Puebla vs Mazatlán Match Recap - Jan 13, 2026

Puebla's Resurgence: A 2-1 Victory Over Mazatlán Sparks Hope in Liga MX

Puebla's 2-1 victory over Mazatlán marks a crucial turning point for a team desperate for points. After a disheartening start to the Clausura, this win not only secures their first three points but also injects much-needed confidence into a squad that had been struggling to find its footing.

Emiliano Gómez emerged as a key figure for Puebla, continuing his impressive form from previous matches. His ability to drive the midfield and create opportunities has been pivotal, and today he played a significant role in setting the tone early on. With six goals already this season, Gómez is proving to be the heartbeat of this team, and his contributions today reaffirm his status as a player to watch moving forward.

Mazatlán's struggles persist, with their recent form reflecting a team in disarray. Despite Facundo Almada finding the net in the second half, it was not enough to change the narrative of a side that has now lost both of its opening matches in the Clausura. The inconsistency that plagued them last season continues to haunt them, as they remain unable to build on any momentum from their previous outings.

Puebla's attacking strategy paid off early, with goals from Lozano and Guerra within the first 12 minutes. This aggressive start showcased their intent to dominate the match and capitalize on Mazatlán's defensive frailties. The statistics from their last five matches indicate that Puebla has been creating chances but often failing to convert them into goals. Today, they turned that trend around, demonstrating a newfound clinical edge that had been missing in prior fixtures.

Mazatlán's defense, which has been shaky at best, struggled to contain Puebla's early onslaught. Their inability to maintain composure under pressure was evident, as they allowed two quick goals that set them back significantly. The lack of cohesion in their backline has been a recurring theme, and it was exploited effectively by Puebla's forwards.

The match also highlighted the contrasting fortunes of both teams in terms of possession and shot creation. Puebla dominated possession with 59% and outshot Mazatlán significantly, reflecting their control over the game. In contrast, Mazatlán's attack was stifled, managing only four total shots compared to Puebla's 15. This disparity underscores the challenges Mazatlán faces in transitioning from defense to attack effectively.

Despite the loss, Almada's goal serves as a glimmer of hope for Mazatlán. His ability to find the net amidst a sea of struggles could be the catalyst for a turnaround if he can find more support from his teammates. However, relying solely on individual brilliance will not suffice; Mazatlán needs to develop a cohesive strategy that allows their attacking players to thrive collectively.

Looking ahead, Puebla's next match against Cruz Azul will be a test of their newfound confidence. If they can build on this victory and continue to harness their attacking potential, they may just find themselves climbing out of the relegation zone sooner than expected. For Mazatlán, facing Monterrey presents an opportunity to regroup and reassess their approach. They must address their defensive vulnerabilities and find ways to support their attackers if they hope to avoid another disappointing outing.

This match serves as a reminder that in football, momentum can shift rapidly. Puebla's victory today could be the spark they need to ignite a successful run in the Clausura, while Mazatlán must confront their issues head-on or risk being left behind in the race for survival.