In a tournament filled with ups and downs, America’s players and coach faced criticism regarding their performance and their potential to reclaim the championship title. However, they silenced the doubters on Sunday by making history.
With a goal from Paraguayan Richard Sánchez in the first half, America drew 1-1 against Monterrey, securing the Apertura title and becoming the first team in the short tournament era to achieve a three-peat championship.
Sánchez scored from outside the box in the 24th minute, and although Colombian Johan Rojas equalized in the 85th minute, the Eagles clinched the final series with an aggregate score of 3-2.
“This victory tastes different because no one considered us favorites. Nobody in Mexican football believed in us, but we knew we had the capability to be competitive,” said Brazilian coach André Jardine.
This victory marks America’s 16th title, widening the gap between them and their closest rival, Chivas, who have 12 championships.
America was one of four teams to win back-to-back titles since 1996 when Mexico began hosting two tournaments per year. The others—Pumas, León, and Atlas—fell short in their attempts to secure a third consecutive title.
This is also the second three-peat in America’s history, with their first occurring in traditional long tournaments between 1983 and 1985.
Previously, America had never won a championship while playing a final outside of their home stadium. “We said we would be the first to win a tournament away from home, and we did it, making the biggest club in the country even greater,” stated Spaniard Álvaro Fidalgo.
On their path to the championship, America faced a challenging playoff, defeating Tijuana, the second seed Toluca, and the top seed Cruz Azul, before overcoming Monterrey, who finished fifth in the regular season.
“This was the toughest playoff of the three; we defeated three strong rivals, but we delivered a competitive performance,” Jardine said. “This victory is a testament to the team’s commitment and mental strength.”
With this win, America also settled a score with Monterrey, who defeated them in the 2019 Apertura final.
Monterrey, managed by Argentine Martín Demichelis, saw their hopes for a sixth title dashed despite controlling the ball early in the match, generating just one shot on target saved by goalkeeper Luis Malagón.
America regained control and nearly scored when a goal by Henry Martín was disallowed for offside in the 18th minute. They took the lead with Sánchez’s precise shot to the right corner of the goal.
Monterrey threatened to equalize shortly after, with Argentine Germán Berterame’s attempt saved by Malagón. America responded with a shot from Alejandro Zendejas that was blocked.
In the second half, Monterrey pressed for danger with a header from John Stefan Medina, also saved by Malagón. Late in the game, Monterrey brought on offensive players, and Roberto de la Rosa narrowly missed with a low shot.
Monterrey finally leveled when Rojas broke free on the left and found the net in the 85th minute. They came close to a second goal with a shot from Sebastián Vegas hitting the crossbar in the 87th minute.
Despite dominating the final minutes, Monterrey could not find the equalizer needed to send the final into extra time.
This win not only adds to America’s remarkable legacy but also highlights the team’s resilience and ability to rise above criticism, showcasing the spirit of determination that resides within the club.
Summary: America’s triumph in the Apertura final against Monterrey secured their third consecutive title, making them the first team in short tournament history to achieve this feat. Coach André Jardine praised the team’s commitment, while the victory also closed a chapter against Monterrey after their previous finals defeat. Despite facing doubts and challenges, America showcased their ability to overcome adversities, reinforcing their status as one of Mexico’s premier football clubs.