Pachuca Stuns Monterrey in Thrilling Liga MX Play-In Match
In a dramatic twist, Pachuca secured their place in the Liga MX Clausura 2025 quarterfinals with a stunning 2-1 comeback victory over Monterrey at the Estadio BBVA. This nail-biting Play-In match saw Monterrey take an early lead, only to crumble under Pachuca's late pressure, culminating in a last-minute winner. The result sets up a mouth-watering quarterfinal clash against Club América.
A Tense First Half
The match began at a frenetic pace. Monterrey's Nelson Deossa almost opened the scoring early, but his long-range effort narrowly missed. Pachuca responded with their own attacks, with Juan Sigala's header sailing over the bar. Both teams had further chances, but the first half ended goalless, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.
Monterrey's Early Lead
Monterrey broke the deadlock in the 50th minute. Jesús 'Tecatito' Corona's pinpoint cross found Germán Berterame, who expertly finished to put the home side 1-0 up. With the momentum seemingly in their favor, Monterrey looked poised to advance.
Pachuca's Incredible Comeback
However, Pachuca refused to be disheartened. They relentlessly pressed forward, eventually finding their equalizer in the 81st minute through Eduardo Bauermann. Then, in a moment of high drama, a crucial error by Monterrey goalkeeper Esteban Andrada gifted Salomón Rondón the winner in the 86th minute, sealing a 2-1 victory for Pachuca.
Impact of Injuries and Implications
Monterrey's absence of key players like Sergio Ramos, due to injury, was keenly felt. Their defensive lapses proved costly in the face of Pachuca's determined comeback. Pachuca now face América in the quarterfinals, a rematch of the dramatic 2016 Clausura final, where Pachuca triumphed. Monterrey now face a must-win match against Pumas in a decisive elimination match to retain their playoff hopes.
How to Watch
Missed the game? Catch the replay or future Liga MX action on DirecTV Stream, TUDN, or ViX. For viewers outside the US, a VPN may be required to access your usual streaming service. The thrilling race for the Liga MX title continues!