Santos Laguna defeats Atlante to solidify playoff spot

Santos Laguna took a crucial step toward securing a top-eight finish in the Apertura 2026 by defeating Atlante 2-0 in Matchday 16. The win continues the club's remarkable streak, as they have now claimed eight victories in their last nine matches.

The match momentum shifted early when Atlante defender Aarón Quirós was sent off in the 14th minute following a VAR review for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity to Esteban Lozano. Despite the numerical advantage, Santos struggled to break through early, with a goal from Jonathan Pérez disallowed for offside.

Atlante nearly stunned the hosts in the 55th minute when Martín Sarrafiore hit the crossbar of Carlos Acevedo's goal. However, Santos Laguna finally found their rhythm in the closing stages of the game.

Tahiel Jiménez broke the deadlock in the 66th minute with a cross-shot following a build-up initiated by Ezequiel Bullaude. Esteban Lozano then sealed the 2-0 win in the 76th minute with a clinical right-footed finish inside the box. With this result, the Laguneros hold 25 points and remain in fifth place, while Atlante remains stuck at 14 points.