Monterrey’s América defeat ends Clausura 2023 leaders’ unbeaten run

Monterrey missed an opportunity to confirm their candidacy for the Clausura 2023 title on Saturday, the regular-season leaders going down 2-1 to Club América on matchday 14.

América come from behind to beat Liga MX leaders

When Maxi Meza’s fine first-half strike gave the visitors the lead at the Estadio Azteca, it appeared to be business as usual for Víctor Manuel Vucetich’s men.

However, goals by Diego Valdés and Federico Viñas turned the scoreboard on its head, before Joao Rojas spurned a chance to score a last-gasp equaliser when Luis Malagón saved the Monterrey winger’s penalty.

Monterrey were unbeaten since Clausura 2023 opener

Although Rayados are already certain of their postseason spot, Saturday’s defeat is sure to be a significant blow to the club’s fans, as it ended the team’s run of 12 matches without defeat. Monterrey went into the clash at the Azteca on a four-game winning streak, having suffered their only defeat of the Clausura 2023 against Chivas Guadalajara in early January, on the tournament’s opening matchday.

And to make things worse for Monterrey, goalkeeper Esteban Andrada was shown a stoppage-time red card for handling the ball outside of his penalty area.

For América, victory over Rayados halted a run of five games without beating the five-time Mexican champions. Las Águilas had not won against Monterrey since February 2020.

See also:

América move up Liga MX table

While Rayados remain top of the regular-season standings, two points clear of second-placed Toluca, América have leapfrogged Club León into third.