Can the Whitecaps do it again? : Vancouver Whitecaps @ Pumas UNAM Pre-Match Thoughts

The Vancouver Whitecaps are aiming to extend their memorable 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup journey. In order for that goal to be reached, the ‘Caps will have to play for a positive result in the second-leg of the quarter-finals against Pumas UNAM.

Vancouver also has to score a goal to potentially advance in the proceedings, a 0-0 draw will send Pumas into the semis. At the same time, a draw 2-2 or above would send the Whitecaps through. A 1-1 draw would grant the game another 30 minutes of extra time, if the scoreline remains tied after the half-hour it will be penalty kicks to decide the outcome of this tie.

Vancouver has played like a MLS contender and seems to be a legitimate threat to be a dark house and muster up upsets. Vancouver's most recent win came with domination on Saturday. At home, playing Colorado the ‘Caps put on a show. Colorado had no dangerous chances, as the Whitecaps’ defence completely contained them. The Whitecaps were able to pull off a convincing 2-0 win battling the Rapids, but in order to dominate in the same way as on Saturday, the ‘Caps would need to place on a truly inspiring performance.

The Whitecaps are fighting another immense battle against a Mexican team. If they want to advance, they will have to achieve a similar performance in the second-leg compared to the second-leg facing Monterrey.

Last outing against the Pumas, Vancouver were the better side. But they weren't able to win, as a late clinical strike from Carrasquilla made it advantage Pumas heading into the return leg. It was a near-identical scenario against Monterrey, Monterrey fielded their “B” team for the first-leg and paid the price in terms of amounts of production but not for result. The scoreline of that first-leg was also 1-1. Now the Whitecaps have done it once against a Mexican giant Monterrey, now they would need to do it once more against Pumas.

Looking into Pumas UNAM, they do have their fair stars on their team, similarly to Monterrey. Albeit, Monterrey did literally have Sergio Ramos at the back. Carrasquilla who scored the equalizer last match, Leonardo Suárez who has had La Liga experience, Pusetto who played in Serie Á, and lots more players which have South American experience.

Leonardo Suárez

However, despite their rich history and firepower, they seem to be not performing up to par in the League. Most recently dropping a 3-2 match versus Cruz Azul and standing in 10th in the Clausura standings, after finishing 4th in the Apertura phase. In Liga MX, Pumas currently has a 5-7-2 record in the Clausura phase.

The way Pumas booked their spot into the quarter-finals were by beating Calvary FC and Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, before having to battle it out against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Pumas were trailing after the first-leg in Round 1 playing Calvary, but they held their own in the second leg and advanced 3-2 on aggregate. The Whitecaps will attempt to use their current bad run of form and potential slip-ups to their advantage in this decisive leg.

However, not all things are on Vancouver’s side for this one. Firstly, they are considered “underdogs” by analysis and experts despite currently being first in MLS. Secondly, the ‘Caps have had a horrific track record against Mexican teams. Their lone win against a Mexican side is against Club Tijuana. This victory happened last season in the group stages of the Leagues Cup, where Vancouver topped the group with the 3-1 win over Tijuana being a reason why. For the long-time Vancouver supporters, they would remember the 2017 CONCACAF Champions League semi-final, where Vancouver got pummeled by Tigres 4-1 on aggregate. It was full of heartbreak, as the ‘Caps nearly reached the finals. Last time averse Monterrey, it was against all odds. This time, some pundits back them, while some are still skeptical of this Vancouver Whitecaps side.

In conclusion, if the Whitecaps perform to the standard they have set themselves to this season, they have a chance. If not, Pumas will run them out of the park and eliminate the ‘Caps from the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Brian White with three goals so far in this competition, looking to add to his tally in this crucial second-leg.