Vancouver Whitecaps FC and CF Monterrey played to a 1-1 draw on March 5, 2025, during the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 series at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, British Columbia. This match marked the first encounter between the two clubs in the tournament's history.
The game opened with some early excitement, as the Whitecaps were forced to make an injury substitution just five minutes in. Ali Ahmed replaced Jayden Nelson, who had to leave the pitch due to injury. The adjustment didn’t deter Vancouver's attacking spirit, but it was Monterrey who drew first blood.
Roberto de la Rosa put Monterrey on the scoreboard in the 25th minute. The goal came off the back of a precise long pass from defender Érick Aguirre, who found de la Rosa unmarked on the left flank. De la Rosa took full advantage, dribbling across the field before unleashing a low right-footed shot. The ball hit the far post and rolled over the goal line, putting the visitors up 1-0.
The Whitecaps maintained pressure throughout the second half. Brian White had a golden opportunity to level the scoreline just before the hour mark. After receiving the ball inside the box, he unleashed a powerful shot, which was miraculously saved by Monterrey goalkeeper Esteban Andrada. This highlight-reel stop kept the score at 1-0 for the visitors.
Vancouver's persistence paid off late in the match. Just four minutes from time, Belal Halbouni headed home the equalizer, marking his first goal for the Whitecaps. The goal was set up by Ryan Gauld, who delivered an expertly placed free kick. Halbouni met the ball perfectly, directing it past Andrada and sending the home crowd, which numbered 9,613, roaring with delight.
Despite the late goal from the Whitecaps, both teams displayed strong defensive efforts. The match saw seven yellow cards issued, with four going to Monterrey’s players. The intense battle reflected the high stakes of this Champions Cup clash.
Looking forward, the second leg of the series will take place on March 12, 2025, at Estadio BBVA, home to Monterrey. The aggregate winner will progress to the quarterfinals, where they will face the victor of the match between Pumas UNAM and Alajuelense.
While the Whitecaps walked away with the much-needed late equalizer, they will face significant challenges as they try to advance. Historically, Monterrey is among the powerhouses of the tournament, having won the Champions Cup five times, the most recent being in 2021. Nevertheless, the Whitecaps aim to surpass their previous best performance—a semifinal finish during the 2016-17 season.
Vancouver's quest for success has taken shape early this season, as the team recently overcame Deportivo Saprissa to reach this stage of the tournament. After losing the opening match 2-1 on the road, they rebounded with courage, securing a decisive 2-0 victory at home to advance.
Meanwhile, Monterrey advanced to the Round of 16 after defeating Canadian Premier League side Forge FC with a formidable 5-0 aggregate score across both legs.
With both teams coming off recent successes, the stage is set for the upcoming clash at Monterrey’s home ground. Fans on both sides are eager to see who will triumph and secure their place in the quarterfinals.