In a thrilling encounter at Estadio Corregidora, Querétaro faced off against Atlas in a crucial Liga MX match on April 16, 2025. The game, part of Jornada 16 of the Clausura 2025 tournament, ended with Atlas securing a 2-1 victory, leaving Querétaro's hopes for a playoff spot hanging by a thread.
The match kicked off at 9:00 PM local time, with both teams eager to secure vital points. Atlas, coming off a disappointing run, was determined to turn their fortunes around. They struck first in the 37th minute when Carlos Orrantia unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, finding the top left corner of the net. This goal sent the Atlas fans into a frenzy as they celebrated the opening score, with Orrantia showcasing his striking prowess.
Querétaro, however, was not to be outdone. The home side responded with vigor, and in the 83rd minute, Adonis Preciado leveled the score. Preciado received a corner kick from Kevin Escamilla, and with a left-footed shot from a tight angle, he curled the ball into the top left corner, sending the home crowd into raptures. This goal was a testament to Querétaro's resilience as they fought to keep their playoff hopes alive.
As the match approached its climax, it was Atlas who would have the final say. In the dying moments of the game, specifically in the 90+2 minute, Uros Djurdjevic was awarded a penalty after being fouled in the area. Djurdjevic stepped up and coolly converted the penalty, shooting low to the left side, past the outstretched arms of Querétaro's goalkeeper, Jorge Hernández. This late goal sealed the win for Atlas, giving them a much-needed boost in their fight to avoid relegation.
Throughout the match, the referee, Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava, was kept busy, issuing several yellow cards. Jaime Gómez of Querétaro received a yellow card for dangerous play, while Kevin Escamilla also found himself in the book for a similar offense. Atlas's Eduardo Aguirre and Matheus Dória were both cautioned as well, highlighting the intensity of the match.
The game was characterized by numerous chances for both teams. Querétaro's Ronaldo Cisneros had a header blocked in the second half, and several other attempts were thwarted by Atlas's defense. Meanwhile, Atlas's Uros Djurdjevic himself had a couple of near misses, showing that both teams were eager to find the back of the net.
As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read Querétaro 1, Atlas 2. This result leaves Querétaro in a precarious position, sitting in 13th place with 17 points, while Atlas climbs to 15th with 14 points. The match showcased the fierce competition in Liga MX, as both teams continue to vie for better standings in the league.
Looking ahead, Querétaro's next challenge will be against FC Juárez on April 19, where they will need to secure a victory to keep their playoff aspirations alive. Atlas, on the other hand, will face Chivas on the same day, hoping to build on this crucial win.
In conclusion, this match highlighted the unpredictable nature of Liga MX, where fortunes can change in an instant. With both teams battling for their respective goals, the excitement of Mexican football continues to deliver thrilling moments for fans.