Cruz Azul Fend Off Atlante's Challenge

Cruz Azul took control of their playoff destiny with a critical 3-1 win over Atlante at Estadio Azul in a Jornada 14 match.

La Maquina got two goals from Emanuel Villa and another from Christian Riveros as Cruz Azul opened up a five-point edge on third-place Atlante in the Group 3 table.

Villa opened the scoring in the 35th minute when he struck for a penalty. Atlante's Miguel Angel Martinez was whistled for a handball inside the penalty area to set up the spot kick. For his troubles, Martinez was shown a red card.

In the 41st minute, Cruz Azul doubled their advantage as Jaime Lozano sent a corner kick on goal that Riveros did well to power into the back of the goal.

Just before halftime, though, Atlante kept themselves into the game. Gabriel Pereyra found Rafael Marquez Lugo inside the box and Marquez Lugo sent the ball past Federico Vilar to give the visitors a much-needed goal and some momentum into the second half.

Atlante tried to find the equalizer but it was Cruz Azul who ultimately scored the game's fourth goal. Lozano again created the play, this time finding Villa in front of the goal. Villa slammed a header past Vilar as Cruz Azul regained their two-goal edge.

La Maquina made it stand without too many problems, though both sides went down a man in the 90th minute when Riveros and Atlante's Christian Bermudez were sent off after a brief altercation.

Cruz Azul have 24 points while Atlante, after threatening to derail Cruz Azul's strong campaign, remained on 19 points.

Goal.com

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