In an exhilarating clash on May 8, 2025, Monterrey edged out Toluca 3-2 in the first leg of the Liga MX Quarterfinals at the Estadio BBVA. The match showcased a thrilling back-and-forth battle, leaving both teams with a chance to advance to the semifinals in the return leg.
The game kicked off with high stakes, as Monterrey and Toluca faced off in a matchup steeped in rivalry, marking the fourth playoff encounter between the two teams. Historically, Toluca had the upper hand, winning three out of the previous three playoff matches, while Monterrey secured victory just once in the 2009 Quarterfinals. This backdrop heightened the intensity on the field.
Early in the match, Toluca stunned Monterrey fans when Víctor Guzmán inadvertently scored an own goal in the 16th minute, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. The goal came from a misjudged clearance attempt that deflected into his own net, sending the Diablos Rojos into celebration and leaving Monterrey scrambling for an equalizer.
As the first half unfolded, Monterrey struggled to find their rhythm, facing a staunch defense from Toluca. However, the tide turned just before halftime when Nelson Deossa unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box in the 44th minute, leveling the score at 1-1. His shot was unstoppable for goalkeeper Pau López, providing a much-needed boost for the home side.
With the score tied at the break, both teams returned to the pitch with renewed determination. Monterrey's Sergio Canales quickly made his mark in the second half, scoring in the 50th minute with a well-placed shot that curled into the bottom corner, giving Monterrey a 2-1 lead. Canales’s goal was a product of a swift attacking move, showcasing Monterrey's attacking prowess.
However, the drama intensified in the 61st minute when Germán Berterame thought he had extended Monterrey's lead to 3-1. But the goal was disallowed after a VAR review confirmed that Canales had handled the ball in the buildup. This decision left the Monterrey fans in disbelief, as they felt the momentum swinging back to Toluca.
Despite the setback, Monterrey continued to press forward. In the 57th minute, Berterame finally found the back of the net, scoring the legitimate third goal for Monterrey with a deft finish that made it 3-1. The goal came after a brilliant team play involving Canales and Tecatito Corona, displaying Monterrey's attacking flair.
As the match progressed, Toluca refused to back down, intensifying their offensive efforts. They pulled one back in the 82nd minute when Luan Garcia scored with a powerful header from a corner, narrowing the deficit to 3-2. This goal reignited hope for the visitors, who were eager to equalize before the final whistle.
In the closing stages, both teams made strategic substitutions to bolster their chances. Monterrey brought on Jordi Cortizo for Canales, while Toluca introduced Edgar López in place of Alexis Vega. The substitutions added fresh legs to both sides as they battled for control of the match.
As the clock wound down, the referee added six minutes of stoppage time, allowing both teams one last chance to influence the outcome. Monterrey, now on the defensive, aimed to hold onto their slender lead while Toluca pushed for an equalizer. The intensity was palpable as every moment counted.
Ultimately, Monterrey’s defense held firm, and despite a few close calls, they managed to secure the victory. With the first leg concluded, the series remains open, with Toluca set to host the return leg, where they will seek to overturn the deficit.
Post-match, Monterrey coach Michal Demichelis expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, stating, "We showed resilience and determination, but we must remain focused for the second leg. The tie is far from over." Meanwhile, Toluca's coach Antonio Mohamed remained optimistic, noting, "We have the advantage of playing at home next, and anything can happen in football. We will fight until the end."
This thrilling encounter not only set the stage for an exciting return leg but also highlighted the fierce rivalry between Monterrey and Toluca, promising fans an electrifying conclusion to this quarterfinal showdown.
