Monterrey - América match preview

With two weeks remaining in the campaign Monterrey faces América and the most accurate comment regarding this match is that both clubs are looking forward to end of the Apertura season where they can look to regroup. It has simply been disastrous for both clubs with the Rayados sitting third from the bottom of the general table with América only two points above them.

Monterrey ended its seven match win-less streak with a 2-1 victory over Atlante defeated Tecos 3-1 and have lost only once in the last five encounters. Quite obviously this match is about "pride" and possibly jobs as both clubs will be making changes shortly. In addition the running sparring match between respective managers Monterrey's Ricardo Lavolpe and América's Ramón Díaz might provide interest to some but while ownership groups mention publicly that each is on firm footing, they are not. Both clubs have lacked discipline in play and adherence to the tactical plans and eventually the manager will pay.

Monterrey will be without Mauro Cejas, who is suspended and Jesús Arellano, Joél González, Luis Pérez and Híber Ruiz to injury. América is injury free but Carlos Sánchez is suspended. It is difficult to call one match more "critical" than others for Monterrey at this stage of the campaign but with the January transfer window opening shortly it is imperative to give go reason for upper tier players to stay. América has had a difficult time defending at home and the Rayados must build upon all opportunities.

I will report on the match as it concludes.