Katia Itzel García Disallows Atlante Goal Against FC Juárez

A spectacular long-range strike by Martín Sarrafiore was ruled out after a video assistant referee (VAR) review, but Atlante still defeated FC Juárez 1-0 in Chihuahua on Tuesday. Referee Katia Itzel García overturned the goal because the Argentine midfielder used his hand while winning possession, while Nico Carrera later secured the visitors' victory. According to Fox Sports México, the decisive incident occurred in the 29th minute of the midweek Liga MX fixture.

Sarrafiore intercepted the ball near the center circle before unleashing a left-footed shot from beyond halfway that sailed into the net past FC Juárez goalkeeper Sebastián Jurado. Atlante players initially celebrated with Sarrafiore, believing they had taken the lead. However, VAR officials requested a review, and replays showed the midfielder had handled the ball while gaining possession.

García subsequently disallowed the goal.

The decision also prompted a reaction from FC Juárez's technical area. García cautioned a member of the home team's coaching staff who protested the incident, even though the ruling ultimately benefited the Bravos.

Atlante entered the match seeking to end a run of two consecutive defeats and preserve its slim hopes of reaching the Liga MX playoffs. Despite losing the apparent opening goal, the visitors eventually found the breakthrough in the second half. Carrera scored the only goal in the 75th minute, converting a set-piece delivery from Sarrafiore with a header. According to Fox Sports México, the attempt struck the crossbar before crossing the goal line, giving Atlante the lead.

FC Juárez also created opportunities to score during the match but could not get past Atlante goalkeeper Óscar Jiménez. The home side failed to find an equalizer after Carrera's goal. The victory gave Atlante all three points from its trip to Ciudad Juárez. Fox Sports México reported that the defeat left FC Juárez as the first team eliminated from playoff contention during the regular season.