Tension and Anticipation Build Ahead of Clásico Tapatío Play-In Match

The anticipation for the latest edition of the Clásico Tapatío, a historic rivalry match between Chivas de Guadalajara and Atlas, has reached new heights. Scheduled for Thursday, this match will serve as the first obstacle in the Play-In series that determines entry into the Liguilla, Mexico’s football league playoffs. The winner will face either Xolos or Club América on Sunday, competing for the eighth spot in the quarterfinals.

As reported by ESPN Digital, tensions escalated early Thursday when devoted Chivas fans staged a disruptive show outside the Atlas team’s hotel. Videos circulating on social media document the placement of fireworks near the hotel late at night, aimed at unsettling the Atlas players ahead of the game. Despite the commotion, club officials mentioned to ESPN that most team members remained unaware of the incident until seeing social media posts.

On the other side, Atlas fans carried out a “Banderazo Rojinegro” event on Wednesday night. Approximately 400 supporters gathered to energize the team, resulting in an untroubled interaction with the players, who joined them in chants and displays of unity.

Thursday’s match, to be hosted at Estadio Akron, marks a significant occasion as it is the first time Chivas and Atlas confront each other in the Play-In. Historically, their encounters have often occurred in the quarterfinal phases, making this event a noteworthy addition to their long-standing rivalry documented in Mexican football history.

Chivas approach this match following a tumultuous season that saw a change in leadership from coach Fernando Gago to Arturo Ortega. Notably, the team failed to beat the nine other teams that have secured playoff positions. In contrast, Atlas started the season strongly under coach Beñat San José, who led them to three victories and two draws in their first five games.

Chivas have recovered several key players, including Roberto Alvarado, Antonio Briseño, and Ricardo Marín, who have overcome muscle injuries. Meanwhile, Atlas is boosted by the returns of players like Camilo Vargas and Jhon Murillo, fresh from participating in CONMEBOL qualifiers.

Both teams face challenges, having displayed limited offensive production towards the end of the season. The upcoming match is expected to be intensely contested, possibly deciding on penalties. Historically, Chivas have dominated the rivalry since 1996, with 27 wins compared to Atlas’ 21 in their last 70 meetings, along with 22 draws.

As both sides prepare, the rivalry continues to inspire both players and fans in what promises to be a thrilling extension of the Clásico Tapatío narrative.