Club America vs. Monterrey: The 2024 Liga MX Apertura Final Showdown
It’s time to buckle up, soccer fans! The 2024 Liga MX Apertura final is here, and it’s shaping up to be an epic battle between two of Mexico’s most exciting teams. With Club America and Monterrey set to clash over two legs, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The first leg kicks off on Thursday at Club America’s home turf, while Monterrey will host the decisive second leg on Sunday. By the end of the week, we’ll know who will be crowned the Liga MX champions. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about these two finalists and what’s at stake.
Club America
(Regular season: 8th place, 8W-3D-6L)
How They Got Here
It hasn’t been a smooth ride for Club America this season. Injuries and a packed schedule led to inconsistent performances, leaving fans frustrated at times. But when it mattered most, the Mexico City giants found their groove. With all other competitions behind them, they’ve lost just once in their last 12 games. That’s the kind of form you want heading into a final.
In the playoffs, head coach André Jardine made a bold tactical shift to a five-man backline, and it’s paid off. They edged past Toluca in the quarterfinals and pulled off a dramatic semifinal comeback against top-seeded Cruz Azul. It’s not the high-possession style fans are used to, but it’s been effective. And let’s be real—winning is all that matters when you’re chasing a third straight title.
Why They’ll Win (and Why They Might Not)
- Why They’ll Win: Experience. Jardine and his squad know what it takes to win, having already secured the last two Liga MX titles. The switch to a more cautious, defensive style has made them tougher to break down, even if it’s not as flashy as their usual approach.
- Why They Might Not: The new style comes with risks. By creating fewer chances in the final third, they’re walking a fine line. In fact, three of their four playoff games featured their lowest chance-creation numbers of the season. If their attack falters, it could spell trouble.
Player to Watch
Keep an eye on 23-year-old academy product Ramón Juarez. The young central defender has been a rock at the back, racking up 30 clearances in the semifinal legs alone. Oh, and he’s not just about defense—he also scored a crucial goal against Cruz Azul. If Jardine sticks with his defensive game plan, Juarez will be key to shutting down Monterrey’s attack. Could a call-up to Mexico’s senior national team be next for this rising star?
What a Title Would Mean
For Club America, a 16th championship would further cement their status as the kings of Mexican soccer. Already the all-time leaders with 15 titles, they’d become the first team in Liga MX’s short-season era to win three consecutive championships. It would also solidify Jardine’s reputation as the league’s top coach. While northern clubs like Monterrey and Tigres have been making waves with their financial muscle, this title would remind everyone that Club America is still the team to beat.
Monterrey
(Regular season: 5th place, 9W-4D-4L)
How They Got Here
Monterrey’s season has been a tale of two halves. A sluggish summer saw them go 3W-3D-4L across all competitions, but they’ve turned things around in spectacular fashion, winning five of their last six games. Under new head coach Martin Demichelis, the team has finally started to click, with standout performances from stars like Sergio Canales, Germán Berterame, and Oliver Torres. Once seen as a collection of talented individuals, Los Rayados are finally playing like a team.
Why They’ll Win (and Why They Might Not)
- Why They’ll Win: Depth. Monterrey arguably has the deepest roster in North American soccer. Demichelis has options galore, and the team is riding high after a dominant 5-1 semifinal win over Atletico San Luis.
- Why They Might Not: Defensive frailties. Despite their firepower up front, Monterrey has struggled at the back. They rank third-to-last in aerial duels won and just 10th in overall duels won. They’ve also conceded five goals in their last three playoff games. Against a team like Club America, that could be costly.
Player to Watch
All eyes will be on Sergio Canales, Monterrey’s midfield maestro. The 33-year-old Spaniard has been in sensational form, with four goals and four assists in his last six games. His vision and leadership make him the heartbeat of this team. If Monterrey lifts the trophy, you can bet Canales will have played a starring role.
What a Title Would Mean
For Monterrey, a sixth championship would be a game-changer. Despite their massive investments in players and facilities, they’ve only won one title in the last decade. A win here would not only shift the spotlight away from traditional powerhouses like Club America and Chivas but also give them momentum heading into the 2025 Club World Cup. It would be a statement that the balance of power in Mexican soccer is shifting north.
Predicted Scoreline
Defense wins championships, and Club America’s experience and pragmatism give them the edge. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, expect them to grind out a narrow 1-0 win in Monterrey. With a 2-1 aggregate score, Club America should claim the 2024 Liga MX Apertura title.
Originally Written by: Cesar Hernandez
