"We will come back stronger to surpass what we have achieved so far." - Gabriel Milito

As expected, the second leg between Guadalajara and Cruz Azul in the quarterfinals was extremely even and full of excitement. The Rebaño performed at the level expected of them and gave their all on the pitch, playing aggressively and trying to impose their style; however, the result did not go their way and, despite a great performance at the Olímpico Universitario, Chivas's run in the 2025 Apertura came to an end.

After the Rojiblancos' setback, Gabriel Milito analyzed the team's performance and made it clear that they will work harder for what lies ahead, thinking only of improving on what they have done in the current tournament. The Argentine strategist emphasized that this elimination will not be a blow that stops them, but rather fuel to come back stronger.

Below we share Gabriel Milito's words in full.

"We played a good game, with an unfair result; we had qualification in our hands."

"I think we were better in the tie and today, despite not being on our home turf, we played a great game. That's why it hurts so much, not only because of the elimination, but because of the way it happened."

"I'm proud of the team, proud of how they played and competed. I feel a lot of pain for them, but at the same time a lot of pride."

"The team should have a clear conscience, because they did everything I asked them to do to face this very even and tough tie; they played the way we had to play."

"Of course, the result didn't go our way. In terms of merit and deservingness, I think we played two very good games, especially today's, where they showed tremendous courage, a great collective and individual effort; we attacked every time we could, we were judicious with the ball and created a lot of chances."

"You have to be dignified in victory and also in defeat; that's a phrase I always carry with me. It's not the same to be eliminated without competing as it is to be eliminated as we were today. As a coach, I am very proud of my team and I feel a deep pain for the great effort they made and for the football they showed in the series."

"I think we had a chance to advance, and I truly feel that it would have been fair, but soccer often doesn't understand fairness."

"Therefore, we have to take the blow and prepare for what's next. I am convinced that we are on the right track, and I will continue to try with the same enthusiasm and intentions that I had from day one."

"We all dreamed and hoped to advance. Beyond the tie and our opponent's advantage, we believed that today we could play the game we played: beat them and win. It didn't happen, but I do think the players played very well throughout the game."

"It's not the same to be knocked out after being thrashed and not being up to the task as it is to leave with the feeling that the tie could have gone our way. Beyond the defeat, there are ways to lose. That's why I understand the pain of our fans, not to mention our players, who are very hurt, but also proud to have represented such a great institution with such remarkable dignity."

"I tell our fans to keep believing, that we will continue to fight and give our best to come back stronger in the next tournament and surpass what we have done so far."

"Now it's time to get up and move on; that's what soccer and life are all about. Sometimes there are tough times, but those who give up and resign themselves have no chance. Those who persevere and try again will succeed sooner or later. Obviously, this must be backed up with hard work, dedication, commitment, and values, which this team has and must maintain going forward."

"Now it's time to digest this moment, learn, and grow. All of this serves as experience; it's not just the good things that teach you, but also the hard knocks that make you stronger to try again. That's how soccer is."

"We sought qualification at all times, while respecting our opponents. Over the 180 minutes, I think we were the better team."

"I knew and continue to know that this is a huge institution. From day one, I have felt very supported by the club's sporting project. I am very happy, as are the people around me, to belong to Chivas. We know that here, winning is a requirement, and I am clear about that; looking ahead, we will continue to push forward."