The Pachuca vs Querétaro clash delivered one of the biggest surprises of the Liga MX Apertura 2026 season as Querétaro fought back from an early deficit to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory at Estadio Hidalgo. Despite Pachuca taking the lead inside the opening minutes, the visitors showed resilience and completed a memorable comeback thanks to a late brace from Ali Ávila.
The result handed Querétaro their first win of the new campaign while ending Pachuca’s perfect start after their convincing opening-week victory.
Pachuca Started Brightly
Pachuca looked in complete control during the opening stages. Veteran striker Salomón Rondón headed home after an excellent attacking move to give the Tuzos a dream start in front of their home supporters. The goal rewarded Pachuca’s aggressive pressing and quick attacking transitions.
Following the opener, Pachuca continued to dominate possession and created several dangerous opportunities, but they were unable to extend their advantage before halftime.
Querétaro Refused to Give Up
After surviving sustained pressure, Querétaro returned from the break with renewed confidence. The visitors gradually pushed higher up the field and began creating chances through quick counterattacks.
Ali Ávila leveled the contest midway through the second half with a well-placed finish that shifted the momentum entirely in Querétaro’s favor. Pachuca struggled to regain control as the Gallos Blancos continued to threaten on the break.
Dramatic Injury-Time Winner
With the match seemingly heading toward a draw, Querétaro struck in stoppage time.
Ali Ávila found himself in the right place at the right moment to score his second goal of the night in the 94th minute, completing an outstanding comeback and silencing the Estadio Hidalgo crowd. His brace secured a memorable 2-1 away victory and earned Querétaro all three points.
What the Result Means
The defeat was a setback for Pachuca after opening the Apertura campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory over Pumas. Expectations were high for the Tuzos following that dominant performance, but defensive lapses late in the match proved costly.
For Querétaro, the victory provides a major confidence boost after beginning the season with a narrow defeat. Winning away against one of Liga MX’s strongest home sides could become a turning point in their campaign.
Pachuca vs Querétaro Match Highlights
- Final Score: Pachuca 1-2 Querétaro
- Competition: Liga MX Apertura 2026
- Venue: Estadio Hidalgo
- Pachuca Scorer: Salomón Rondón
- Querétaro Scorer: Ali Ávila (2)
- Match Winner: Querétaro after a second-half comeback.
Pachuca Must Respond Quickly
Although Pachuca showed quality during the opening stages, the inability to finish chances and maintain defensive concentration ultimately proved decisive. Benjamin Mora’s side will now look to bounce back quickly as the Liga MX Apertura season continues.
Meanwhile, Querétaro leaves Hidalgo with renewed belief after producing one of the weekend’s most impressive results. If they can build on this performance, the Gallos Blancos could become one of the surprise teams of the early season.
Leave a Reply