Liga MX Powerhouse Monterrey eliminates LAFC from Leagues Cup with late Goal from Funes Mori.
Pasadena, California – The evening boasted clear skies and a remarkably pleasant 70-degree temperature. LAFC played host to Los Rayados de Monterrey, a crucial match whose outcome would determine their advancement to the Leagues Cup semi-final against Nashville.
LAFC sprang into action as soon as the game kicked off. In a stunning turn of events, less than a minute into the match, the Black and Gold were granted a penalty kick. Dénis Bouanga drew the foul, with Monterrey’s Stefan Medina being penalized. Seizing the opportunity, the French striker swiftly netted a goal, giving his team a 1-0 lead just two minutes into the game.
The first half commenced with Los Rayados largely dictating the flow of the game. Possession favored the visiting team, with a distribution of 68% in their favor compared to LAFC’s 32%. However, Monterrey struggled to find the finishing touch needed to create any significant scoring opportunities. Despite this, a sudden burst of action saw LAFC capitalizing on a rapid 3-pass fast break, leading to a goal by Mateusz Bogusz. The assist came from his French teammate Bouanga, extending their lead to 2-0. The first half concluded with the score remaining 2-0.
As the second half unfolded, the initial minutes mirrored the tone of the first. Monterrey continued to dominate possession, maintaining a 73% share compared to LAFC’s 27%. In the 66th minute, Kellyn Acosta committed a penalty in the box, resulting in Monterrey being awarded a penalty kick. Sergio Canales successfully converted the kick, narrowing LAFC’s lead to 2-1. Monterrey’s control of the second half persisted, while LAFC adopted a counterattacking strategy. Despite several compelling opportunities for the Black and Gold to score, Monterrey’s goalkeeper Esteban Andrade delivered exceptional saves.
Los Rayados steadfastly executed their game plan, and their efforts paid off in the 80th minute with an own goal by LAFC, leveling the score at 2-2. A momentary hush fell over the team, and the cheers of the few Rayados fans were audible and resounding. Sergi Palencia was held accountable for the own goal. As the game progressed, Monterrey maintained relentless pressure, and in the 88th minute, they dealt a crushing blow to LAFC’s hopes with a goal that put them ahead 3-2. The final whistle blew, leaving LAFC stunned, and sealing their elimination from the Leagues Cup tournament.
