Pachuca vs. Monterrey
Monterrey Secures Victory Against Pachuca in Apertura 2024
In their opening match of the Liga MX Apertura 2024, Monterrey (Rayados) managed to edge out Pachuca with a narrow 1-0 victory at the Hidalgo Stadium. This win marks Monterrey’s fourth consecutive triumph over the Tuzos.
Key Moments
Kick-off and Early Exchanges
The match kicked off with high intensity from both sides. Pachuca started strong, attempting to control possession and create early chances. Monterrey, however, proved dangerous on the counter, with their first significant chance coming in the 3rd minute when Sergio Canales managed a shot on goal, easily saved by Pachuca’s goalkeeper, Carlos Moreno.
Early Dominance and Goal
By the 11th minute, Monterrey began to look more threatening. The breakthrough came in the 13th minute when GermĂĄn Berterame orchestrated a swift counterattack, passing to Roberto de la Rosa, who then crossed to Sergio Canales. Canales made no mistake, calmly slotting the ball into the net to give Monterrey the lead.
Close Calls and Tactical Adjustments
Pachuca attempted to respond quickly, with Roberto de la Rosa hitting the post in the 17th minute. Despite these efforts, Monterrey’s defense held strong. The visitors focused on maintaining possession and thwarting Pachuca’s creative play, particularly nullifying the threat posed by Moroccan winger Idrissi.
Second Half Resurgence and Defensive Stamina
The second half saw Pachuca pushing hard for an equalizer. They made several substitutions, including bringing on debutant Gael Ălvarez, but Monterrey’s goalkeeper Andrada was in fine form, making crucial saves and cutting out crosses effectively.
Monterrey, on the other hand, relied on solid defensive play and occasional counterattacks. Maxi Meza’s crosses and Jordi Cortizo’s displays were notable, though they couldn’t extend their lead.
Final Minutes and Tensions
The closing stages of the match were tense, with Pachuca almost finding an equalizer in the 79th minute through a dangerous cross from Ălvarez, which narrowly missed Sergio de los RĂos. Monterrey had their own scare when Maxi Meza and Pedro Pedraza collided, but both continued after receiving treatment.
Bryan Gonzalez of Pachuca received a yellow card in the 89th minute for a rough tackle, indicative of the home side’s growing frustration. Despite six minutes of added time, Monterrey’s defense stood firm, and the final whistle confirmed their victory.
