Introduction
The opening match of the Clausura 2025 quarter-finals in Liga MX will take place at the BBVA Stadium, home of Monterrey, against Toluca. The contrasting situations of both teams add intrigue to this series.
Team Backgrounds
Toluca: As the table-toppers in the league phase, Toluca qualified directly for the Liguilla. They have not played a match in nearly three weeks, giving them 18 days to prepare for this crucial encounter.
Monterrey: Ranked eighth after the league phase, Monterrey had to navigate two Play-In matches. They recently played on May 4th and will face Toluca just three days later, followed by a match against León on May 10th.
Coach’s Perspective
Toluca’s head coach, Antonio Mohamed, acknowledges the challenge of regaining match rhythm but views it as an opportunity rather than a disadvantage.
“We believe we need to quickly adapt to the lack of rhythm. It’s not an excuse; we were aware of this situation beforehand. However, Monterrey will play three games in six days and must come to Toluca for the return leg. We aim to play well tomorrow and let the game unfold in our favor.”
Monterrey’s Recent Form
Despite the short rest period, Monterrey managed to secure their Liguilla spot with a 2-0 victory over Pumas in the Play-In’s final match. The team, under coach Martín Demichelis, aims to reconnect with fans and challenge for the Liga MX title.
“We understand the significance of representing Monterrey, the project that this team embodies. We know our fans’ desire for success and the responsibility of wearing Monterrey’s colors.” – Defensive player Ricardo Chávez
Historical Context
Toluca and Monterrey have met thrice in Liguilla during short soccer seasons in Mexico, with Toluca winning twice (Apertura 2005 final and Apertura 2006 quarter-finals) and Monterrey triumphing in the Apertura 2009 semi-finals.
After 16 years, they meet again in the Liguilla phase, with an added layer of intrigue as Antonio Mohamed, Toluca’s current coach, led Monterrey to Liga MX glory in the Apertura 2019 season.
Match Details
Monterrey will be without coach Martín Demichelis (suspended after Play-In red card) and defender Sergio Ramos (injured right leg) for the first leg against Toluca.
Alongside Toluca vs Monterrey, Pachuca will host America on the same day at the Hidalgo Stadium. The following day, Necaxa will face Tigres in Aguascalientes, while León will play Cruz Azul in Guanajuato.
The return matches will be held on Saturday (Toluca vs America, both as home teams) and Sunday (Cruz Azul vs Tigres, both as home teams).
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation of both teams going into the Liguilla? Toluca, as league leaders, qualified directly. Monterrey had to win two Play-In matches to secure their spot.
- How have the teams performed historically in Liguilla? Toluca has two wins, while Monterrey secured one victory in their previous Liguilla meetings.
- What are the coaches’ perspectives on their respective team’s preparation? Antonio Mohamed views the lack of match rhythm as an opportunity, while Martín Demichelis aims to reconnect with fans and challenge for the title.
- Who are the key players and absences for this match? Monterrey will be without coach Demichelis and defender Ramos. Both teams boast experienced players, including Sergio Ramos for Monterrey and Antonio Mohamed’s previous success with the club.
