Monterrey players who could make their ‘Clásico Regio’ debuts
Up to four Rayados starlets could get their first taste of the ‘Clásico Regio’, the clash against city rivals Tigres UNAL.
Within the current Rayados roster, there are several players who have yet to play a Clásico Regio - one of the biggest games of the calendar, much more than just three points are at stake - for the entire city of Monterrey, it is also about pride. In total, seven players have never experienced games against city rivals Tigres UNAL: César Ramos, Víctor Guzmán, Axel Grijalva, Luis Sánchez, Omar Govea, João Rojas and Jordi Cortizo.
You might also enjoy
Of those seven players, four have a high chance of playing when Monterrey face Tigres at the Estadio Universitario on Saturday. One player who is almost certain to star is Víctor ‘El Toro’ Guzmán, who has been a constant in the Rayados’ defence since Week 4.
As for the other three, we will have to wait and see what coach Víctor Manuel Vucetich has in mind. Defensive midfielder Omar Govea has made 10 appearances this season - all of them off the bench. It’s been a similar story for right winger Jordi Cortizo, who has made just one start - in the team’s last outing against Pachuca - his second half strike handed the Albiazules victory.
Then there is João Rojas. The left winger only recently returned to the team after a long period out recovering from a cruciate ligament injury. He was on the bench in the last three games but Vucetich has yet to use him.
It is highly unlikely that we will see third-choice goalkeeper César Ramos or youth team players Axel Grijalva and Luis Sánchez in the derby. None of the three have featured so far this season.
When is the ‘Clásico Regio’?
The 129th edition of the Clásico Regio will be played on Saturday 18 March 2023, kicking off at 7:05 p.m. local time at the Estadio Universitario. The game will be televised live by IZZI.