The Mexican giants haunted by their own penalty spot

In football, the penalty is almost a promise – a duel of nerves between kicker and goalkeeper, the moment when a team’s faith narrows down to a single foot. YetPumas have turned that promise into a zone of uncertainty.This semester, four different takers have lost their aim from the spot. Three attempts, no conviction.

Adalberto Carrasquilla vs Atlanta United (August 2, 2025, Leagues Cup)

At the 85th minute against Atlanta United on August 2, 2025, Adalberto Carrasquilla stepped up for what looked like a decisive penalty in the Leagues Cup. He missed – but fortune smiled on him. He chased the rebound and scored the winning 3-2 goal. That act of redemption, though, hid something deeper: even heroes can’t escape the penalty trauma.

Aaron Ramsey vs Tigres (September 20, 2025, Apertura 2025, Matchday 9)

Then came Aaron Ramsey’s turn on September 20, in Matchday 9 of the Apertura. A handball by Juan Sánchez Purata was confirmed by VAR, giving Pumas a golden chance at the Olímpico Universitario. Ramsey sent Nahuel Guzmán the wrong way but also sent his shot wide. The game ended without Pumas capitalizing on their clearest opportunity.

Álvaro Angulo vs Chivas (October 5, 2025, Matchday 12, Liga MX)

Two weeks later, Álvaro Angulo had the ball and the weight of the stadium on his shoulders. Against Chivas on October 5, a stoppage-time penalty could have meant a draw. He struck the crossbar. Guadalajara sealed a 2-1 win, and Pumas’ doubts deepened once again.

Every one of these moments – Carrasquilla, Ramsey, Angulo – carries the same pulse: the faith placed in the chosen taker and the expectation that this act will bring justice. But inconsistency takes a toll. It’s not just about missing; it’s that the penalty, once a lifeline, has become a danger zone.

Each miss feels like a fresh wound. No kicker repeats; pressure shifts to whoever dares next. Coaches haven’t found a remedy, and the fans, roaring from the stands, are left watching how the spot that should guarantee salvation now breeds anxiety instead.

Pumas lack a clear psychology of execution – no routine, no defined leader from the spot, no mental strategy. That uncertainty costs points: against Chivas, a lost draw; against Tigres, a wasted surge; against Atlanta, a near disaster turned miracle.

The season moves on, and the league doesn’t wait. Missed penalties are no longer isolated incidents – they’re part of a countdown demanding answers. Pumas must decide whether to let the penalty spot keep eroding their confidence or reclaim the conviction they’ve lost.

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