Mexico: Tigres UANL break Championship curse, topple rival Borregos in historic ONEFA final

In one of the most dramatic finishes in Mexican college football history, the Tigres UANL finally broke their championship curse against archrivals Borregos Salvajes Monterrey, claiming their first-ever ONEFA 14 Major Conference title with a nail-biting 33-30 victory. The win didn’t just end years of heartbreak—it came on Borregos’ home field at Estadio Banorte, snapping their remarkable 33-game unbeaten streak in front of a stunned crowd.

A rivalry rewritten

The two teams had met in seven previous championship games—2001, 2002, 2005, 2008, 2022, 2023, and 2024—with Borregos winning every single one. This eighth meeting carried the weight of history, and Tigres came out with a statement. On the very first play from scrimmage, running back Ángel Alvarado broke loose for a 75-yard touchdown, setting an aggressive tone that would define the game. Though the extra point was missed, the early explosion signaled that this Tigres team was not here to repeat the past.

An offensive shootout

Tigres built their lead on the ground, dominating with a powerful rushing attack that racked up 329 yards. Alvarado wasn’t done after his opening score—he later added a 67-yard touchdown run on his way to a 100+ yard, two-touchdown performance that earned him MVP honors. Eduardo Martínez and Jorge Luis Chaib also punched in scores, keeping Borregos on their heels. But Monterrey refused to go quietly. Quarterback Fernando Sarabia aired it out, throwing for 450 yards and connecting with Alejandro Elizondo on two deep touchdowns (77 and 66 yards) to keep the game within reach.

A finish for the ages

The game came down to the final minute. After Borregos closed the gap to 33-30, they had one last chance to tie with a 56-yard field goal attempt. The kick sailed toward the uprights—and hit the post, bouncing out as time expired. The miss sealed Tigres’ historic victory, ending decades of frustration and cementing their place atop Mexican college football. For UANL, the win wasn’t just about a title—it was about overcoming a rival, breaking a streak, and writing a new chapter in one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries.

Source: Rachid Serrato