MAZATLÁN, MEXICO — In a pulsating Liga BBVA MX encounter that epitomized the drama of Mexican football, FC Juárez snatched a thrilling 2-1 victory over Mazatlán FC at Estadio El Encanto, with Denzell García's stoppage-time winner delivering a knockout blow that left the home crowd stunned.
The match erupted into life early when Francisco Nevárez unleashed a stunning right-footed thunderbolt in the 23rd minute. Receiving a precise assist from Madson, Nevárez's strike arrowed into the top left corner, splitting the Mazatlán defense with surgical precision and showcasing the midfielder's exceptional technical prowess. The goal gave the away side the perfect start and immediate psychological advantage on hostile territory.
Mazatlán's response was immediate and equally spectacular. Just twelve minutes later, Argentine defender Facundo Almada rose majestically to power home a header from the center of the box. Iván González's pinpoint cross from the right flank found Almada perfectly positioned, who guided the ball into the bottom left corner with impeccable timing. His passionate celebration in front of the home faithful signaled that this contest was far from decided.
The tactical battle intensified as both sides sought the decisive moment. FC Juárez controlled the match's rhythm, dominating possession at 54.3% and dictating play through their midfield maestros. Their patient, calculated approach bore fruit in creating higher-quality chances, registering 8 shots compared to Mazatlán's 4, with both sides managing 3 and 2 shots on target respectively.
The match's defining moment arrived deep into first-half stoppage time when García struck with surgical precision. Perfectly positioned in the center of the box, he converted a clinical left-footed effort after José Luis Rodríguez's intelligent assist carved open the Mazatlán defense. The timing was crucial—a psychological dagger just moments before halftime that gave Juárez a critical advantage.
The second half saw Mazatlán desperately searching for an equalizer. Jesús Hernández came agonizingly close in the 68th minute, his effort from the center of the box sailing tantalizingly wide of the target. The home side's mounting frustration was palpable as they struggled to penetrate Juárez's well-organized defensive unit.
Tactical discipline defined Juárez's performance. They edged the corner count 5-2 while maintaining an impenetrable defensive shape. The visitors' goalkeeper was called into action sparingly, making one crucial save to preserve their hard-earned lead. His Mazatlán counterpart matched the effort with an equally important stop of his own.
The match's physical intensity was reflected in the foul count, with both teams committing 14 and 15 infractions respectively. Only Mazatlán received a yellow card as tensions occasionally threatened to boil over. The referee's lenient approach allowed the game to flow, contributing to the match's enthralling narrative.
Strategic substitutions played a pivotal role. Mazatlán's coach introduced Christopher Castro for Jefferson Intriago at halftime, with Dudu Teodora replacing the injured Castro in the 54th minute. Juárez countered by bringing on Rodolfo Pizarro for Ricardinho in the 68th minute, each manager seeking that decisive tactical edge.
The closing stages saw Mazatlán launch desperate, all-out attacks in search of an equalizer. However, Juárez's defensive resilience and masterful game management proved insurmountable. They confidently navigated five minutes of added time, ultimately claiming a vital three points that could prove transformative in their Liga BBVA MX campaign.
This victory represents another impressive away performance for FC Juárez, who have demonstrated remarkable character and tactical flexibility on their travels this season. For Mazatlán FC, the defeat continues their inconsistent home form, leaving them with profound questions about their competitive identity as they seek to build momentum at the picturesque Estadio El Encanto.
García's stoppage-time heroics will be remembered as a defining moment—a testament to the unpredictable, heart-stopping drama that makes Mexican football a global spectacle of passion and skill.