With America’s consent, Striped launched an attack and entered the box from the start of the match, though without creating clear goal-scoring opportunities.
Little by little, America took control of the ball and in the 24th minute, they took the lead with a stunning goal from Richard Sánchezwho took advantage of a pass from Alex Zendejas and from outside the box placed the ball into the top corner.
From that moment, Monterrey lost intensity in the first half. Disorganized and lacking ideas, they failed to create danger for goalkeeper Luis Malagon.
Monterrey fights back, but falls short
Monterrey started the second half with an aggregate score of 1-3 against them. Needing to score two goals without conceding to force extra time, the team coached by Argentine manager Martin Demichelis pushed forward and displayed a more offensive approach.
The home team struggled due to their lack of efficiency. In the 49th minute, the Colombian Stephen Medina shot off a pass from the Spaniard Sergio Canalesand in the 74th, Roberto de la Rosa shot wide.
With patience and under the guidance of Brazilian coach Andre Jardine, America waited for a counterattack opportunity. In the 75th minute, the Uruguayan Rodrigo Aguirre was one-on-one with goalkeeper Luis Cardenaswho managed to keep the ball.
With five minutes left, Monterrey finally capitalized on their dominance. Johan Rojas received a pass from Sergio Canales and with a right-footed shot made it 1-1, leaving Striped one goal away from forcing extra time.
Fueled by their fans, who finally erupted in support, Striped gave everything to score the goal they needed to stay alive. In the 88th minute, the Chilean Sebastian Vegas almost managed to do so with a shot that hit the crossbar.
However, America maintained defensive order against a relentless opponent and managed to preserve the draw to claim the 2024 Apertura title.
Belgium
