Liga MX: Cruz Azul Takes Commanding Lead Over Atlas in Clausura 2026 Quarterfinals
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Cruz Azul holds a significant advantage after defeating Atlas 3-2 in the first leg of their Clausura 2026 quarterfinals.
- Atlas must now overcome a two-goal deficit in the second leg to advance.
- Cruz Azul has a strong historical record against Atlas, remaining undefeated in their last six league encounters.
Cruz Azul has taken a commanding lead in the Clausura 2026 quarterfinals, securing a crucial 3-2 victory over Atlas in the first leg at the Jalisco stadium. This win places 'La Máquina' firmly on track for a semifinal berth, needing only to avoid a two-goal deficit in the return leg to secure their passage.
El Cruz Azul sacó una ventaja más que importante en el juego de ida de los cuartos de final, por lo que tiene un pie y medio en las semifinales.
The team, under the guidance of Joel Huiqui, showed resilience, coming from behind to secure the win. Christian Ebere's late penalty proved decisive, ensuring Cruz Azul returns to the Estadio Azteca with a valuable advantage. This performance builds on their recent strong form, including a resounding 4-1 victory over Necaxa in their first match at the renovated stadium.
La Máquina derrotó (2-3) al Atlas en el estadio Jalisco y, gracias a su posición en la tabla, tendría que perder por dos goles para quedar eliminado.
Historically, Cruz Azul has a formidable record against Atlas, remaining undefeated in their last six league meetings since July 2023. This streak, comprising two wins and four draws, further bolsters their confidence as they approach the second leg. Atlas, despite their efforts, faces an uphill battle to overturn the deficit against a consistently strong opponent.
Christian Ebere anotó su penalti en la parte final del encuentro y provocó que el conjunto celeste regresara a la Ciudad de México con un marcador favorable.
The return leg at the Estadio Azteca promises to be an intense affair, with Cruz Azul aiming to complete the task and secure their spot in the semifinals. The match, scheduled for 21:15, will be broadcast on Canal 5, TUDN, and ViX Premium, offering fans a chance to witness what could be a decisive encounter in the Clausura 2026 playoffs.
Los celestes no pierden, en duelos de la Liga MX, con los rojinegros desde 1 de julio de 2023, es decir, hace casi tres años.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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