Atlante Femenil dismisses coach Nicolás Morales after controversial remarks

Atlante Femenil has announced the departure of head coach Nicolás Morales following controversial remarks made after a 2-1 victory over Querétaro. Morales had led the team for eight matches during the Apertura 2026 tournament.

The controversy stemmed from post-match comments regarding player Nailea Vidrio, who was making her first appearance in the tournament after a year-long absence. Morales criticized her tactical positioning, stating, “Le decía a la derecha y se iba a la izquierda; le decía a la izquierda y se iba a la derecha, entonces ya no sabía ni qué hacer, me volvió loco en la banca.” Additionally, Morales drew criticism for referring to Querétaro forwards Grace Chanda and Enekia Lunyamila as “las dos delanteras de color” (the two forwards of color).

While the club's official statement did not explicitly cite these comments as the reason for his dismissal, it emphasized that the decision was made by mutual agreement and highlighted the importance of maintaining the club's “identity... sustained in values, principles, and respect.” Under Morales, the team held eighth place in Group A with six points.