Santos Laguna finally broke their dismal streak of 16 matches without a win as they triumphed 2-0 over Atlas FC on February 23, 2025. This victory, their first since September 2024, allows them to gain momentum and move off the bottom of the Liga MX standings, all thanks to Bruno Barticciotto's impressive double.
The match, held at Estadio TSM Corona, saw Santos determined to claim the much-needed victory as they faced off against Atlas, who were seeking redemption following their heavy defeat to Necaxa the previous week. Santos went out with strength from the first whistle, and within the first fifteen minutes, Santiago Muñoz nearly put them on the board with a shot hitting the crossbar.
By the 20th minute, Barticciotto took advantage of the hosts' pressure, scoring the opening goal with a precise header from Javier Abella's corner kick. This moment seemed to signal the beginning of the end for Atlas, who struggled to respond effectively. They found themselves lucky not to concede again when Cristian Dájome's potential second goal for Santos was overturned by VAR due to handball—an unfortunate break for the home side.
Atlas attempted to rally, with forward Uros Djurdjevic and midfielder Paulo Ramírez seeking opportunities to equalize, but both found Santos's defense, led by goalkeeper Carlos Acevedo, resolute and unyielding. The first half ended with Santos holding onto their 1-0 lead, yet Atlas players were displaying frustration as they grappled with Santos's fortifications.
After halftime, Atlas came back with renewed vigor, chasing the elusive equalizer. Coach Gonzalo Pineda made tactical adjustments to introduce more attacking players, hoping to shift the match's momentum. Yet, Santos remained firm, utilizing counter-attack strategies effectively. Despite Atlas's efforts, which included multiple attempts, the Santos defense held strong, especially under pressure.
With time ticking away, Santos capitalized on one of the few lapses from the Atlas defense when, at the 80th minute, Barticciotto struck again—a stunning goal from outside the box, sealing the score at 2-0. This goal highlighted his role as not only the match-winner but also the key player who delivered Santos from almost certain despair.
The final moments of the match included discipline issues, with several yellow cards handed out. Atlas’s goalkeeper Camilo Vargas showcased impressive reflexes, stopping several close calls from Santos as the laguneros sought to extend their lead.
The match concluded with a rousing cheer from Santos's home support, signaling relief and joy at finally overcoming their challenging run. This win not only gives Santos Laguna three invaluable points but also serves as a psychological boost for the team moving forward. Despite the result, Atlas will need to recalibrate and strategize as they ponder their next steps after two consecutive disappointing outings.
For Santos, every player, especially Barticciotto, can take pride as their hard work finally pays off on the pitch, reminding everyone of the potential locked within the team. They've found their footing just as the league season progresses, leaving fans hopeful for what’s next.