Pumas UNAM secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Atlanta United in CONCACAF Champions Cup action, with Adalberto Carrasquilla providing the decisive moment in a match that lived up to its billing.
The Mexican side took an early lead through Álvaro Angulo's 23rd-minute penalty, but Atlanta responded before halftime with an own goal from Keylor Navas and Emmanuel Latte Lath's clinical finish to lead 2-1 at the break.
Carrasquilla leveled the score in the 62nd minute with a well-placed shot to the top left corner, setting up a tense finale. The drama peaked late in the match when Pumas were awarded a penalty in the 86th minute. Carrasquilla's initial spot kick was saved by Brad Guzan, but the Panamanian midfielder was quickest to the rebound, slotting home the winner in the 89th minute.
The final twist came moments later when Keylor Navas received a red card in the 90th minute plus five minutes of stoppage time, creating a significant challenge for manager Efraín Juárez heading into the Inter Miami clash.
The veteran goalkeeper's suspension means 17-year-old Rodrigo Parra will likely get his first major test between the posts. The young goalkeeper has shown promise in training sessions, but facing Miami's attacking threats will represent a considerable step up in competition.
The victory was built on efficiency in front of goal, with Pumas converting six of their 12 shot attempts compared to Atlanta's three from seven. Both teams committed similar numbers of fouls, though Atlanta picked up four yellow cards to Pumas' two.
Pumas now sit level on five points as they prepare for their next challenge against Inter Miami. With Lionel Messi sidelined through injury, the Mexican side will face a Miami team still boasting considerable talent in Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Rodrigo De Paul – experienced players who will likely test the young goalkeeper early and often.
The result keeps Pumas' continental campaign on track, though Juárez will need his defense to provide extra protection for his teenage shot-stopper in what promises to be a demanding away fixture.
