Europe and MLS with the Colorado Rapids and Houston Dynamo.
To make their title run even sweeter, they also beat Sanchez’s former team crosstown rivals Club América, with a late Ángel Sepúlveda winner that propelled them into the semi-finals and further underlined their competitive edge.
Midfielder Mateusz Bogusz showcased creativity and vision, linking play and contributing key goals as Cruz Azul outmaneuvered compact defenses. Bogusz’s knack for incisive passing and timely runs added depth to the side’s offensive options.
Complicating matters for the club is the loss of captain Ignacio Rivero, and Argentine midfielder Lorenzo Faravelli. Together, this core combined experience and tactical versatility to produce one of the most dominant performances in recent Champions Cup history.
How they replace these two stalwarts will surely signify how La Máquina will defend their title.