Xolos and Mazatlán Draw 2-2 in High-Intensity Clash

Xolos and Mazatlán Draw 2-2 in a Match Marked by Penalties and Controversy

Both teams come from Leagues Cup eliminations and share the points in an intense showdown

Mazatlán, August 9, 2025 – In a match where the urgency to secure points was evident, Mazatlán FC and Club Tijuana played to a 2-2 draw at Estadio El Encanto. The game was filled with emotions, featuring two penalties, controversial decisions, and a dramatic ending.

First Half Belongs to Xolos

Club Tijuana started with greater precision. In the 22nd minute, Frank Boya opened the scoring with a strike inside the box for the 0-1 lead. Despite Mazatlán’s offensive efforts and several corner kicks, the border team’s defense held strong. In stoppage time of the first half, Kevin Castañeda doubled the lead from the penalty spot (45’+2), putting Xolos 0-2 ahead before the break.

Mazatlán’s Second-Half Comeback

Mazatlán returned from halftime with renewed energy. Nicolás Benedetti reduced the deficit in the 68th minute with a close-range finish. Minutes later, a VAR-reviewed play resulted in a penalty for the home team, which Benedetti converted again in the 87th minute to level the score at 2-2.

A Tense and Physical Finish

The closing minutes were marked by fouls and yellow cards, as both teams pushed for a winning goal that never came. The draw leaves Xolos with mixed feelings after letting a two-goal advantage slip away, while Mazatlán salvages a point at home after trailing for most of the match.