América Takes the Lead in Final with New Referee Controversy
In a highly anticipated showdown, América managed to take a 2-1 advantage over Monterrey in the first leg of the Liga MX Final, but the match was far from controversy-free. The game, held at Puebla’s Estadio Cuauhtémoc, saw several key moments that sparked heated debates, particularly surrounding the refereeing decisions that left Monterrey’s players fuming.
The opening minutes were intense, but it was Sergio Canales from Monterrey who made his mark first. With a stunning strike just outside the penalty area, Canales demonstrated his talent with a perfectly placed shot that rocketed into the top corner of the net. América's goalkeeper, Luis Malagón, could do nothing to stop it, and Monterrey fans erupted in celebration. However, América was quick to respond, and just four minutes later, they found the equalizer through Kevin Álvarez. After a scramble in Monterrey's penalty area, Álvarez seized the opportunity and fired the ball past goalkeeper Luis Cárdenas to make it 1-1.
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The tension only grew as the match progressed, especially when controversy surrounding a possible offside goal for América emerged. Henry Martín was accused of blocking the view of Monterrey's goalkeeper on the play, but the referee allowed the goal, sparking outrage from the Rayados’ side. Even former referees on sports panels could not agree on whether the goal was valid, with some arguing that Martín's position in the play might have been interfering, while others pointed out that he didn’t actively play the ball. Regardless, the referee’s decision stood, and América went into halftime with a 1-1 draw.
In the second half, América seized control of the match. The team dominated possession, wearing down Monterrey’s players, who had to defend desperately at times. After a series of near-misses, América finally took the lead. In the 49th minute, Alejandro Zendejas struck a powerful shot past Cárdenas, giving América a 2-1 advantage. The goal was celebrated by the passionate crowd in Puebla, adding to the excitement of the already thrilling final.
Despite a few more close calls, neither team could add to the score. América nearly had a third goal, but a potential offside was ruled against them, keeping the scoreline at 2-1. Monterrey had their chances as well, with Germán Berterame coming close to scoring, but América’s defense held firm. With only one goal separating the two sides, the final result leaves everything to play for in the second leg at Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA.
This first leg of the Liga MX Final was a perfect example of the intense rivalry between América and Monterrey. The game had everything: fantastic goals, tactical battles, and a heavy dose of controversy. Fans on both sides will be eagerly awaiting the return leg, where América will look to defend their slim advantage, and Monterrey will fight for a chance to turn the series around. If América holds on to their lead, they could secure an unprecedented third consecutive title, but Monterrey has shown they can overcome a deficit, as they did in their semifinal victory. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Apertura 2024 season.
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