Club América has done it again. Las Águilas drew Monterrey 1-1 in Sunday night's Liga MX final second leg, clinching their third consecutive Liga MX title with a 3-2 aggregate victory. This feat marks them as the first team to win three straight titles since Liga MX switched to its short tournament format back in 1996. After winning the first leg 2-1 at home on December 12, América secured the Apertura title with the draw at Monterrey's Estadio BBVA.
The evening’s excitement was sealed with a stunning goal from Richard Sánchez. The Paraguayan midfielder found the net with a remarkable strike from 25 yards, igniting the hopes of América’s fans. The play began when Álvaro Fidalgo sent a long ball to Alejandro Zendejas. Zendejas expertly headed it back to Sánchez, who unleashed the rocket with his first touch, delighting the away supporters.
This strike put América up 1-0, and they held the advantage until the 85th minute when Monterrey's Johan Rojas managed to equalize. The equalizer brought some tension to the match, with Monterrey needing to score again to force extra time. The home side came close but their best chance fell short when Sebastián Vegas hit the crossbar with his header from a corner kick. That was Monterrey's last significant opportunity as Club América celebrated their well-earned title.
Before this crowning glory, Club América faced significant obstacles through the playoffs. Initially, as the eighth-seeded team, they had to navigate through the play-in process, where they triumphed over Club Tijuana. Then came the quarterfinals, where they dispatched Toluca with ease, winning 4-0 on aggregate.
The semifinals were no walk in the park, as they faced the top-seeded Cruz Azul. After playing to a scoreless draw in the first leg, América edged the semifinal with a thrilling 4-3 win in the second leg, solidifying their place in the finals.
A significant contributor to América’s championship was Zendejas. The winger, who plays for the U.S. men's national team, showcased his skills throughout the playoffs, consistently stepping up when it mattered most. Following his performances, which included goal contributions in three consecutive games, Zendejas has drawn attention for potential future selections for the national team. His assist on Sánchez’s goal was the perfect culmination of his playoff run.
Club América’s path to glory this season is even more commendable considering they entered the playoffs as the lowest seed. Their playoff system allowed them to overcome even the most formidable opponents, demonstrating their resilience and determination. Coach André Jardine must be credited for strategizing their way through the playoffs and keeping the team focused during high-pressure situations.
This win not only adds to Club América’s already impressive history but also secures their position with 16 Liga MX titles, the record for most championships held by any team. Their achievements also raise the bar for future contenders, laying down the challenge of replicable success.
Looking toward the future, there's already speculation about América's ambition to go for a fourth consecutive title. With the core of the team, including key players like Sánchez and Zendejas, returning for another season, supporters are hopeful this championship is just the beginning of another dynasty.
For the team, they certainly appear to be back on track to reclaim their status not only as league champions but also as one of the most formidable sides to ever grace Mexico's soccer scene. After overcoming ups and downs throughout the regular season, Club América has proven their mettle, embodying the saying, "what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger."
