Atlas and Tigres UANL played to a 0-0 draw at the Jalisco Stadium on matchday 16 of the Clausura 2026, a result that leaves their direct qualification for the Liguilla up in the air. Both teams needed three points to secure their place in the quarterfinals, but ended up neutralizing each other in a close match with few concessions.
The match began with a slight dominance by Atlas, who took advantage of the first few minutes to generate danger. The clearest chance came in the 36th minute, when Diego González scored from a free kick, but the goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR review, a decision that changed the course of the match.
Tigres reacts, but Vargas excels
After the disallowed goal, Tigres took the lead and began to generate opportunities, mainly with mid-range shots at the Atlas goal.
However, they were met with an outstanding performance by Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas.
He became the star of the match with key interventions, including a save against Juan Brunetta.
In the second half, the feline team dominated the most dangerous moments.
Marcelo Flores had two clear chances, but again Vargas responded with a solid performance to keep the score unchanged.
Everything is defined on the last day
The draw forces Atlas and Tigres to play for qualification on the last matchday of the tournament.
Atlas, with 23 points, remains in seventh place and depends on itself:
A win against América would assure them a place in the quarterfinals.
It could also qualify if León loses its match.
Tigres is in eighth place with 22 units.
To avoid depending on other results, they need to beat Mazatlan at the Estadio Universitario.
Like Atlas, they could also advance if León does not win.
The clearest chance came in the 36th minute
QuéOnnda.com
A key duel
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These types of matches keep thousands of Hispanic fans in the United States on their toes, where Liga MX remains one of the most widely followed competitions.
Teams such as Tigres and Atlas have great support in cities such as Houston, Dallas and Los Angeles.
This means that the definition of the tournament generates high expectations.
The last round promises strong emotions, with several teams fighting for their place in the Liguilla, in a closing match that could completely change the table.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
