César Garza's early strike decided a tight contest, handing Club de Fútbol Monterrey three key points in their playoff push. The midfielder connected with a Jesús Corona cross in the 7th minute to secure a 1-0 win over Cruz Azul at the Estadio BBVA on Sunday, in Matchday 9 of the Apertura 2026.
The result keeps Matías Almeyda's side in 8th place in the overall standings with 13 points, six behind leaders Toluca. This win ends a two-match winless run and improves their record to five wins, one draw, and three losses from the first nine rounds.
A forceful start
Monterrey came out with clear intent to press high and got their reward quickly. Corona stole the ball on the right flank and his cross to the back post found Garza, who beat goalkeeper Kevin Mier first-time. The quick start surprised a Cruz Azul side that, under Joel Huiqui, deployed a five-man defensive line. Despite dominating possession (53%), the visiting team generated little real threat against a well-organized Rayados defense marshaled by Víctor Guzmán.
The match turned scrappy in the second half, with three yellow cards shown in the space of two minutes. Garza and Cruz Azul forward Gabriel Fernández were booked for dissent in the 58th, and Gonzalo Piovi was cautioned for a foul in the 60th. Almeyda turned to his bench to refresh the wings, bringing on Stefan Medina for Daniel Aceves and later introducing Fidel Ambriz and Jorge Rodríguez for Corona and Lucas Orellano.
Statistics of a close contest
The numbers reflect an even duel where efficiency made the difference. Monterrey took 17 shots with five on target, while Cruz Azul attempted 12 with four on frame. Both goalkeepers, Esteban Andrada and Kevin Mier, made four saves each. The home side committed 13 fouls to their opponent's 14 and won six corners to four.
With this victory, Monterrey prepares for their next fixture in the Copa MX against Atlante FC this Saturday. The team will look to maintain positive momentum before league play resumes, with Lucas Ocampos remaining their main attacking threat with five goals in seven appearances. The full squad and upcoming lineups are available in our squad section.
