diff --git a/mathics/core/pattern.py b/mathics/core/pattern.py
index 7baea1e9b..9f7d532d8 100644
--- a/mathics/core/pattern.py
+++ b/mathics/core/pattern.py
@@ -625,7 +625,7 @@ def match_element(
 
         evaluation.check_stopped()
 
-        match_count = element.get_match_count(vars)
+        match_count = element.get_match_count(vars_dict)
         element_candidates = element.get_match_candidates(
             tuple(rest_expression[1]),  # element.candidates,
             expression,