Monterrey advance to Liga MX Final with win over Necaxa

Antonio “Turco” Mohamed’s unbeaten run in his return with los Rayados will continue all the way to the Liga MX Final as Monterrey defeated Necaxa 1-0 on Saturday to advance 3-2 on aggregate over los Rayos.

As expected, Necaxa were the slicker side for much of the first 45 minutes, but apart from a pair of long distance tries, los Rayos were ineffective in challenging Rayados goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero.

Monterrey came close to grabbing the breakthrough immediately after the break when Dorlan Pabon forced a good save off Hugo Gonzalez.

Still needing to score at least a goal, Necaxa increased the pressure, but just like in the first half, los Rayos were only able to trouble from long range.

In the 90th minute, Necaxa had arguably their best chance to win the game when Rodrigo Noya struck the woodwork from a header following a corner.

In injury time, Monterrey put an end to Necaxa’s chances when Rodolfo Pizarro connected with Rogelio Funes Mori, who had replaced the injured Vincent Jansenn earlier in the game, to send Monterrey through to the Liga MX Final with a resounding 3-1 win on aggregate.

Rayados will now have to wait and see who wins between Monarcas Morelia/Club América in the other Semifinal, although they will first have to travel to Qatar to participate in the Club World Cup before participating in the Liga MX Final.