FC Juárez delivered a stunning upset victory over Monterrey with a score of 2-1 during the sixth matchday of the Liga MX Clausura 2025 at the Estadio Olímpico Benito Juárez. The victory marked another disappointing evening for Monterrey, who has now won only one of their first six matches of the season and currently sits 12th on the league table.
The match got off to a dramatic start, with both teams jockeying for possession. It wasn’t long before FC Juárez struck first, with Jesús Murillo finding the net at the 35-minute mark. Juárez capitalized on Monterrey’s defensive lapses from set pieces, with Murillo converting following a corner kick. His header evaded Monterrey's keeper, Luis Cárdenas, who was left helpless as he failed to punch the ball clear.
According to Liga MX reports, "FC Juárez opened the score with a header converted by Jesús Murillo." The goal shifted momentum firmly in Juárez's favor as they entered the halftime break leading 1-0.
The second half saw Monterrey, managed by Martín Demichelis, seeking to equalize. They initiated plays aggressively, but Juárez's defense, marshaled by goalkeeper Sebastián Jurado, displayed resilience. Juárez doubled their lead shortly after the break through Óscar Estupiñán, who scored again with another header, this time from just inside the box, taking advantage of another lapse from the Monterrey defense at minute 62.
The frustration continued to mount for Monterrey as they struggled to convert their possession and shooting opportunities. ESPN commented, "Monterrey continues to struggle defensively, especially evident during set pieces," reflecting the dismal performance from the usually formidable squad.
Despite their advantages on the field, Monterrey could not find their rhythm, facing Juárez's counter-attack strategy and solid defensive formation. With the clock winding down, Monterrey finally managed to get on the scoreboard through Sergio Canales, who found the net during stoppage time (94'), but it was too little, too late.
"Even though they managed to score, it was very little and much too late," noted El Norte, summarizing Monterrey’s frustration at not securing more from the match.
This result leaves Monterrey scrambling to regain their footing after having been one of the tournament's top teams last season, where they finished as runners-up. Now, with only six points from six matches, troubles loom for the team as they eye upcoming fixtures.
Meanwhile, the victory propels FC Juárez up the standings, reflecting their improving form and resilience. Following the match, head coach Martín Varini praised his team’s performance and highlighted their tactical execution under pressure.
Adding to the evening's drama, Monterrey’s Jordi Cortizo was initially shown a red card for aggressively pushing Guilherme Castilho but was reinstated by the referee after VAR intervention, adjusting the decision to just a yellow card. This kind of controversy adds to the pressures faced by the squad from Monterrey as they contend with frustrations both on and off the field.
“Cortizo was shown red but reverted to yellow after VAR review,” according to coverage by Fox Sports, capturing the turmoil on the pitch.
With Juárez's defense holding firm to their lead, they left no room for error, especially with multiple players receiving yellow cards as tensions heightened. After the match, Juárez fans celebrated their team's fighting spirit and fortitude, hopeful for continued success throughout the season.
Looking forward, the Bravos will aim to build on this momentum, with their next challenge set against Tijuana, eager to solidify their place among the league's top contenders. Meanwhile, Monterrey faces the urgency to regroup quickly as they prepare for their upcoming match against Querétaro.”
Overall, this match showcased both the competitive spirit of the Liga MX and the unpredictable nature of football, where every encounter can change the dynamics of the season.