Rayados Face Tough Challenge with Key Players Injured

MONTERREY, Mexico — Martín DeMichelis, head coach of Rayados, is preparing for a crucial match against Pachuca this Sunday at Estadio BBVA. However, he will have to navigate the game with the absence of three key players.

According to Diego Armando Medina from TUDN, Rayados will be without Spanish players Sergio Ramos, Sergio Canales, and Óliver Torres due to injuries. These losses could prove critical as the team aims for a direct ticket to the Quarterfinals or a second chance through the play-in series.

Óliver Torres has struggled with an ankle injury for several weeks and was unable to recover in time for the match. Meanwhile, Sergio Ramos and Sergio Canales are dealing with muscle injuries suffered in the last game.

The silver lining for Rayados is the possibility of having all three players back for future matches, contingent upon winning against Pachuca or losing and facing the winner of the other play-in series between Pumas and FC Juárez.

This Sunday, both play-in matches will take place, with the winner of the Rayados vs. Tuzos game earning an automatic spot in the Quarterfinals. The loser will have a second chance to qualify against the winner of the match between Pumas and Juárez.

This game is essential as it determines who will advance to the Quarterfinals of the Liguilla for the Clausura 2025 in May.