Monterrey, Mexico – CF Monterrey secured a 2-0 victory over Pumas UNAM in a crucial Liga MX Clausura 2025 play-in match held at the Estadio BBVA on May 5, 2025. The win ensures Monterrey’s advancement to the Liguilla quarterfinals, where they will face Toluca in a highly anticipated clash.
The Monterrey - Pumas match kicked off in front of a packed crowd, with both teams battling it out for a spot in the upcoming playoff stages. CF Monterrey, led by coach Martín Demichelis, entered the game with high expectations, given their strong home form. On the other hand, Pumas, under the management of Efraín Juárez, aimed to upset Monterrey and extend their season.
The Monterrey - Pumas encounter unfolded with intense pace, with Monterrey controlling most of the possession. However, despite creating several dangerous opportunities, the first half remained goalless, as both teams struggled to break the deadlock. Pumas showed resilience in defense, frustrating Monterrey’s attacking threats, while also failing to create clear chances of their own.
As the Monterrey - Pumas match progressed, the pressure mounted, and Monterrey broke through in the 67th minute. Germán Berterame’s brilliant assist found an unmarked Deossa, whose powerful shot found the back of the net, giving Monterrey a well-deserved lead. The goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy as the momentum swung in their favor.
Pumas, desperate to respond in the Monterrey - Pumas clash, tried to build an attack but was unable to find a breakthrough. Monterrey’s defense, led by veteran players, stood firm, neutralizing Pumas' efforts. As the match neared its final stages, Monterrey sealed the victory in the 89th minute. Deossa, once again the hero, scored his second goal of the match, extending the lead to 2-0 and confirming Monterrey’s progression to the next round.
Despite the defeat in the Monterrey - Pumas match, Pumas showed glimpses of their potential but failed to capitalize on their limited chances. Pumas coach Efraín Juárez made several substitutions in the latter stages, including bringing on Alí Ávila in an attempt to change the game’s dynamics. However, it was too little too late, and Monterrey’s superior performance earned them the win.
The Monterrey - Pumas game was not without controversy. In the final moments, tensions flared between the two teams, leading to a heated exchange between coaches Martín Demichelis and Efraín Juárez. Both coaches were sent off by the referee, adding further drama to an already intense Monterrey - Pumas encounter. The decision left both sides frustrated, but it did little to dampen Monterrey’s celebrations as they secured their spot in the Liguilla quarterfinals.
Monterrey will now face Toluca in what promises to be an exciting matchup. The team’s strong attacking play, coupled with their solid defensive foundation, makes them one of the favorites heading into the knockout stages of the tournament. On the other hand, Pumas must reflect on their missed opportunities as they bow out of the competition, having shown resilience but lacking the cutting edge needed to progress.
The Monterrey - Pumas game will be remembered for its intensity and drama, with Monterrey’s performance standing out. With this crucial win, Monterrey’s journey in the Clausura 2025 tournament continues, while Pumas faces an early exit, marking the end of their campaign this season. The Monterrey - Pumas clash highlighted the competitive nature of Liga MX and showcased the resilience of both teams, even though only one could advance.
