Monterrey and Pachuca Clash in Crucial Liga MX Play-In Match

MONTERREY, Mexico — The Liga MX playoffs are on the horizon, and excitement fills the air as CF Monterrey prepares to host Pachuca in a critical Play-In match on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. local time. The high-stakes encounter will unfold at the renowned Estadio BBVA, also called the ‘Gigante de Acero,’ with both teams vying for a coveted quarterfinal spot in the Clausura 2025 tournament.

This season has amplified the fierce rivalry between the clubs, with their last meeting on January 26, 2025, ending in a 3-2 victory for Pachuca. The upcoming match carries significant implications; the winner will advance directly to the playoffs, while the losing team will face the victor of the Juárez versus Pumas matchup in a subsequent Play-In.

Monterrey, led by coach Martín Demichelis, secured seventh place in the standouts with 28 points. However, the Rayados’ inconsistent performances have raised questions about their playoff readiness. In their last five matches, Monterrey has recorded two wins, two losses, and a draw, highlighted by a confidence-boosting 2-0 victory over León.

Pachuca, coached by Guillermo Almada, finished just behind Monterrey in eighth place, also with 28 points but trailing in goal difference. The Tuzos are looking to bounce back after a 2-1 defeat to Atlético de San Luis left them eager for redemption on a larger stage.

Injuries could influence both teams’ lineups. Monterrey’s Sergio Ramos is dealing with a muscle injury, and both Sergio Canales and Oliver Torres are doubtful as they recover. Ramos’s absence would weigh heavily on Monterrey’s defense. However, Jesús ‘Tecatito’ Corona is set to rejoin the squad, bolstering their attacking capabilities.

Pachuca has injury concerns as well but aims to field a strong team. Expected starters include goalkeeper Carlos Moreno, defenders Jorge Berlanga and Eduardo Bauermann, and a midfield pairing of Pedro Pedraza and Elias Montiel. The attack will rely on the talents of Alexander Sigala and Salomón Rondón.

With tensions high, both teams recognize the match’s stakes. A win guarantees progression into the quarterfinals and sets the tempo for the playoffs. Coaches Demichelis and Almada will work to instill confidence in their players ahead of this anticipated showdown.

Fans can watch the match live on Canal 5 and TUDN in Mexico, with streaming options available on ViX Premium and fuboTV. For international viewers, the game will be broadcast at various times: 10:30 p.m. in Argentina, 8:30 p.m. in Colombia and Peru, and 9:30 p.m. in Venezuela and Chile.

The electric atmosphere at Estadio BBVA as Monterrey faces Pachuca is sure to keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Only one team will advance; the other must regroup for another chance at playoff glory.