Efraín Juárez defends Pumas – then aims sharp accusation at Cruz Azul: “They have the nerve to go and complain”
The coach defended his team’s display but reignited debate over officiating after a tense opening chapter of the final.
Pumas coach Efraín Juárez, branded controversial after the game, said after the final whistle that Cruz Azul had sought to benefit from the refereeing in the first leg of the final, fueling the debate over the officials’ performance in the series.
The coach explained that these ties are played over 180 minutes and that he knows how to handle them, citing his experience as both a player and a manager. He stressed that at this stage “you win or you lose” and that it is part of professional soccer.
Juárez also defended Pumas’ performance, describing his team as “mature and committed.” He highlighted the collective effort of players such as Jordan, Antuna, the center backs and the rest of the squad, emphasizing that sacrifice “is non-negotiable.”
Juárez’s criticism of the refereeing and Cruz Azul
In a stronger tone, the coach said he was surprised that an institution such as Cruz Azul would try to “take advantage of circumstances,” claiming that they have benefited the most from refereeing decisions in this Liguilla, raising the postgame controversy.
Juárez pointed to several incidents during the tournament, including an uncalled handball in the 30th minute, a penalty in the game against Chivas and another controversial play against América, arguing that similar situations “have not been called in the same way” against their opponents.
He also defended the work of the referees, saying they had performed “spectacularly,” though he criticized TV programs and 45-minute analysis segments devoted to questioning decisions, calling for all plays to be shown in a balanced way.
Juárez gives forceful closing message
Finally, the coach reiterated that there are inconsistencies in refereeing criteria and closed his remarks by saying that “all the circumstances have to be looked at,” insisting that the discussion around officiating must be fairer and more complete for all the teams involved.
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