Santos Laguna Dominates Annapolis Blues in International Club Friendly

Santos Laguna began their pre-season tour of the United States with a commanding 2-0 victory over USL League Two side Annapolis Blues on June 24, 2026, at a packed stadium in Annapolis, Maryland. The Mexican Liga MX side showcased their superior technical quality and tactical discipline, controlling the match from start to finish in this International Club Friendly encounter.

Match Overview

The friendly, which kicked off at 7:00 AM local time, was part of Santos Laguna's preparations for the upcoming Apertura 2026 season. For the Annapolis Blues, it was a valuable opportunity to test themselves against top-tier opposition. Despite the early kick-off, a dedicated crowd turned out to witness the historic meeting between the two clubs.

First Half: Santos Laguna Take Control

Santos Laguna dominated possession from the opening whistle, pressing high and forcing the Annapolis defense into early errors. The visitors' opener came in the 23rd minute when a crisp passing sequence through midfield found striker Javier Correa in space. He calmly slotted the ball past the Blues' goalkeeper to make it 1-0.

The Annapolis Blues struggled to create clear chances, with their lone attempt in the first half coming from a long-range effort that sailed wide. Santos Laguna's midfield, anchored by experienced playmaker Pedro Aquino, dictated the tempo and kept the home side pinned back.

Second Half: Visitors Seal the Win

The second half saw Santos Laguna continue to apply pressure. In the 57th minute, a well-worked corner kick resulted in a header from defender Matías Catalán that doubled the lead to 2-0. Annapolis Blues made several substitutions in an attempt to inject energy, but the Liga MX side's defensive organization remained solid.

Santos Laguna had several other opportunities to extend their lead, hitting the crossbar in the 72nd minute and forcing a sharp save from the Blues' goalkeeper in the 81st. Annapolis seldom threatened the Santos goal, managing only two shots on target throughout the match.

Key Takeaways

• Santos Laguna fitness and sharpness: The Mexican side looked match-ready despite being early in their pre-season schedule, moving the ball quickly and pressing effectively.
• Annapolis Blues resilience: Despite the scoreline, the USL League Two side showed defensive discipline, particularly in the second half, and avoided a heavier defeat.
• Defensive solidity: Santos Laguna's backline, led by Carlos Salcedo, rarely looked troubled and kept a clean sheet.

Match Details

For Annapolis Blues, the match provided invaluable experience against high-level opponents ahead of their USL League Two campaign. Santos Laguna, meanwhile, will take confidence from this clean-sheet victory as they continue their pre-season schedule with upcoming friendlies against other North American sides.