Santos and Veracruz fought to a 1-1 draw in the afternoon sun in Torreón. Santos goalkeeper Jonathan Orozco put on a show, a perfect outing marred by one brilliant moment from Tiburones Rojos’ Cristian “Polaco” Menéndez.
For Santos, midfielder José Juan “Gallito” Vázquez was held out as a precaution, citing “aggravation in his Pectineus muscle (left hip).” Ulises Rivas would get the start in Gallito’s place for Los Guerreros.
It was Veracruz that established a rhythm and flow early on, pressuring Santos and earning several corner kicks. Jonathan Orozco would make a couple of fantastic saves on a couple of breakaway opportunities, keeping the visitors off of the board.