As the Liga MX season approaches its climax, the stakes couldn't be higher for both Necaxa and Pachuca as they faced off in a thrilling match on April 11, 2025, at Estadio Victoria in Aguascalientes. The match, part of Jornada 15 of the Clausura 2025, saw the two teams battling for crucial points in their quest for a direct spot in the playoffs.
Entering the match, Necaxa was riding high, positioned fourth in the league standings with 27 points, just three points behind the leaders, América. Under the guidance of coach Nicolás Larcamón, the Rayos had secured three consecutive victories, including a decisive 2-1 win over Xolos in their previous outing. Pável Pérez and José Paradela were the heroes of that match, each finding the back of the net to propel Necaxa's momentum.
On the other hand, Pachuca, managed by Guillermo Almada, was in seventh place with 24 points and desperately needed a win to improve their playoff chances. The Tuzos had recently triumphed over América with a narrow 1-0 victory, courtesy of a goal from Salomón Rondón, but they were looking to build on that success against a formidable opponent.
Historically, Pachuca had the upper hand in the recent encounters between the two sides, winning three of their last five matches. This included a resounding 6-2 victory over Necaxa in the Apertura 2024 and a 2-1 win in the Play In round of the Clausura 2024. Such statistics added an extra layer of intrigue to the match as both teams sought not only victory but also bragging rights.
The match kicked off at 7:00 PM Central Mexico time, and the intensity was palpable from the start. The first half saw both teams exchanging blows, but it was Pachuca who drew first blood. In the 31st minute, Rondón scored with a precise shot from the center of the area, putting the Tuzos ahead 1-0.
However, Necaxa responded quickly. Just minutes later, in the 32nd minute, Pável Pérez leveled the score with a right-footed shot from the center of the box, assisted by Kevin Rosero. The match was tied 1-1, and both teams were eager to take control.
As the first half drew to a close, Pachuca regained the lead when Rondón struck again in stoppage time, making it 2-1 with a low shot that found the back of the net. The first half ended with Pachuca holding a slight advantage, leaving Necaxa with work to do in the second half.
The second half began with renewed vigor from both sides. Necaxa, needing the win to solidify their playoff position, pushed hard for an equalizer. Their efforts paid off in the 53rd minute when Diego de Buen scored with a well-placed shot from outside the area, bringing the score to 2-2.
With the match finely poised, the tension escalated. Each team had their chances, with both keepers making crucial saves. The match reached its climax in the 78th minute when Pável Pérez completed a remarkable comeback for Necaxa, scoring from outside the box to put them ahead 3-2. The stadium erupted as the Rayos took the lead for the first time in the match.
Despite Pachuca's attempts to rally back, including a series of substitutions and attacking plays, they couldn't find the equalizer. Necaxa's defense held firm, and the match ended with a thrilling 3-2 victory for the home side.
This victory not only secured three vital points for Necaxa but also strengthened their position in the race for the playoffs. The Rayos now sit comfortably in fourth place, while Pachuca's hopes for a direct playoff spot were dashed, leaving them to fight for a place in the repechage.
As the Liga MX season heads into the final weeks, both teams will need to reassess their strategies. Necaxa, buoyed by their recent form, will look to maintain their winning streak, while Pachuca will need to regroup and refocus as they chase a playoff berth.
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