Mexicas and Osos to clash in historic Tazón México VIII after thrilling semifinals
The Mexicas de CDMX will face the Osos de Monterrey in a championship showdown in the Liga de Futbol Americano Profesional (LFA) title game – Tazón México VIII- following two thrilling semifinals.
The Mexicas of CDMX delivered a commanding performance on both sides of the ball to defeat the Arcángeles de Puebla 43–28, earning their ticket to the championship game.
A defensive clinic in CDMX
Mexicas were powered by a stellar defensive unit that intercepted the ball four times, including two pick-sixes that swung momentum decisively in their favor. The Arcángeles’ offense, led by quarterback Alejandro García, found itself neutralized by a relentless defensive scheme that offered little room for improvisation or balance. Despite García’s individual effort—rushing for one touchdown and throwing for two more—the pressure and hard hits from the Mexicas defense took a toll.
Key defensive standouts for Mexicas included defensive lineman Alberto Madriz, who notched four sacks and disrupted the pocket all game long. Linebacker Colby Campbell who has become the most beloved player on the Mexicas, returned one of the interceptions for a touchdown, while defensive back Brett Rey followed suit with another pick-six, effectively shutting the door on any hopes Puebla had for a comeback.
Wright takes control
On offense, the Mexicas were orchestrated by Jiya Austen Wright, their American quarterback, who continued to show why he’s one of the LFA’s most dynamic dual threats. Wright threw for a touchdown and added two rushing scores, including an electrifying 80-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter that extinguished Puebla’s late momentum.
After that game-breaking run, Wright celebrated with NBA star Stephen Curry’s “night-night” gesture, a jab made even more poetic considering it’s a signature move of Arcángeles head coach Marco Martos, who introduced the gesture to the league during his own playing days.
The win marks Mexicas’ second trip to the Tazón México, the first since their championship run in 2018, and sets the stage for a potentially legacy-defining night in Puebla.
Osos shock Caudillos, end dynasty in Monterrey thriller
In a match straight out of a Hollywood screenplay, the Osos de Monterrey pulled off a dramatic 27–24 comeback victory over the Caudillos de Chihuahua, ending the reign of the two-time defending champions in front of a roaring home crowd at Estadio de Borregos.
Underdogs no more
Heading into the game, few expected the Osos, with their retooled roster and newly balanced offense, to unseat the powerhouse Caudillos. The visitors looked in control through three quarters, taking a 21–7 lead into the final frame. But the fourth quarter belonged entirely to Monterrey.
It began with a trick play: Tristen Wallace ran a successful wildcat formation touchdown to cut into the deficit. Although kicker Jesús Aguirre missed the extra point, the momentum had shifted.
Caudillos briefly regained control with a field goal that extended the lead to 24–13, but Osos quarterback Shelton Eppler, widely regarded as the MVP of Mexican football, wasn’t finished. He launched a 50-yard touchdown pass to Torin Justice, reigniting the crowd and bringing Monterrey within striking distance.
Then, with just four minutes remaining, Brandon Calzoncit bulldozed his way into the end zone for a go-ahead rushing touchdown. Monterrey succeeded on a crucial two-point conversion, setting the score at 27–24 and completing a comeback for the ages.
Former NFL center and team investor Ryan Kalil was present at the game, cheering from the sidelines and celebrating the upset win alongside the team, underlining the growing credibility and appeal of the LFA.
Tazón México VIII: A first-ever matchup for the title
With both semifinals delivering high drama and heroic performances, the stage is now set for Tazón México VIII, where the Mexicas of CDMX will face the Osos of Monterrey in a championship showdown unlike any other.
Match Details:
- 📅 Date: Saturday, July 12
- 🏟 Venue: Estadio Olímpico de la BUAP, Puebla
- ⏰ Kickoff: 7:00 PM local time
This will be the first time both teams meet in a championship game, making it an unprecedented final in LFA history. The Mexicas bring experience and defensive firepower, while Osos enter with momentum, belief, and the hunger of a first-time finalist.
With stars on both sides of the field, passionate fan bases, and the promise of another thriller, Tazón México VIII is shaping up to be a defining moment for professional football in Mexico.
