On March 5, 2025, the Monterrey Rayados drew 1-1 with Vancouver Whitecaps during the first leg of the Concachampions Round of 16, at BC Place. The match featured significant moments, including the absence of star player Sergio Ramos, who did not travel to Canada to focus on the upcoming match against Cruz Azul.
Monterrey, current ninth place holders with 15 points from 10 matches in Liga MX, required both rhythm and results to bolster confidence. Despite their struggles, they showcased talent capable of producing moments of brilliance on the pitch through players like Roberto de la Rosa and Esteban Andrada.
The match began with intensity, and within the first five minutes, both teams were already making tactical adjustments. The Rayados's strong defensive formation, initially appearing solid, began to falter due to mounting pressure from the Whitecaps.
Just before the 86-minute mark, Monterrey managed to score first, courtesy of de la Rosa. Following an incisive counterattack, Erick Aguirre delivered the decisive ball right to de la Rosa’s feet. The young striker expertly crossed the shot past the Whitecaps’ goalkeeper, Isaac Boehmer, putting Monterrey 1-0 up. This impressive goal came unexpectedly as the Whitecaps looked poised on the attack.
For the remainder of the first half, Monterrey attempted to hold onto their slim lead. Despite dominating moments of play earlier, they struggled against the sustained pressure from Vancouver, which had previously secured victories against the Portland Timbers and LA Galaxy.
Vancouver Whitecaps equalized late, thanks to Belal Halbouni’s header following a corner, marking 1-1. This was a frustrating outcome for Rayados, who had played efficiently yet had not showcased their full attacking potential. The tying goal illustrated Monterrey's defensive vulnerabilities, particularly on set pieces, which has been problematic through the early season.
Esteban Andrada’s performance stood out during the match with several key saves preventing the Whitecaps from scoring earlier. He fended off multiple shots, including two one-on-ones, demonstrating his capabilities and positioning as Monterrey's goalkeeper. Despite this, concerns continued to grow over Monterrey's ability to capitalize on opportunities offensively. They failed to register any significant threats during the second half.
The match was marked by rough play, characterized by multiple fouls from both sides, disrupting the rhythm but not the determination of the teams involved. The Rayados fans left the stadium with mixed emotions, knowing the team had squandered the chance to secure both the victory and the important away goal.
With this draw, Monterrey now prepares for their next assignment against Cruz Azul, scheduled for March 8, where they hope to regain full strength, especially with Ramos returning to bolster their lineup.
This aggregate matchup saw the two clubs meeting for the first time. Fans are anticipated to fill the seats at the return fixture on March 12 at Estadio BBVA, attending with high hopes for their team. While the Whitecaps have proven formidable so far this season, Monterrey's supporters are hopeful the team can turn the tide and advance to the next round of the tournament.
Looking back at the game, it was one punctuated by significant individual skill juxtaposed against collective failure. Monterrey has ample opportunity to rectify their shortcomings, but the question remains: can they find the necessary composure and precision to emerge victorious as they head back to Torreón?