San Nicolás de los Garza.- The highly anticipated Clásico Regio 140 is set to unfold this Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 19:00 hours (Mexico City time) at the Estadio Universitario. This match promises not only to be a fierce battle between Tigres and Rayados but also a crucial turning point in the Liga MX Clausura 2025 tournament as both teams vie for a direct qualification spot to the playoffs.
As it stands, Tigres is currently in sixth place with 26 points, having achieved eight victories, two draws, and four losses. Meanwhile, Rayados sits in the precarious position of seventh with 22 points, comprised of six wins, four draws, and four defeats. A win for Rayados would bring them just one point behind their rivals, intensifying the race for playoff positioning as the regular season approaches its conclusion.
The stakes are high for both teams. For Tigres, a loss could mean slipping into the dreaded Play-In zone, a situation they are keen to avoid at all costs. They arrive at this match buoyed by recent success, having advanced to the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup after a thrilling 3-2 victory over LA Galaxy. This win has reignited their confidence just in time for the Clásico.
However, not all is well for the felinos as they face potential absences in key players. Coach Guido Pizarro is uncertain about the availability of Ozziel Herrera and Jesús Angulo, both of whom are working separately from the team. Their absence could significantly impact Tigres' strategy and performance in this crucial showdown.
On the other side of the pitch, Rayados head coach Martín Demichelis is hopeful that Sergio Canales, who missed the last practice session, will be able to participate. Canales' presence would be a vital boost for Rayados, who are looking to capitalize on any opportunity to close the gap with their rivals.
This Clásico Regio marks the 75th encounter at the Estadio Universitario, where Tigres holds a slight edge with 28 wins compared to Rayados' 24, alongside 22 draws. The last time these two teams clashed at this venue, Tigres emerged victorious with a commanding 3-0 win during the Apertura 2023. However, Rayados claimed revenge in Clásico 139 with a 4-2 victory at the Gigante de Acero, setting the stage for a thrilling rematch.
As the teams prepare to face off, the excitement is palpable among fans and players alike. The rivalry between Tigres and Rayados is one of the most intense in Mexican football, and this match is no exception. With both teams needing a win to secure their playoff aspirations, the atmosphere at the Estadio Universitario is expected to be electric.
In anticipation of the match, Monterrey's authorities have implemented a special security operation to ensure the safety of all attendees. The Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección a la Ciudadanía has organized measures for the arrival of Rayados fans, who will gather at the Plaza de Toros "Lorenzo Garza" before making their way to the stadium in a caravan. The police presence will be significant, with 220 officers deployed to maintain order and assist fans.
The caravan is scheduled to depart at 16:00 hours, and fans are urged to keep their tickets handy and follow the instructions of security personnel. A security filter will be set up at the intersection with Servicio Postal to ensure that only ticketed fans enter the stadium.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, the excitement builds. Fans are eager to witness what could be a defining match for both teams as they navigate the narrow path to the playoffs. Will Tigres solidify their position in the Liguilla, or will Rayados close the gap and intensify the competition? One thing is for sure: this Clásico Regio will be a spectacle not to be missed.
For those looking to catch the action, the match will be broadcast live on Canal 7 and available for streaming on TUBI. The anticipation for this clash of titans is palpable, and both teams are ready to give their all in pursuit of glory.
As the players take to the field, the tension will be high. Fans from both sides are expected to fill the stands, creating an atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the Clásico Regio. With everything on the line, both Tigres and Rayados will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
In a tournament as tightly contested as the Liga MX Clausura 2025, every point counts. Winning this match could mean the difference between a comfortable playoff berth and a nerve-wracking battle for survival in the Play-In. The stakes couldn’t be higher as the teams gear up for what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.
