On March 16, 2025, the Liga MX match between Pumas UNAM and Monterrey proved to be quite decisive, with Monterrey defeating Pumas 3-1 at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario. The game was not just about the score, but also about the controversies, particularly surrounding Spanish defender Sergio Ramos.
The stage was set with both teams eager for points. Pumas, under new coach Efraín Juárez, was attempting to improve its standing after three consecutive matches without defeat, but had historically struggled against Monterrey. They entered the match sitting eleventh with 14 points, desperately needing to secure three points to climb up the rankings and maintain playoff hopes.
Actions heated up early on as Ramos was involved in several contentious moments during the match. He was first noted for his aggressive style, as he engaged physically with Pumas players. Nevertheless, Ramos opened the scoring for Monterrey, which only heightened the atmosphere.
The first goal came from Sergio Canales, who converted a penalty kick at the 49th minute following a foul committed by Pumas’ Ángel Azuaje. This goal set the pace for Monterrey, increasing the pressure on Pumas to respond.
Soon after, Iker Fimbres scored the second goal for Monterrey, leaving Pumas reeling. With Monterrey leading 2-0, the Pumas fought back but encountered numerous obstacles, including disallowed goals which would have changed the course of the match.
Ramos, remembered for his defensive prowess, was also the subject of significant scrutiny. He received his first red card in Mexican football for kicking Guillermo ‘Memote’ Martínez, leaving his team with ten men and igniting chants of 'bien hecho' from the enthusiastic Monterrey fans.
Pumas finally found the scoresheet with Guillaume Martínez scoring from the penalty spot late in the game, but it was too little too late. The match wrapped up with the scoreline reading 3-1, securing the win for Monterrey and providing manager Martín Demichelis with some much-needed relief amid speculation over his job security.
Following the match, Efraín Juárez expressed the need for improvements from his squad. “We need to work hard during the FIFA date to raise our level,” he noted, emphasizing the team’s path forward after suffering their first local defeat under his guidance.
The Pumas’ struggle continues as they prepare to face León next, whereas Monterrey will host Tijuana, both teams eager to improve their standings as the Liga MX season progresses.
The result highlighted the dichotomy of both teams’ fortunes, encapsulating Pumas’ challenges against Monterrey, with this loss marking their seventh consecutive match without victory over the Rayados. Pumas last prevailed against Monterrey over three years ago.
Going forward, with players like Ramos unavailable due to his ejection from the match, Pumas must regroup and refocus, aiming to break their negative streak next match-up.