Atlas’ Victory
Cruz Azul fell again to Atlas with a 0-2 score at Banorte Stadium, marking its third consecutive defeat in Liga MX and the fourth since Joel Huiqui took charge. Atlas’ goal came in the 30th minute when Édgar Zaldívar capitalised on a Duk assist to open the score. Cruz Azul tried to respond and created danger in the red‑shirt area, but failed to convert its chances.
Atlas’ Second Goal
When it seemed the Machine could leave the break with a minimal deficit, Florián Monzón appeared at the 45th minute to score his first Liga MX goal against Cruz Azul and set the score to 0-2. Atlas found in Luis de Barros one of its main protagonists of the first half, as the player recorded two assists, first for Zaldívar and then for Monzón.
Controversy and Substitutions
In the second half, controversy arose when Luis Estevez was close to receiving a red card. The referee reviewed the play on VAR and ultimately reversed the dismissal, issuing only a yellow card.
Joel Huiqui shuffled his pieces in search of a reaction. The Celeste coach sent Rogelio González onto the field, who made his Liga MX debut with Cruz Azul, and also gave minutes to Gabriel Fernández in an attempt to increase offensive presence.
Lack of Response
However, the reaction never arrived. The Machine had some approaches, but Atlas’ defense closed the spaces. One of the clearest was a cross shot from Agustín Palavecino, which ended up being diverted by the red‑shirt back line.
Cruz Azul remained unresponsive and sealed another defeat that further complicates its outlook. The celests are losing important points in this round and are starting to drift further away from Liguilla spots.
