América and Monterrey are set to compete for the Liga MX championship in the Apertura 2024 final. After six months of intense competition, these two teams will face off in a two-leg series, marking only the second time in their history that they meet for the league title. América secured their spot in the final by overcoming the favorites, Cruz Azul, with an aggregate score of 4-3 in the semifinals, while Monterrey convincingly defeated San Luis with an aggregate score of 6-3.
For América, the reigning champions, winning a third consecutive title would make them the first team ever to achieve this feat in the short tournament format. Under the guidance of Brazilian coach André Jardine, América aims to add a second three-peat to their achievements, having previously accomplished this across the 1983-84, 1984-85, and Prode 85 tournaments. A victory would enhance their record as the most successful club in Liga MX history with a total of 16 titles.
On the flip side, Monterrey is making their return to the finals after five years, a period marked by expensive projects that failed to deliver during the playoffs. The team underwent a coaching change earlier this season with the arrival of former Argentinian national player Martín Demichelis after the dismissal of Fernando Ortiz.
This final also features the two most valuable squads in Mexico. According to Transfermarkt, América boasts a market value of €96.4 million, making them the most valuable team in Liga MX, followed closely by Monterrey at €82.1 million. The depth and individual talent within both squads provide their coaches with strategic options, making this showdown even more compelling.
Looking back, their last face-off in a final was in December 2019, when Monterrey triumphed 4-2 in a penalty shootout against América, overcoming a challenging situation that saw them change coaches shortly before the playoffs.
The first leg of the final will kick off at 8:00 PM on December 12 at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc in Puebla, as América plays at an alternate venue due to renovations at the Estadio Azteca. In Mexico, the match will be broadcasted live on Televisa, TV Azteca, and ViX. The second leg is scheduled for December 15 at 7:00 PM at the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, with the same broadcast options available. If the aggregate score is tied after regulation, two 15-minute extra periods will be played, followed by a penalty shootout if necessary.
This highly anticipated final presents an exciting opportunity for both teams, promising a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and passion as they vie for the prestigious title. Fans can look forward to a historic encounter, showcasing the depth and talent of Mexican football.