The Monterrey - Pachuca showdown is one of the most anticipated matches in the Liga MX Clausura 2025 Play-In stage. Both Rayados and Tuzos are set to battle for a coveted direct ticket to the Liguilla. With each squad finishing the regular season tied in points but separated by goal difference, the stakes could not be higher.

What’s at Stake in Monterrey - Pachuca?

Monterrey secured seventh place, narrowly edging out Pachuca, who landed eighth. Now, both teams have a golden opportunity to clinch Liguilla qualification. The winner advances directly as the seventh seed, while the loser faces the next challenge for the eighth and final spot. The format adds drama and intensity, making the Monterrey - Pachuca match a true do-or-die encounter.

For more details about the Play-In structure and what this match means, check the Liga MX: Alineaciones del Monterrey vs. Pachuca del Play In - ESPN. This article outlines the playoff format and its implications for each team.

Recent Form and Key Players

Monterrey closed the season with an impressive away win against León. Young talents like Iker Fimbres and Nelson Deossa delivered, giving Rayados momentum heading into the Play-In. In contrast, Pachuca suffered a narrow defeat to Atlético de San Luis and will be without Javier Eduardo ‘La Chofis’ López due to suspension.

The Rayados will enjoy home advantage at the Estadio BBVA—a crucial factor in high-stakes matches. Pachuca, meanwhile, faces not only the challenge of the environment but also a head-to-head record that favors Monterrey. In their last five meetings across competitions, Monterrey have won four times. TV Azteca Deportes provides more insight into recent results and head-to-head stats.

Projected Lineups

Both teams are expected to field their strongest possible lineups given what’s at stake. According to recent reports:

• Monterrey: Esteban Andrada; Gerardo Arteaga, Víctor Guzmán, Stefan Medina, Ricardo Chávez; Jorge Rodríguez, Iker Fimbres, Jesús Corona, Nelson Deossa; Germán Berterame, Roberto de la Rosa.
• Pachuca: Carlos Moreno; Jorge Berlanga, Eduardo Bauermann, Daniel Aceves, Bryan Gonzalez; Elías Montiel, Pedro Pedraza, Alán Bautista; Juan Sigala, Oussama Idrissi, Salomón Rondón.

Injuries and suspensions could still cause last-minute changes. For up-to-date squad news and tactical analysis, refer to the detailed pre-match breakdown on ESPN.

When and Where to Watch

The Monterrey - Pachuca Play-In takes place at Estadio BBVA on April 27, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 pm local time (CDMX). Fans can catch all the action and live commentary through various platforms, including Azteca 7 and ESPN networks. Check full broadcast and streaming options on the official TV Azteca Deportes match preview.

Conclusion: Who Will Advance?

With both clubs evenly matched on points, the Monterrey - Pachuca game promises high drama and footballing excitement. Rayados’ recent form and home advantage make them slight favorites, but Pachuca’s resilience should not be underestimated. One thing is certain: Liga MX fans are in for a thrilling clash as the Play-In unfolds.

Stay tuned for updates and post-match analysis as the Play-In drama continues to shape the road to the Liguilla.