Puebla edged Santos Laguna in a five-goal thriller at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc on 23 August 2026, with the home side claiming a 3-2 victory in what proved to be one of the most entertaining matches of the Liga MX weekend. The win gave Puebla a crucial boost in the Apertura standings and deepened Santos Laguna's early-season frustrations as they continue to search for consistency.

Match overview

From the opening exchanges, both sides made it clear they were prepared to attack. Puebla struck first and looked to be in control, but Santos Laguna responded with characteristic resilience, twice clawing their way back into the contest. Ultimately, it was Puebla's greater composure in the decisive moments that separated the two teams.

Key moments

• Puebla's early breakthrough: The hosts opened the scoring inside the opening half-hour, capitalising on a well-worked move down the right flank.
• Santos Laguna equalise: The visitors levelled before half-time, converting from a set piece to restore parity and quieten the home crowd.
• Puebla regain the lead: A second goal early in the second half put Puebla back in front, with the striker showing sharp instincts inside the box.
• Another twist: Santos Laguna again found an equaliser midway through the half, setting up a tense final 20 minutes.
• Winning goal: Puebla responded immediately, netting what proved to be the winner with a composed finish that capped off a rapid counter-attack.

Tactical story

Puebla set up to press high and force turnovers in midfield, a approach that paid off in transition. Santos Laguna, meanwhile, showed their own quality in possession but were let down by defensive lapses at crucial moments. The away side's inability to hold a lead—or to turn their spells of dominance into the game's deciding goal—was ultimately their undoing.

Standout players

Puebla's attacking unit deserved much of the credit for the win, with the forwards constantly stretching the Santos backline. For Santos Laguna, their two goals were well taken, but it was the lack of defensive organisation that will concern their coaching staff as they review the tape.

What it means

The result gives Puebla three valuable points and a platform to build momentum in the Apertura. Santos Laguna, on the other hand, remain winless on the road and will need to tighten up defensively if they hope to climb the standings. With matches coming thick and fast in Liga MX, both sides know that consistency is the only real currency in the race for the Liguilla.