Veracruz’s world-record winless streak has finally come to an end. After 41 games without a victory, spanning more than a calendar year, Veracruz beat Puebla 1-0 on Tuesday night. The result makes it three losses in a row for the Poblanos, who remain winless in four.

Facing another struggling team, Veracruz came out attacking in a game they surely saw as their best chance to end their streak. But after an early burst of activity with chances at both ends, the pace of the game slowed considerably.

The second half also started with early chances – and this time, Veracruz made one count. In the 48th minute, Colin Kazim-Richards brought down a cross from Luis Lozoya and buried it to give the Tiburones Rojos the 1-0 lead.

Puebla looked for a response, but they were unable to find one, with the usually reliable Lucas Cavallini unable to produce an equalizer.

Veracruz’s nerves grew as the game wore on – more than once this season they’ve had a late lead, only to capitulate in stoppage time – and despite opportunities, they were unable to find an insurance goal, with Kazim-Richards missing a notable backheel late on.

But in the end the Tiburones withstood Puebla’s late onslaught (with even goalkeeper Nicolás Vikonis coming forward) to earn a historic victory – their first in league play since August 25, 2018.

With the 1-0 win, Veracruz reaches seven points while Puebla still has 13.

Highlights