Atlas Eyes Play-In Spot Against Formidable Tijuana
Atlas faces a crucial matchup against Tijuana on Friday night, marking their last chance for playoff qualification. A victory at Estadio Caliente is essential, as the venue has historically presented challenges for the team.
Historical Context at Estadio Caliente
Since the inception of Liga MX in Baja California, Atlas has struggled at this venue. Over the past decade, the team has visited Tijuana 16 times, securing only two wins. The overall record at Estadio Caliente is not favorable:
- Total Matches: 16
- Xolos Wins: 9
- Atlas Wins: 2
- Draws: 5
Xolos has scored 35 goals against Atlas while conceding just 17, reflecting their dominance on home turf.
Recent Encounters
The most notable match occurred during the Clausura 2025, when Atlas pulled off a stunning comeback. They overcame a 3-0 deficit to win 4-3, showcasing their resilience. This match was marked by:
- Matheus Doria’s famous “scorpion kick” goal
- Djuka’s first hat-trick in Mexico
Before this, Atlas achieved its only other victory in Tijuana ten years earlier, under coach Tomás Boy, with a score of 2-1.
Path to Qualification
To reach the playoffs, Atlas must secure a win against Tijuana while relying on results from other matches. The specific requirements include:
- Victory against Tijuana
- Pumas must either draw or lose to Cruz Azul on Saturday
- Santos must draw or lose to Pachuca on Sunday
Meeting these conditions would end Atlas’s two-year absence from the playoffs, granting them a spot in the playoff rounds. The upcoming game against Tijuana is not just a match; it’s a vital step toward redemption and playoff aspirations.
