Monterrey defeats Leon to secure first win of the season

After a disappointing start of the season for Monterrey, Los Regios played host to Leon, who previously tied against America last weekend.The home team, who boasts the most expensive squad in Liga MX, was under a lot of pressure from fans and staff to earn their first three points of the season.

The match began leaning towards the away team, who attacked nonstop for the majority of the half. Leon was close to scoring a few times with great opportunities from Sosa, Mena, and Macias. The Guanajuatense’s efforts were rewarded in the 18th minute when Ismael Sosa scored a header, getting past Marcelo Barovero and leaving him angry in the ground. Rayados tried to gain their concentration back hoping they could tie the game but Leon’s defense was standing solid in the back. In the 42nd minute, Angel Mena received the ball inside Marcelo Barovero’s area and scored the second goal for the away team with a strong right-footed kick. It looked as if the half was going to end in a 2 goal lead for Leon but Rogelio Funes Mori said otherwise when he got the first goal for Monterrey in the 45th minute, cutting the distance in the scores.

The second half surprisingly began with Monterrey creating great opportunities and getting close to scoring their second goal. In the first ten minutes, Monterrey showed more quality soccer than during the first half. The Rayados kept up the pace and obtained their second goal in the 67th minute with a header by defender Cesar Montes off of a free-kick. The game was tied but the Panzas Verdes was determined to get back the lead with another goal. However, their determination wasn’t enough and the last-minute goal by Rogelio Funes Mori gave Monterrey the victory and their first three points of the Apertura 2019.

Monterrey will visit Morelia hoping to get their second victory while Leon will rest and have two weeks to prepare for their match in Week 5.