Toluca vs Tijuana: Paulinho Gives Narrow Win

 

Toluca vs Tijuana: Paulinho Gives Narrow Win

Toluca vs Tijuana ends 1-0 as Paulinho scores the decisive goal. Toluca FC celebrates anniversary with crucial Liga MX victory.

Last night in Liga MX, the spotlight was firmly on Toluca vs Tijuana, and it turned out to be a night full of tension, celebration, and just one decisive moment.

At the iconic Estadio Nemesio Diez, the reigning Liga MX champions, Deportivo Toluca F.C., marked their 109th anniversary with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Club Tijuana. It wasn’t the most explosive match of the season, but for Toluca fans, it felt deeply meaningful.

The only goal of the night came early. In the 21st minute, Portuguese striker Paulinho found the net after a sharp move down the left side by Marcel Ruíz. It was a precise finish — calm, controlled, and exactly what Toluca needed at that moment. That goal would ultimately decide the outcome of Toluca vs Tijuana, even though there was plenty of drama still to come.

Toluca entered the match without key attacking players Alexis Vega and Nicolás Castro. You could feel the difference. The usual attacking rhythm wasn’t fully there. However, when the team needed someone to step up, Paulinho answered. Interestingly, he had two more goals later in the match, but both were ruled out for offside. For a few seconds each time, the stadium erupted — only to fall silent when the referee’s decision came through.

Meanwhile, Tijuana — often referred to as Xolos — kept pushing. They waited patiently for their chance. In the final minutes, Kevin Castañeda tried his luck from outside the box, a powerful long-range shot in the 90th minute that could have changed everything. But Toluca’s defense held firm.

For Toluca FC, this win was more than just three points. It was their first victory since Matchday 2, and it brought them back into the race near the top of the table. After a slow stretch, the timing couldn’t have been better — especially on the week of their anniversary celebration.

Before kickoff, the stadium displayed a massive tribute honoring club owner Valentín Diez, highlighting the team’s recent back-to-back championships and its long history. Fans created a vibrant atmosphere, and many on social media later said the emotional energy in the stands clearly pushed the team forward.

There were other important storylines too. Luan made his return after dealing with a serious adductor tendon injury and hernia surgery. His comeback gives Toluca added depth for the rest of the tournament. Meanwhile, new signing Jorge Díaz Priece was given a starting opportunity. Although he didn’t score, he showed flashes that suggest he could become an important piece moving forward.

As the dust settles from Toluca vs Tijuana, Toluca now prepares to visit Necaxa in their next fixture, hoping to build momentum. Tijuana, on the other hand, will host Mazatlán, looking to bounce back quickly.

For now, Toluca fans are celebrating — not just an anniversary, but a timely victory. And with Paulinho rediscovering his scoring touch, the season suddenly feels alive again.