Querétaro Inches Closer to Play-In Spot with Victory Over Santos

Querétaro bolstered their Play-In aspirations by defeating Santos 2-1, moving within a single point of Pumas, who currently hold the last spot for the final phase. Meanwhile, Santos continued their downward spiral as they suffered another home loss, their 12th defeat in the Clausura 2025. Querétaro showed resilience, coming from behind to snatch the victory, positioning themselves tantalizingly close to Play-In qualification. Starting on the back foot, Querétaro capitalized on Santos’ weaknesses and frustrations, clearly evident with their latest setback.

Santos, desperate for points to escape the league’s lower echelons, found some solace in breaking the deadlock. Ramiro Sordo found the net with a well-placed volley inside the area, temporarily boosting the Guerreros’ morale. Santos pressed hard and crafted a few chances to extend their lead, but Querétaro’s goalkeeper and the woodwork denied their efforts. By halftime, Santos seemed in control, but the 15-minute break proved rejuvenating for Querétaro.

Entering the second half revitalized, Querétaro swiftly leveled the score. Pablo Barrera’s netted the equalizer within just a minute of play, marking a shift in dynamics. From then on, Querétaro took the offensive, consistently pressuring Santos, whose defenses faltered under mounting fatigue and frustration. The persistent pressure paid off as, in the game’s dying moments, Franco Russo headed in the winning goal. Barrera delivered an inch-perfect cross from a set-piece, which Russo expertly directed into the far corner.

Eager to secure a spot in the next stage, Querétaro now faces crucial encounters against Atlas and Bravos de Juárez, competing for the coveted final playoff berth. In contrast, Santos prepares to face CU and will close out a dismal season with a match against Tijuana at home, eager to end their campaign on a more positive note.