Mazatlán Battles América to a Thrilling Draw in Liga MX Apertura 2025

In a dramatic showdown at Estadio El Encanto, Mazatlán FC and Club América played to a thrilling 2-2 draw during Matchday 15 of the 2025 Liga MX Apertura. Despite Mazatlán taking the lead twice, América’s persistence—capped by a spectacular late free-kick from Brian Rodríguez—secured a vital point as both teams chase their season objectives. The match opened with América on the front foot. In the 9th minute, Mexican full-back Kevin Álvarez unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, giving Las Águilas an early lead. However, Mazatlán quickly responded, first equalizing in the 17th minute through Bryan Colula—who fittingly scored against his former club—and then taking the lead in the 30th minute thanks to a long-range effort from Mauro Zaleta. América, missing several key players including Henry Martín and Alejandro Zendejas due to injury, dominated possession and pressed for an equalizer throughout the second half. The introduction of French winger Allan Saint-Maximin injected renewed energy into their attack, resulting in several close chances. Mazatlán, meanwhile, became increasingly defensive, content to protect their slim advantage and threaten on the counter. As the match entered its final stages, América’s pressure paid off. In the 89th minute, Brian Rodríguez—who recently signed a contract extension through 2029—curled a brilliant free-kick into the top corner, leveling the score and earning the visitors a draw. Rodríguez, now with six goals and three assists this season, proved once again why he is central to coach André Jardine’s plans. The goal also highlighted Rodríguez’s growing influence, a point underscored by América’s official announcement of his renewal earlier in the week (Club América on Twitter). Statistically, América maintained their strong record against Mazatlán, with four wins and two draws in their last six encounters. Despite missing out on victory, the point keeps América firmly in the hunt for the top spot in the league, as they now sit just behind leaders Toluca with 31 points from 15 matches (9 wins, 4 draws, 2 losses). Mazatlán, meanwhile, remain in 15th place with 13 points (2 wins, 7 draws, 6 losses), but still have hopes of reaching the Play-In phase if they can convert draws into wins in the final rounds. The match was also notable for its high intensity and late drama. Seven minutes of stoppage time were added, reflecting a game full of stoppages and tactical fouls. Both coaches made strategic substitutions in the second half to shift the momentum, but it was América’s depth and resilience that ultimately preserved their unbeaten record at El Encanto. Looking ahead, América will seek to regain top spot and continue their push for direct Liguilla qualification, while Mazatlán must build on this result to keep their playoff hopes alive. For neutrals and bettors alike, this game reinforced the unpredictability of Liga MX, where leads are never safe and individual brilliance—like that of Brian Rodríguez—can change the outcome in an instant. For full match highlights and additional analysis, visit TUDN’s live coverage and VAVEL’s in-depth report.