In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio BBVA on March 29, 2025, Monterrey faced off against Tijuana in Jornada 13 of the Liga MX Clausura 2025. With both teams eager to secure vital points, the match showcased a blend of skill, determination, and drama.
Monterrey, coming into the match with a sense of urgency, needed a win to keep their aspirations for the playoffs alive. The team was without their captain, Sergio Ramos, who was serving a suspension after being sent off in the previous match against Pumas. This absence left a significant gap in Monterrey's defense, and they were keen to compensate for his loss.
Tijuana, on the other hand, was struggling at the bottom of the league table and was looking to bounce back after the dismissal of their coach, Juan Carlos Osorio. The Xolos aimed to lift their spirits and prove they could compete despite their challenging season.
The first half began with both teams testing each other's defenses. Monterrey's Lucas Ocampos was particularly active, creating several opportunities. However, it was Tijuana who struck first when Raúl Zúñiga scored in the 30th minute, putting Monterrey on the back foot. He finished a swift counterattack with a low shot past the Monterrey goalkeeper, making it Monterrey 0, Tijuana 1.
As the match progressed, Monterrey fought back and began to apply pressure. Their persistence paid off when they were awarded a penalty after Lucas Ocampos was fouled in the box by Rafael Fernández. Sergio Canales stepped up to take the penalty and coolly slotted it into the bottom right corner, leveling the score at Monterrey 1, Tijuana 1 just before halftime.
The second half saw both teams making tactical changes in an attempt to gain the upper hand. Monterrey substituted Roberto de la Rosa for Héctor Moreno and Ricardo Chávez for Iker Fimbres, while Tijuana brought on Jhojan Julio and Joe Corona among others. The substitutions aimed to inject fresh energy into the match.
Despite Monterrey's efforts, Tijuana struck again in the 60th minute when Gilberto Mora scored, taking advantage of a defensive lapse. This goal put Tijuana ahead at Monterrey 1, Tijuana 2, and the visitors celebrated their lead with fervor.
In the face of adversity, Monterrey continued to push forward, creating several chances. Germán Berterame had a notable opportunity but failed to convert from close range. The pressure mounted as Monterrey sought to equalize once more, with Canales and Ocampos leading the charge.
As the clock ticked down, Monterrey's frustration grew. They were awarded multiple corners and free-kicks, but Tijuana's defense held firm, with goalkeeper Iván Tona making crucial saves to deny Monterrey. The tension in the stadium was palpable as Monterrey fans urged their team to find an equalizer.
In the dying moments of the match, the referee announced six minutes of added time, giving Monterrey a glimmer of hope. The home side threw everything forward, but Tijuana's defense held strong, and the visitors managed to clear their lines time and again.
The final whistle blew, and Monterrey was left to ponder what could have been. They had fought valiantly but ultimately fell short, succumbing to Tijuana 1-2. This defeat was a significant setback for Monterrey in their quest for playoff contention, while Tijuana celebrated a much-needed victory that could reignite their season.
Post-match, Monterrey coach Martín Demichelis expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about his team's potential. "We need to regroup and focus on the next matches. We have the talent to turn this around," he stated. Meanwhile, Tijuana's interim coach reflected on the importance of the win, saying, "This victory gives us hope and shows that we can compete. We need to build on this moving forward."
As the Liga MX season progresses, both teams will look to capitalize on this match's outcome. Monterrey must regroup quickly to stay in the playoff race, while Tijuana will aim to build momentum from this victory. The stakes are high as the season approaches its climax, and every point counts.
