Pumas President Accepts Failure After Final Loss: 'We Owe the Fans'

The Pumas' quest for an eighth league title ended in disappointment as they fell 1-2 to Cruz Azul in the Clausura 2026 final, extending their 15-year championship drought. The loss, particularly at their home stadium, the Olímpico Universitario, marked a significant failure for the club, which had harbored high hopes of breaking their long spell without a title.

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We are indebted to the fans who believed in this team.

Club Universidad Nacional president Luis Raúl González Pérez directly addressed the team's defeat, acknowledging the profound disappointment felt by the players, staff, and the passionate fanbase. "We are indebted to the fans who believed in this team," he stated, recognizing the pain of falling short in a final. He also conveyed that reaching the final, while an accomplishment, is not sufficient for the institution's high standards.

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The pain of yesterday should not prevent recognizing the enormous work that is behind this team.

Despite the sting of defeat, González Pérez urged for perspective, highlighting the substantial effort and commitment that led the team to the final. He expressed gratitude to the coaching staff, led by Efraín Juárez, and the players for their dedication. The president emphasized that "competing is not enough" for Pumas; the ultimate goal is to be champions.

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Reaching a final has merit, but it is not enough; our standard must be different; in this institution, competing is not enough, we want to be champions.

Looking ahead, González Pérez voiced his continued confidence in the current project, specifically backing coach Efraín Juárez. He believes that "continuity is the best way to have more and better opportunities to be champions," signaling a commitment to the team's direction despite the recent setback.

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The best way to have more and better opportunities to be champion is with continuity.