Monterrey, N.L., April 12, 2025. The Panthers of the Universidad Panamericana Guadalajara campus reached the national runner-up position after an intense final of the Conadeip soccer tournament. Conadeiptournament, losing 1-0 in overtime to the Borregos Salvajes of Borregos Salvajes of Tecnológico de Monterrey.. In a duel disputed to the limit, the team from Guadalajara demonstrated their grit and high competitive level, remaining at the doorstep of conquering the longed for seventh cup for the Panamerican.
A proud runner-up finish
The match held at Monterrey's Banorte Stadium was a strategic duel between the two teams. Played under a 30-degree temperature, and with the full support of the crowd in the stands in favor of the home team, the Panthers bravely faced their opponent in a great tactical duel.
It was at minute 5 of the second overtime in which a Tec de Monterrey breakaway, which was rejected by Jurado, the Pan American goalkeeper. In that first action, the visiting goalkeeper resisted, but the ball, which was still alive, was taken advantage of by Iker Melendez, who without hesitation converted the goal that would give glory to Tec de Monterrey.
Despite the blow, the Panthers UP Guadalajara showed grit until the last minute, going on the attack and demonstrating why they are one of the most competitive teams in Mexican college soccer.
The rector of the Guadalajara campus of the Universidad Panamericana, Dr. Abraham Mendoza Andradewho was present at the final, highlighted the effort of the Panthers and spoke of the lessons learned from the final.
"I am very happy for the great effort the kids made. To maintain this level for so many years is not easy. This is formative for them and demonstrates the commitment to excellence"said Dr. Abraham Mendoza Andrade. Abraham Mendoza AndradeAbraham Mendoza Andrade, rector of campus Guadalajara, at the end of the meeting.
The first leg: a hopeful draw
The first leg game played on the Guadalajara campus a week earlier showed the combative nature of the home team. With the support of their fans, the Panthers came back from a goal and a missed penalty kick to even the score and keep their aspirations alive.
During that first match, the defense was solid, and the team struggled to gain an advantage that would give them confidence for the second leg of the final.
Road to the rematch: 2025-2026 season
Although the Conadeip Cup did not travel to Guadalajara this time, this runner-up finish reinforces the fighting spirit of the Panthers. Panthersthe Panthers, who are already thinking about the 2025-2026 season with their sights set on the the quest for a historic seventh cup.. This goal has become a symbol of perseverance for the team from Guadalajara, which continues to write its legacy in Mexican university soccer.
The competitive spirit, the discipline and the integral formation that promotes the Universidad Panamericana campus Guadalajara were reflected in every minute played by its students, who are now part of a history that continues to be written.
