Queretaro suffer opening loss in Apertura 2026: 1-0 defeat without reply
Queretaro opened Apertura 2026 with a loss. The team from Querétaro capital fell 1-0 to Atlante in the league’s opening fixture, leaving them with zero points on the Liga MX table.
The only goal of the match came in the 22nd minute, when Alan Cervantes curled a long-range effort past Gil Alavez. From that point on, the home side pushed for an equalizer but failed to muster a single shot on target. Under Eduardo Fentanes, the team showed fight, yet the lack of finishing cost them the opener.
League standing: 15th in Liga MX, 0 pts, 0W-0D-1L from 1 games, recent form L. Goals this season: 0 scored, 1 conceded (-1 goal difference). Title race: 6 points behind leaders Cruz Azul.
What happened in the match?
The game was played at Estadio Corregidora, where Atlante’s Potros de Hierro prevailed thanks to Cervantes’ strike. The Venezuelan midfielder, a winter signing, was the standout performer after drilling a left-footed effort from outside the box.
Queretaro, meanwhile, carved two clear chances in the second half. Jefferson Intriago forced a fine save from the visiting keeper, and Ángel Sepúlveda headed over from close range. Despite the late push, the freseros couldn’t find the net.
Why the opening loss matters for Queretaro
The side managed by Eduardo Fentanes is already six points adrift of league leaders Cruz Azul after the opening weekend. With zero goals scored and one conceded, the team must fix its attacking flaws fast to avoid the foot of the table.
The poor start also piles pressure on Fentanes, who took charge with the mandate to steer the club clear of relegation. Fans are already calling for more firepower up front and greater defensive solidity.
What’s next for the freseros?
Queretaro face América next Saturday at Estadio Azteca in a high-stakes Liga MX clash. Another setback would put the coach’s position and fan confidence under immediate scrutiny.
In the meantime, the technical staff will review options to bolster the attack. Reports suggest interest in a young striker with a nose for goal, though no official moves have been confirmed. One thing is certain: the team must collect three points if it hopes to avoid the relegation zone.
The Apertura 2026 start has left doubts about Queretaro’s competitiveness. With just one game played and no goals to show, supporters are waiting for tangible improvements to avoid repeating past seasons’ struggles.
