Monterrey Secures Liga MX Semifinal Spot with Dramatic Last-Minute Winner

Monterrey advanced to the Liga MX Apertura semifinals in stunning fashion on Saturday night. The Rayados defeated Club América 2-1 in a chaotic quarterfinal second leg. The victory at Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes sent them through 3-2 on aggregate.

German Berterame scored the decisive goal in the 94th minute. His dramatic header sealed the victory after América had fought back to level the tie.

Match Turns on Late Red Card and Stoppage-Time Heroics

Monterrey entered the match with a 2-0 lead from the first leg. América quickly erased that advantage on the night. Alejandro Zendejas scored in the 30th minute to give the hosts hope.

Raúl Zúñiga then equalized the aggregate score early in the second half. The momentum was entirely with América. A red card for América’s Jorge Rodríguez in the 83rd minute changed the game’s complexion.

Playing against ten men, Monterrey pressed for a winner. According to match reports, the Rayados created several late chances. Berterame’s powerful header in the final moments of stoppage time was the final, decisive act.

Coach Torrent’s Philosophy Bears Fruit in High-Pressure Moment

The victory marks a significant achievement for manager Domènec Torrent. The Spanish coach only took charge of the team earlier this year. His possession-oriented style was tested under intense playoff pressure.

Overcoming a hostile away environment shows the team’s growing resilience. Advancing deep into the Liguilla is the immediate goal for any Liga MX contender. This win proves Monterrey can handle the knockout format’s demands.

The team now awaits its semifinal opponent. Other quarterfinal matches will determine who they face next. The path to the championship remains open.

Monterrey’s Liga MX semifinal berth was earned through sheer determination at the death. This type of victory can define a team’s entire championship campaign.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who scored the winning goal for Monterrey?

Argentine forward German Berterame scored the winning goal. His header in the 94th minute decided the match. It was a crucial moment in the club’s playoff run.

What was the aggregate score of the quarterfinal?

Monterrey advanced 3-2 on aggregate. They won the first leg 2-0 at home. The 2-1 second-leg victory secured their spot in the next round.

Why was the match so dramatic?

América fought back to level the aggregate score at 2-2. A late red card then shifted momentum back to Monterrey. The winning goal came in the final seconds of the match.

Who is Monterrey’s manager?

Domènec Torrent is the head coach of Monterrey. He is a Spanish manager who joined the club in 2025. His team showed strong tactical discipline to secure the win.

What happens next for Monterrey?

The team progresses to the Liga MX Apertura semifinals. They will face the winner of another quarterfinal tie. The quest for the championship continues.