Monterrey delivered a commanding performance against Xolos at the Gigante de Acero, rising to third in the league standings after a convincing 3-1 victory.
On Day 4 of the Opening 2023 season in Liga MX, the two teams clashed on the BBVA Stadium turf, with Monterrey dictating terms from the opening whistle and pressing relentlessly to claim the win.
The home side established the tempo early and never let up, sealing the result through goals from Rogelio Funes Mori, Jesús Gallardo, and Daniel López. Carlos González pulled one back for Tijuana, briefly lighting a spark for the visitors, but Monterrey held firm to secure the three points.
With this triumph, the Striped climb to third place in the overall table, signaling their intent to challenge for a top-four finish as the campaign progresses.
The coverage below offers a minute-by-minute recount of the match and highlights the best moments on the field.
MONTERREY VS XOLOS: MINUTE BY MINUTE
From the opening minute, Monterrey pressed high and pressed often, forcing turnovers and creating chances through quick combinations on the edge of the box. Their first breakthrough came midway through the first period when Funes Mori threaded a finish beyond the Xolos keeper after a devolved buildup in the penalty area. The crowd roared as the ball found the net, setting a tone for the rest of the evening.
Gallardo added a second in the later stages of the half, converting a well-placed cross with a composed finish that left the defense flat-footed. The assist came from a patient buildup on the left flank, showcasing Monterrey’s willingness to switch the point of attack and exploit gaps in the visitors’ shape.
In the second half, the rhythm continued. López capped a flowing team move with a clinical strike that buried any late resistance from Xolos, extending the lead and giving Monterrey breathing room. Although González managed to find a way past the goalkeeper for a consolation goal, the home side reasserted control and closed out the match with solid defensive discipline and careful ball retention.
Fans witnessed a display of calculated pressing, intelligent movement off the ball, and precise finishing. The forward line linked up effectively, while the midfield trio dictated tempo and supplied the supply line to the attackers. Monterrey’s defense, marshaled by the backline, absorbed pressure and sprang forward on swift counters whenever opportunities presented themselves.
HOW TO WATCH ON TV AND APPS?
The match was available to viewers through ViX Premium, accessible via its streaming app, allowing fans to catch all the action on compatible devices. The broadcast highlighted the strategic nuances of Monterrey’s approach and provided in-depth analysis during breaks in play.
ALIGNMENTS
MONTERRAY
Andrada; Vegas, Guzmán, Moreno, Gallardo; Romo, Jonathan González, Alfonso González; Meza, Corona and Funes Mori.
XOLOS
Rodríguez; Barbosa, Balanta, Díaz, Godínez; Madrigal, Blanco, Martínez, Contreras; González and Cavallini.
RESUME
In a match marked by Monterrey’s early dominance and sustained control, the home side took charge and converted pressure into three decisive goals. The late response from Xolos offered a glimmer of hope, but Monterrey’s resilience ensured the result did not waver. The victory cemented their position in the league table and provided a strong platform as the season moves forward.
⚽ Monterrey strikes—an early burst set the tone for the night.
Gallardo adds a second and extends the lead, showcasing his instinct for goal from midfield. 2-0.
LIVE updates showed Monterrey maintaining the edge as the clock ticked toward full time.
In ViX, fans were treated to a showcase of the best of Mexican club football, with Monterrey delivering a performance that underscored their title ambitions. Download the app to follow the action and catch the highlights featuring the strongest performers of the night.
— TUDN MEX reporting on the match.
Source: Goal