Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA was buzzing with anticipation on the night of September 29, 2025, as the Rayados faced off against Santos Laguna in a Liga MX clash that would prove to be as historic as it was intense. The home side, still reeling from a crushing defeat at the hands of Toluca in the previous round, arrived determined to restore their confidence and keep pace in the fiercely competitive Apertura 2025 race. And restore it they did—with a hard-fought 1-0 victory, courtesy of Lucas Ocampos, that not only secured three vital points but also etched his name into club lore.
From the opening whistle, Monterrey made their intentions clear. The Rayados, under the guidance of coach Ortegón, pressed high and fast, refusing to let Santos settle or find any rhythm. The energy in the stadium was palpable, with fans roaring their support after a week of disappointment. Monterrey’s pressing game forced Santos onto the back foot, rarely allowing the visitors to cross midfield with any purpose. It was a statement of intent from a side eager to shake off recent adversity.
The breakthrough moment came midway through the first half, and what a moment it was. Monterrey built patiently down the right flank before delivering a pinpoint cross into the area. Lucas Ocampos, the Argentine midfielder who has quickly become a fan favorite, arrived at just the right time to smash home a powerful finish past the Santos keeper. The stadium erupted. Not only was it the goal that put Monterrey ahead, but as club officials and longtime supporters quickly realized, it carried monumental significance: Ocampos’s strike was the 4,200th official goal in Rayados history and, remarkably, the 1,000th goal for the club in the short tournaments era of Liga BBVA MX, which began in 1996.
“Lucas Ocampos makes history with Monterrey!” read the jubilant club statement released after the match. The milestone was made even sweeter by the timing—it came during the club’s 80th anniversary celebrations, a period already rich with reflection and pride for Rayados fans. Ocampos’s impact this season has been nothing short of sensational. Since joining in the Apertura 2024, he’s tallied five goals and four assists in just eleven matchdays, making this his most influential campaign yet.
The goal changed the complexion of the contest. Monterrey, buoyed by the crowd and the weight of history, seized control. They continued to create chances, with Germán Berterame coming close on several occasions, but the finishing touch eluded him. Santos, for their part, struggled to establish any real threat, their attacks breaking down against Monterrey’s disciplined back line.
But the night wasn’t without drama. Veteran Spanish defender Sergio Ramos, who has brought both experience and steel to the Rayados’ back line, found himself at the center of controversy. Twice in the first half, Ramos had the ball in the net, only for both goals to be ruled out by the referee—decisions that drew groans from the home crowd and visible frustration from the former Real Madrid star. To make matters worse, Ramos suffered a facial injury after a clash in the box, leaving the field bleeding and adding yet another layer of intensity to an already heated encounter.
Despite the setbacks, Monterrey’s defensive solidity never wavered. The second half saw more of the same: the Rayados pressing high, denying Santos time and space, and looking for a second goal to put the game to bed. Berterame continued to find himself in promising positions, but luck wasn’t on his side. The Santos attack, meanwhile, remained toothless, unable to break down the Rayados’ organized defense.
The final whistle brought a collective sigh of relief and then wild celebration. Monterrey’s players and fans alike knew just how crucial this win was—not only for the points but for the psychological boost after the Toluca defeat. With this result, Monterrey climbed to 25 points in the Apertura 2025 standings, drawing level with Toluca but sitting in second place due to goal difference. The battle at the top is fierce, with América and Cruz Azul breathing down their necks, making every fixture a high-stakes affair.
Ocampos, reflecting on the achievement, has often emphasized the importance of resilience and unity. After a pivotal victory over Tigres UANL in the Clásico Regio earlier in the campaign, the Argentine forward urged his teammates not to let up. “This is the path to achieve our goal,” he declared on social media, highlighting the collective effort and dedicating the win to a late friend. His leadership and drive have clearly rubbed off on the squad, who now find themselves firmly in contention for top honors as the season enters its decisive phase.
The Rayados’ recent form is a testament to their competitive spirit. After breaking a three-match winless streak with a hard-fought win over Tigres UANL—both in official play and in a friendly in San Antonio, Texas—the team has rediscovered its confidence. The supporters, always demanding, remain hopeful that this blend of discipline, attacking flair, and defensive grit will carry Monterrey to the summit of Liga MX.
Looking ahead, Monterrey faces another stern test as they prepare to host Pumas UNAM, led by coach Gustavo Lema, in a midweek clash on October 1. With the standings so tight, every point is precious, and the Rayados know there’s no room for complacency. The squad’s depth, experience, and recent momentum suggest they’re well-equipped for the challenge.
As the club celebrates its 80th anniversary, the sense of history and ambition is stronger than ever. Ocampos’s milestone goal is more than just a statistic—it’s a symbol of a team determined to write new chapters of glory. For Monterrey, the journey continues, fueled by the passion of its players and the unwavering support of its fans. With the Apertura 2025 heating up and the race for the top spots tighter than ever, all eyes will be on the Rayados as they aim to turn historic nights like this into a springboard for even greater success.
