Paraguayan Richard Sánchez scores a spectacular goal, lifting Las Águilas to a 1-0 lead at the Estadio Gigante de Acero in an electrifying final.
Las Águilas del América have clinched the Mexican football championship, drawing 1-1 against Rayados del Monterrey, thus securing their 16th title in the club’s history. Richard Sánchez scored the championship-winning goal, helping the capital team prevail with a 3-2 aggregate score over the Monterrey squad, who momentarily equalized with Johan Rojas’ goal.
The America team has reached an unprecedented level in recent tournaments, becoming the first to achieve a trifecta of titles since the 1970s, a feat not previously accomplished by teams like Pumas, León, and Atlas. This historic win cements America’s reputation as one of the most successful teams in Mexican football history.
Coach André Jardine has placed himself among the club’s most successful managers, alongside legendary figures like José Antonio Roca and Carlos Reinoso. Despite not being favored entering the playoffs, Jardine showcased exceptional leadership throughout the tournament.
In the first half of the final, America dominated, highlighted by Sánchez’s stunning long-range strike that left Monterrey’s goalkeeper, ‘Mochis’ Cárdenas, with no chance. Before Sánchez’s goal, Henry Martín had a goal disallowed by the referee and VAR due to a narrow offside call, an unpopular decision among fans. Unfortunately, Martín later exited the match due to injury.
Rayados struggled to make an impact in the first half, managing only a single shot that was saved by goalkeeper Luis Malagón. In the second half, Monterrey improved, driven by urgency and the need to equalize, though America’s counter-attacks posed a constant threat.
A controversial moment arose when Rayados felt they deserved a penalty, but the referee chose not to award one. Monterrey coach Martín Demichelis made several strategic substitutions, ultimately leading to Rojas scoring the equalizer in the 84th minute with a powerful shot from the left side.
The match nearly turned in Monterrey’s favor in the dying moments when Sergio Canales struck the post. However, time ran out on Monterrey’s attempts to find a winning goal, as America maintained their composure.
With the guidance of André Jardine and a remarkable roster, America now sets their sights on achieving a fourth consecutive title. Their current triumph solidifies their status as the top team in the annals of Mexican football history, reflecting a bright and promising future for the club and its supporters.
Overall, this victory serves as a testament to America’s resilience and excellence in the sport, offering hope for their continued success in the future.