Mazatlán Triumphs Over Atlas in Thrilling Showdown

Drama Unfolds at El Encanto: Mazatlán Rallies to Defeat Atlas 3-2

In a crucial match at Estadio El Encanto, Mazatlán and Atlas engaged in a fierce battle to steer clear of the bottom ranks of the percentage table. Mazatlán emerged victorious with a 3-2 comeback, capitalizing on their numerical advantage throughout nearly the entire second half, outplaying the Rojinegros.

The game kicked off with a bang, as Atlas swiftly netted the opening goal. Djuka set up Eduardo Aguirre in the box, who deftly maneuvered past his marker to strike at the near post, eluding Hugo González’s reach. This initial lead for Atlas at the 17-minute mark came after a VAR check overturned an offside call.

Mazatlán quickly responded with a stunning goal by Nicolás Benedetti. The Colombian midfielder flawlessly executed a free kick, finding the net after bouncing off the post. The home side then completed their turnaround by the 30th minute when Luis Amarilla capitalized on a defensive blunder by Atlas, slotting the ball home.

Showing resilience, Atlas equalized before halftime, courtesy of a VAR intervention. César Ramos reviewed a foul by Eduardo Torres on Djuka within the penalty area, awarding a penalty. The Serbian forward expertly converted to the left in the 36th minute.

The drama escalated early in the second half when Atlas found themselves a man down at the 51st minute. Mateo García was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Jordan Sierra.

Taking full advantage, Mazatlán reclaimed the lead at the 60th minute. Nicolás Benedetti once again pressured the Atlas defense, sending a cross to the far post. Camilo Vargas attempted to deflect, but the ball landed at Salvador Rodríguez’s feet, who effortlessly scored with an open goal.

In the game’s final stages, Atlas pushed forward desperately seeking an equalizer despite their numerical disadvantage. At the 76th minute, Martín Nervo’s attempt was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Hugo González. The Mazatlán captain continued to shine, denying Aldo Rocha in a one-on-one situation after a setup by Djuka at the 81st minute. Atlas’s last significant chance came in the 93rd minute, with a strike from Víctor Ríos that struck the post.

This vital win for Mazatlán reinvigorates their ambitions for a Play-In spot and helps them in the race to escape the bottom of the percentage table. Under Víctor Manuel Vucetich’s leadership, Mazatlán now trails Atlas by 8 points and is just 2 points shy of Puebla, with 12 points still in play in the Clausura 2025.