Looking to secure consecutive home victories, Necaxa is set to host Monterrey, one of Liga MX’s heavyweights, at Estadio Victoria for an exciting Apertura clash on Wednesday night. Los Rayos are riding high after their first home win of the season, while Rayados are aiming to recover from their most significant defeat in recent memory.
Introduction
Necaxa’s journey in the 2024-25 Liga MX season began with a challenging match against Tigres at Estadio Universitario. The game was marked by a memorable performance from Andre-Pierre Gignac, the former French international and Marseille forward, who netted his 213th goal for Tigres, securing a narrow one-goal victory for the hosts. This setback left Necaxa eager to bounce back and collect their first points of the campaign.
Their fortunes turned around dramatically in their next fixture at Estadio Victoria, where Los Rayos delivered a scintillating performance to defeat Puebla 4-1. Diber Cambindo’s brace, along with goals from Agustin Palavecino and Kevin Rosero, ensured a comprehensive victory. This win not only boosted their morale but also positioned them seventh in the 18-team division, with the potential to climb as high as second place with another win.
Necaxa’s Season So Far
New Additions and Strategic Moves
Necaxa has been proactive in the transfer market, focusing on recruiting talented players approaching their peak years. This summer, the club welcomed Kevin Rosero and Raul Sandoval, alongside the 27-year-old River Plate loanee, Agustin Palavecino. These additions reflect Los Rayos’ commitment to strengthening their squad and improving their standings in Liga MX.
Eduardo Fentanes took over as Necaxa’s manager following a disappointing 2023-24 Apertura season, where the team finished at the bottom of the standings, managing only three wins and accumulating a mere 15 points from 17 matches. Despite the disparity in quality between Necaxa and Monterrey in recent seasons, both teams enter Wednesday’s clash on equal footing, with one win and one loss each in their opening two fixtures.
Key Players and Tactical Insights
- Diber Cambindo: The forward’s brace against Puebla showcased his goal-scoring prowess and will be crucial for Necaxa’s attacking efforts.
- Agustin Palavecino: On loan from River Plate, Palavecino’s experience and midfield creativity are expected to play a significant role.
- Kevin Rosero: Having scored off the bench, Rosero is pushing for a starting position and could make a substantial impact.
Monterrey’s Rollercoaster Start
Mixed Results and Tactical Adjustments
Monterrey began their season with a victory over Pachuca, thanks to a goal from Sergio Canales. The 33-year-old midfielder, with extensive European football experience and 11 caps for Spain, demonstrated his skill and leadership, guiding Rayados to a winning start. However, their momentum was abruptly halted by a shocking 4-0 defeat to Cruz Azul at Estadio BBVA. Carlos Rotondi’s double highlighted a dominant performance from the visitors, leaving Monterrey in need of a quick recovery.
Summer Signings and Squad Dynamics
Fernando Ortiz’s side has also been active in the transfer market, leveraging their Spanish connections to secure Oliver Torres on a permanent deal from Sevilla. Despite the recent setback, Monterrey’s squad boasts considerable talent and depth, which they will look to leverage as they aim to bounce back.
- Sergio Canales: The experienced midfielder will be key in orchestrating Monterrey’s play and providing leadership on the field.
- Oliver Torres: Although yet to feature due to a shoulder injury, Torres’ eventual inclusion is highly anticipated.
- Jorge Rodriguez: Set to continue anchoring the midfield in Torres’ absence.
Head-to-Head Record and Tactical Preview
Monterrey has dominated recent encounters with Necaxa, winning the last five meetings. The last time Necaxa triumphed over Rayados was in October 2021, courtesy of a dramatic 100th-minute goal from Rodrigo Aguirre. As both teams prepare for Wednesday’s clash, tactical adjustments and player form will be critical.
Necaxa’s Potential Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Unsain
- Defenders: Gonzalez, Pena, Oliveros, Mayorga
- Midfielders: Arce, Palavecino, Garnica, Paradela, Rosero
- Forward: Cambindo
Monterrey’s Potential Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Andrada
- Defenders: Guzman, Vegas, Medina
- Midfielders: Rodriguez, Cortizo, Canales, Aguirre, Corona
- Forwards: Vasquez, Beterame
Key Factors to Watch
Necaxa’s Confidence and Momentum
Following their emphatic win against Puebla, Necaxa will be brimming with confidence. Maintaining an unchanged XI could provide stability and consistency, though summer arrival Kevin Rosero’s push for a starting spot adds an intriguing dynamic.
Monterrey’s Response to Defeat
Rayados will be keen to rebound from their heavy loss to Cruz Azul. Tactical changes are likely, with Maximiliano Meza and Erick Aguirre potentially making way for fresh faces. The team’s ability to adapt and recover will be crucial in determining the outcome.
FAQs
What is the significance of this match for Necaxa?
Securing a second consecutive home win would significantly boost Necaxa’s standings and morale, potentially elevating them to second place in the league.
How has Monterrey’s recent form been?
Monterrey started with a win against Pachuca but suffered a heavy defeat to Cruz Azul, highlighting inconsistencies that they need to address.
Who are the key players to watch in this match?
For Necaxa, Diber Cambindo and Agustin Palavecino are crucial, while Sergio Canales and Jorge Rodriguez are key for Monterrey.
What tactical changes can we expect from Monterrey?
Following their recent defeat, Monterrey is likely to make several changes, possibly resting Maximiliano Meza and Erick Aguirre to introduce new dynamics.
Will new signings feature in this match?
Kevin Rosero for Necaxa and Oliver Torres for Monterrey (once fit) are new signings to watch, with Rosero pushing for a starting position.
Conclusion
Necaxa’s recent win has set the stage for an exciting encounter against Monterrey. With both teams eager to improve their standings and performance, Wednesday night’s clash at Estadio Victoria promises to be a compelling fixture. Necaxa’s confidence and Monterrey’s need to bounce back create a dynamic and unpredictable matchup that fans won’t want to miss.
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