The highly anticipated Clásico Regio between Tigres UANL and Rayados de Monterrey is set to unfold on Saturday, April 12, 2025, but the match will be missing one of its key players. Sergio Canales, the Spanish midfielder for Rayados, will not participate due to a significant injury he sustained during a heated altercation with his coach, Martín Demichelis.
The incident occurred during a training session when Canales, frustrated with the team's performance, kicked a glass door, resulting in a severe wound that required 10 stitches on his left leg. Despite his efforts to recover, including differentiated training sessions throughout the week, he was unable to make it back in time for the crucial match. Canales expressed no remorse for his actions, stating, "I don't regret it; it was a reaction to the frustration of our results." This absence is a major blow for Rayados, as Canales is one of the top scorers in the Clausura 2025 tournament, having netted six goals so far.
As both teams gear up for this critical clash, the stakes couldn't be higher. The Clásico Regio is not only a fierce rivalry but also a pivotal match in the standings of the Liga MX. Tigres, under the management of Guido Pizarro, currently sits in a stronger position with 26 points, while Rayados trails closely behind with 22 points, occupying the eighth spot in the general table. With the playoffs approaching, both teams are eager to secure vital points to avoid the Play-In round and ensure direct qualification for the Liguilla.
In their last outing, Tigres played to a frustrating goalless draw against Puebla, a result that left them looking for redemption against their rivals. However, they come into this match buoyed by their recent success in the Concachampions, where they eliminated LA Galaxy to reach the semifinals. This momentum could play a crucial role in their performance against Rayados.
On the other hand, Rayados managed to relieve some pressure on Demichelis by defeating Chivas 3-1 in their last league match. This victory was a much-needed boost, but the Clásico is expected to be a true test of their resolve and ability to maintain their current form.
In terms of lineup changes, Rayados will see Jordi Cortizo stepping in for Canales in the starting eleven. Meanwhile, Tigres will also have to navigate their own absences, as key players like André-Pierre Gignac, Diego Reyes, and Ozziel Herrera will not be available for selection.
The last Clásico Regio saw Rayados emerge victorious with a 4-2 win in October 2024, marking their fourth consecutive match without a loss against Tigres. The last time Tigres claimed victory over Rayados was two years ago in September during the Apertura 2023, which adds an extra layer of urgency for the team to reclaim their pride in this storied rivalry.
With both teams desperate for a win, the Clásico Regio promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with high stakes and intense emotions. The atmosphere is expected to be electric as fans from both sides gather to support their teams in this historic matchup.
The possible starting lineups for the match are as follows:
Tigres: Guzmán, Aquino, Purata, Joaquim, Zwarg, Carioca, Gorriarán, Brunetta, Lainez, Antuna, Ibáñez.
Rayados: Andrada, Chávez, Ramos, Medina, Arteaga, Ambríz, Fimbres, Deossa, Óliver Torres, De la Rosa, Berterame.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on the players as they take the field, with both teams knowing that a win could significantly impact their playoff aspirations. The Clásico Regio is set to deliver another chapter in the fierce rivalry between Tigres and Rayados, and fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an unforgettable showdown.
