Mexican club Tigres made history on Wednesday night as they reached their first ever Champions League semi-final after defeating New York City FC 4-0 on aggregate. The team, coached by Ricardo Ferretti, will now face Palmeiras in the semi-final stage of the competition.
The road to the semi-final
Tigres started their Champions League campaign in the round of 16, where they faced Costa Rican side Herediano. They won the first leg 3-0 at home, and then drew 0-0 in the second leg away from home to progress to the quarter-finals.
In the quarter-finals, they faced MLS side New York City FC. The first leg was played in New York, and Tigres came away with a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from French striker André-Pierre Gignac. In the second leg, played in Mexico, Tigres put in a dominant performance, winning 3-0 with goals from Gignac, Chilean midfielder Eduardo Vargas, and Mexican forward Jesús Dueñas.
Tigres’ journey to the semi-final has been impressive, with the team winning five of their six matches and scoring 12 goals while only conceding one. They have been particularly impressive at home, winning all three of their matches at the Estadio Universitario without conceding a goal.
The importance of André-Pierre Gignac
One of the key players in Tigres’ success this season has been André-Pierre Gignac. The 35-year-old French striker has been in excellent form, scoring six goals in six Champions League matches and leading the team’s attack.
Gignac joined Tigres in 2015 and has since become a club legend. He has scored over 150 goals for the team in all competitions and has won four Liga MX titles with the club. He is also the club’s all-time leading scorer in the Champions League.
Gignac’s experience and leadership have been crucial for Tigres, both on and off the pitch. He has been a key player in the team’s attacking play. And his goals have been instrumental in securing their victories. He is also a respected figure in the dressing room.And his influence has helped to keep the team focused and motivated throughout their Champions League campaign.
The impact of coach Ricardo Ferretti
Another important factor in Tigres’ success has been the leadership of their coach, Ricardo Ferretti. Ferretti, who is known as “Tuca”, has been in charge of the team since 2010. And has led them to four Liga MX titles and one Copa MX title.
Ferretti is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in Mexican football history
.And his experience and tactical nous have been crucial in Tigres’ Champions League campaign. He has been able to adapt his tactics to suit the team’s opponents, and his game management has been excellent.
Ferretti’s man-management skills have also been important for Tigres. He has been able to motivate his players and keep them focused on the task at hand. Despite the challenges of playing in a condensed and demanding schedule.
The challenge of Palmeiras
Tigres’ next challenge will be facing Palmeiras in the semi-final stage of the Champions League. Palmeiras, who won the competition last season are a formidable opponent.
Tigres will need to be at their best to progress to the final.
Palmeiras have been in good form in the Champions League this season. Winning four of their six matches and scoring 15 goals. They have a strong attacking unit, led by Brazilian forward Luiz Adriano. And their defence has been solid, conceding only four goals in six matches.
