Leaders and Contenders: Cruz Azul, Monterrey, Toluca, and America
The Liga MX Apertura 2025 has completed nine of its seventeen regular-season games, with Cruz Azul, Monterrey, Toluca, and America leading the charge. The table is beginning to take shape as teams vie for Liguilla spots.
Cruz Azul: The Unbeaten Force
Cruz Azul remains the only team without a loss in the Apertura 2025, extending their winning streak to seven games with a 3-2 victory over Bravos de Juárez. Under the guidance of Nicolás Larcamón, the Máquina has only drawn twice – against Mazatlán and Atlas – with all other results being wins.
Although they are not close to Chivas’ record of 14 unbeaten games in a short tournament (Invierno 2001), Cruz Azul is on track to match their own record of 12 unbeaten games from Invierno 1997. This week, Cruz Azul will face Querétaro and Tijuana in a double-game week, aiming to extend their winning streak.
European Debut: Anthony Martial Joins Monterrey
In the match between Monterrey and America, which ended in a 2-2 draw, another significant event took place: the debut of French forward Anthony Martial. He entered the game in the 90th minute, attempting to secure Monterrey’s eighth consecutive win after they lost their lead in the final stages. Although Martial managed only six minutes of play, his presence showcased the growing trend of European players in Liga MX alongside André-Pierre Gignac (Tigres), Allan Saint-Maximin (America), and Sebastien Salles-Lamonge (Atlético de San Luis).
In Decline: Chivas and Pachuca Struggle
Chivas and Pachuca have experienced inconsistent performances, with both teams suffering losses against Toluca and Querétaro, respectively. Chivas was thrashed 0-3 by the reigning Liga MX champions, with Toluca’s Alexis Vega shining with two assists and a goal, alongside an opponent’s dismissal. Despite being jeered at Estadio Akron, Vega ensured Toluca’s sixth win of the season.
Pachuca, once leading in four of the first five games, now finds itself in Play-In territory. Since Jornada 4, ‘Jimmy’ Lozano’s team has been unable to secure a victory.
Surprises: Querétaro and Tijuana Defy Expectations
Querétaro, having won only once before Jornada 9, has been among the worst-performing teams in the last eight games. However, they managed to upset Pachuca 1-0 at Estadio Hidalgo, securing their first away win in Liga MX since April 20. Despite this victory, Querétaro remains in the second-to-last position, just above Puebla.
Tijuana surprised many by trouncing León 5-0 at Estadio Caliente, propelling them to the fifth position in the standings, surpassing Tigres and Pumas, who drew 1-1 at CU.
Liguilla Direct Spots After Jornada 9
- Cruz Azul (23 points, +9 goal difference)
- Monterrey (22 points, +9 goal difference)
- Toluca (19 points, +11 goal difference)
- America (18 points, +8 goal difference)
- Tijuana (16 points, +9 goal difference)
- Tigres (16 points, +8 goal difference)
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the leading teams in Liga MX Apertura 2025? Cruz Azul, Monterrey, Toluca, and America are the top contenders.
- What is Cruz Azul’s current record? Cruz Azul remains unbeaten with seven consecutive victories.
- Who is the latest European player to join Liga MX? Anthony Martial, a French forward, recently debuted for Monterrey.
- Which teams are struggling in the league? Chivas and Pachuca have experienced inconsistent results, with recent losses.
- What are the surprise teams in this season’s Liga MX? Querétaro and Tijuana have defied expectations with notable performances.
- What are the current Liguilla direct spots? Cruz Azul leads with 23 points, followed closely by Monterrey and Toluca.
