Chivas had two players sent off and settled for a draw in Mazatlán.
Here’s a rewritten and more concise version of the article with improved clarity and flow, while preserving the key events and tone:
Chivas End With Two Red Cards and a Midfielder in Goal in Chaotic Draw Against Mazatlán
MAZATLÁN — In a wild and controversial match crucial for the Play-In race, Chivas finished with just nine men and midfielder Erick Gutiérrez in goal, salvaging a dramatic 1-1 draw against Mazatlán after a late penalty.
Mazatlán equalized in the 93rd minute through Luis Amarilla from the spot, capitalizing on the numerical advantage after red cards to Luis Rey and Raúl Rangel. The result spoiled what could have been Gerardo Espinoza’s first Liga MX win as Chivas manager.
Referee and VAR at the Center of the Storm
Referee Fernando Hernández was once again in the spotlight. In the 5th minute, Mazatlán appealed for a penalty after a challenge from Luis Rey on Amarilla, but no call was made—nor did VAR intervene. Minutes later, Mazatlán threatened again, but Raúl Rangel made a crucial save.
Chivas responded in the 15th minute, with Roberto Alvarado delivering a pinpoint cross that Teun Wilke turned into the opening goal. The visitors nearly doubled their lead later, but Lucas Merolla cleared Rey’s effort off the line.
Controversy returned when Wilke was taken down by Mazatlán’s Samir on a breakaway. Hernández checked with VAR but opted for a yellow card rather than a red.
Red Cards Change the Game
The match slowed in the second half until Luis Rey received a second yellow in the 70th minute, reducing Chivas to 10. Mazatlán pushed forward and earned a 90th-minute penalty after Sepúlveda fouled Bryan Colula—a decision confirmed by VAR.
Before the spot kick, Rangel was shown a second yellow and ejected for tampering with the penalty spot. With no substitutions left, midfielder Erick Gutiérrez stepped in as emergency goalkeeper. Amarilla buried the penalty, leveling the score.
Standings and Outlook
Chivas now sit in 12th place with 17 points, clinging to the final Play-In spot ahead of their next match against Puebla at the Akron Stadium. Mazatlán remain just ahead of Guadalajara on goal difference and keep their Play-In hopes alive.
Teun Wilke, starting in place of the injured Javier Hernández, scored his second goal in three starts, making a strong case for more minutes in the final stretch of the season.
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