Monterrey aims to stay atop the Apertura 2025 standings as they travel to face Puebla at the Cuauhtémoc tonight.
Kickoff is set for 21:05 local time. Rayados arrive on a five-game Liga MX winning streak, having built a 15-point total that puts them at the top of the table, one point ahead of América. Cruz Azul and Pachuca sit close behind on 14 and 13 points, respectively, making every result from this weekend crucial in the early stretch of the season.
A win keeps Monterrey firmly in first place, but a defeat would open the door for América or Toluca to overtake them if those teams win their matches tomorrow, and Cruz Azul could also climb above if Nuevo León falters and the Celestes beat Chivas. A draw would leave the door open for several scenarios as well, with Monterrey needing other outcomes to align if they want to stay atop the standings come Sunday.
Puebla, by contrast, occupy the opposite end of the table with one win, one draw and four losses to date, having scored four and conceded 14. The Camoteros have not tasted victory in four straight games, a stretch that includes a draw with Pumas in Liga MX and a defeat to Seattle in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, along with league losses to San Luis and Tigres in this Apertura 2025 campaign. Their last win came on August 5, a 2-1 victory over Montreal in the Leagues Cup.
For today’s match, Monterrey may line up with Santiago Mele in goal and a back line of Ricardo Chávez, Stefan Medina, Sergio Ramos and Luis Reyes. Midfielders Jorge Rodríguez and Oliver Torres could partner with Lucas Ocampos, Jesús Manuel Corona and Sergio Canales, supporting Germán Berterame in attack.
The matchup represents a test of Monterrey’s depth and consistency against a Puebla side desperate to snap its skid and climb away from the bottom of the table.
What to watch: Can Rayados extend their winning run and cement their hold on first place, or will Puebla pull off a surprise to reignite their season? Expect Monterrey to lean on their decisive attacking options while Puebla will look to tighten up defensively and exploit any counter opportunities.
Summary: Monterrey seeks to maintain their leadership by beating Puebla at the Cuauhtémoc, a result that would reinforce their spot atop the table, while Puebla looks for a spark to turn their form around.
Positive note: If Rayados can extend their streak with a disciplined performance, they’ll reinforce belief that they can finish the first phase of the season strongly and push toward the top of the table in a competitive Liga MX Apertura.
Additional comments: This is a pivotal early-season test for both teams’ momentum. The result could influence confidence and tactical approach in the weeks ahead, especially as the season moves toward the midway point.