CF Monterrey secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Santos Laguna in a dramatic Liga MX showdown at Estadio BBVA, with Lucas Ocampos delivering the decisive blow and late controversy sealing Santos’ fate.
Ocampos Delivers as Monterrey Bounces Back
After a turbulent week that saw Monterrey suffer a humiliating 6-2 defeat to Toluca and lose star midfielder Sergio Canales to hamstring surgery, the pressure was on for Rayados to respond. Canales, the team’s top scorer and a Golden Boot contender, was sidelined for this crucial match, leaving fans anxious about the club’s prospects.
But it was Lucas Ocampos who stepped up, finding the net in the 36th minute after a slick assist from Gerardo Arteaga. Monterrey dominated possession, controlling
60% of the ball and registering 14 shots to Santos Laguna’s 10, but struggled to convert their chances into a more comfortable lead.
Santos Laguna’s Struggles Continue
Santos Laguna, already languishing in 13th place and flirting with the relegation zone, showed flashes of resistance but failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Their hopes of a late comeback were dashed when striker Anthony Lozano was sent off deep into stoppage time, reducing the visitors to ten men and all but ending their challenge.
The defeat extends Santos’ miserable run, with only three wins in their last eleven matches. Manager Francisco’s side now faces mounting pressure as the season enters its final stretch.
Key Stats and Tactical Notes
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Monterrey: 60% possession, 14 shots (3 on target), 15 fouls
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Santos Laguna: 40% possession, 10 shots (2 on target), 14 fouls
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Red Card: Anthony Lozano (Santos Laguna, 90+5’)
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Formation: Santos Laguna lined up in a 4-1-4-1, with Carlos López in goal and a backline featuring Bruno Amione and Kevin Balanta.
Despite the absence of Canales, Monterrey’s midfield held firm, and the defense limited Santos’ attacking threats. Key substitutions included Michell Rodríguez replacing Ocampos late in the game as Rayados sought to protect their slender lead.
What This Means for the Liga MX Table
With this win, Monterrey remains in second place with 25 points from 11 matches, trailing league leaders Toluca only on goal differential. Santos Laguna, meanwhile, stays stuck in 13th with just 10 points, their relegation worries deepening as the regular season winds down.
Looking Ahead
Monterrey’s ability to grind out a result without their talisman Canales will boost confidence, but questions remain about their attacking depth. For Santos Laguna, the road ahead looks perilous unless they can reverse their slide and find some attacking spark.
Takeaway: Monterrey’s resilience keeps them in the title hunt, while Santos Laguna’s woes deepen, setting up a tense finish to the Liga MX regular season.
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