Xolos loses 1-0 to Toluca and falls to tenth place in the standings
Xolos falls at Nemesio Diez against Toluca and loses its unbeaten streak in the Clausura
Joel Casillas
2/14/20261 min read
A difficult match from the start
Xolos faced Toluca in Friday’s featured match, a game that promised intensity. The border team arrived unbeaten, with only one win but no losses. On the other side stood the reigning two-time champion, a team historically strong at home and unwilling to make things easy.
Expectations were high, but the match quickly became an uphill battle for the “Loco” and his squad.
A style under scrutiny
This season, Xolos has faced criticism. On one hand, the last tournament’s strong performance raised expectations, especially after the improvement shown following Osorio’s tenure and standout performances from players like Gil Mora and Frank Boya.
On the other hand, the team has adopted a conservative style of play, relying on a low block and prioritizing not conceding goals, even if it means sacrificing attacking presence. A proposal that many have labeled as unattractive.
Paulinho makes the difference
The match began with Xolos well-organized defensively but lacking offensive depth. It did not take long for Toluca to take the lead: in the 20th minute, Paulinho scored after a great cross from Marcel Ruiz, making it 1-0, which would stand as the final score.
From that point on, Tijuana tried to respond, but without clarity or sharpness in the final third. Toluca controlled the tempo and protected its advantage.
The “Loco” speaks
After the match, the coach was questioned about the team’s style and lack of wins. He appeared serious and direct in his responses, especially when asked whether he considered Xolos to be in crisis.
His reply was firm:
“If we are in crisis, what should we say about Mazatlán?”
Standings tighten
With this result, Xolos loses its unbeaten streak and now sits in 10th place with 7 points, drifting away from playoff positions.
Tough opponents remain on the schedule, meaning the margin for error is shrinking. The next match at home against Mazatlán will be crucial in regaining momentum and securing three points.