In their quest to secure consecutive home victories, Necaxa will host Monterrey, one of Mexican football’s heavyweights, at Estadio Victoria for a Liga MX Apertura showdown on Wednesday night. Necaxa, who recently celebrated their first home win of the season, face a Monterrey side reeling from their most significant defeat of the decade last Sunday.
Introduction
The new season of Liga MX has already seen its fair share of drama and excitement. Necaxa, often referred to as Los Rayos, have had a mixed start to their campaign. Their opening day defeat to Tigres was a tough pill to swallow, especially with Andre-Pierre Gignac’s record-breaking goal. However, they bounced back impressively with a dominant performance against Puebla, securing a 4-1 victory.
Monterrey, known as Rayados, have also had a rollercoaster start. They began their season with a win against Pachuca, courtesy of a goal from the seasoned Sergio Canales. However, their momentum was abruptly halted by a shocking 4-0 defeat to Cruz Azul, leaving them desperate to regain their footing.
Necaxa’s Recent Form
A Mixed Start to the Season
Necaxa’s season began with a challenging fixture against Tigres at Estadio Universitario. The match was decided by a single goal from Andre-Pierre Gignac, marking his 213th goal for Tigres. This early setback was a tough start for Los Rayos, who were eager to make a strong impression in the new campaign.
A Resounding Victory Against Puebla
Determined to bounce back, Necaxa put on a stellar performance in their next match. Hosting Puebla at Estadio Victoria, they secured a convincing 4-1 victory. Diber Cambindo was the star of the show, netting twice, while Agustin Palavecino and Kevin Rosero also got on the scoresheet. This victory not only boosted their points tally but also their confidence.
Current Standings and Potential
After two matches, Necaxa find themselves in seventh place in the 18-team division. Their recent victory means that with another win, they could potentially climb to second place. This would be a remarkable turnaround for a team that finished at the bottom of the table last season.
Monterrey’s Journey So Far
Strong Start Against Pachuca
Monterrey kicked off their season with a hard-fought win against Pachuca. Sergio Canales, bringing a wealth of experience from European football, scored the decisive goal, demonstrating why he has been capped 11 times for Spain’s national team.
A Crushing Defeat to Cruz Azul
However, Monterrey’s early optimism was shattered in their next fixture. Facing Cruz Azul at Estadio BBVA, they suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat. Carlos Rotondi’s brace highlighted a dominant performance from the visitors, leaving Monterrey with much to ponder.
Transfer Activity and Squad Changes
This summer, Monterrey have been active in the transfer market, leveraging their Spanish connections. They secured the services of Oliver Torres from Sevilla, adding depth and quality to their squad. Despite their recent setback, Monterrey will be keen to turn things around and climb the league table.
Key Players to Watch
Necaxa’s New Signings
Necaxa have made some strategic acquisitions during the summer transfer window. Kevin Rosero and Raul Sandoval have joined the club, adding fresh talent to the squad. Additionally, Agustin Palavecino, on loan from River Plate, has already made a significant impact.
Monterrey’s European Influence
Monterrey’s squad boasts several players with experience in European leagues. Sergio Canales, a key figure in their midfield, brings a wealth of experience from his time in Spain. New signing Oliver Torres is yet to make his debut due to a shoulder injury, but his arrival has been highly anticipated.
Tactical Approaches
Necaxa’s Formation and Strategy
Necaxa’s recent success has been built on a solid defensive foundation and an effective attacking strategy. Manager Eduardo Fentanes has favored a balanced approach, with a focus on maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities.
- Defensive Setup
- Alexis Pena and Agustin Oliveros form a strong central defensive partnership.
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Full-backs Gonzalez and Mayorga provide width and support in both defense and attack.
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Midfield and Attack
- The midfield trio of Arce, Palavecino, and Garnica offers a blend of creativity and work rate.
- Cambindo leads the line, supported by wide players Paradela and Rosero.
Monterrey’s Adjustments
Following their heavy defeat, Monterrey manager Fernando Ortiz is likely to make changes to his starting XI. The focus will be on tightening up the defense and finding a better balance in midfield.
- Defensive Reinforcements
- Andrada will continue in goal, with Guzman, Vegas, and Medina forming the backline.
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Rodriguez is expected to hold the midfield, providing protection to the defense.
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Attacking Options
- Canales will be key in linking play between the midfield and attack.
- Vasquez and Beterame will look to provide the cutting edge in the final third.
Predicted Lineups
Necaxa’s Possible Starting XI
- Unsain
- Gonzalez, Pena, Oliveros, Mayorga
- Arce, Palavecino, Garnica, Paradela, Rosero
- Cambindo
Monterrey’s Possible Starting XI
- Andrada
- Guzman, Vegas, Medina
- Rodriguez, Cortizo, Canales, Aguirre, Corona
- Vasquez, Beterame
FAQs
What is the current form of Necaxa?
Necaxa have had a mixed start to the season, losing their opener but bouncing back with a convincing 4-1 win against Puebla.
How did Monterrey perform in their last match?
Monterrey suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Cruz Azul, their worst loss in recent memory.
Who are the key players to watch for Necaxa?
Diber Cambindo and Agustin Palavecino are key players for Necaxa, having made significant contributions in their recent victory.
What changes are expected in Monterrey’s lineup?
Following their defeat, Monterrey manager Fernando Ortiz is likely to make changes, with Maximiliano Meza and Erick Aguirre potentially being demoted to the bench.
What are the tactical approaches of both teams?
Necaxa will look to build on their solid defensive foundation and effective attacking strategy, while Monterrey will aim to tighten their defense and find better balance in midfield.
Conclusion
Necaxa will be looking to build on their recent success and end their five-game losing streak against Monterrey. The visitors, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back from their humiliating defeat and regain their form. With both teams having much to play for, this promises to be an exciting and closely contested match.
