Monterrey’s Rayadas Secure Their Third Title in Liga MX

Mexican soccer couldn’t be completely dominated by the Azulcremas (América), as Rayadas secured their third title in the Liga MX Femenil, winning 4-3 in penalties against América after a 2-1 victory in the second leg (2-2 aggregate).

Pamela Tajonar, the experienced Monterrey goalkeeper, went from villain to heroine by saving the final penalty taken by Aylin Aviléz, a former Monterrey player, securing the title for Amelia Valverde’s team. This victory marked Valverde’s first time surpassing Ángel Villacampa in their direct encounters (three times).

Sarah Luebbert opened the scoring with the fifth-fastest goal in Liga MX Femenil history (9’), with assistance from the local goalkeeper. Jermaine Seoposenwe equalized (25’), and in the last minute, Rebeca Bernal tied the aggregate score via a penalty (90+9’).

The Águilas have yet to defeat the Rayadas at the BBVA Stadium (El Gigante de Acero) and have not overcome the Monterrey team in a Liguilla knockout round, suffering their third elimination by them, with the previous two in the semifinals (AP. 2019 and Guard1anes 2020).

This regional title was a relief for Chivas Rayadas of Guadalajara, as an América victory would have put them ahead with three titles.

Instead, Rayadas inch closer to Tigres Amazonas, the top winners with six crowns.
• 5 penalties have been awarded against América in six Liguilla matches.
• Amelia Valverde has led Rayadas in 23 matches.
• 31,000 people attended the final at Estadio BBVA.
• Sarah Luebbert scored her first goal in a final.
• Ángel Villacampa has lost his third final with América.
• Pamela Tajonar saved 2 penalties in the shootout.
• Luebbert is the sixth highest scorer for América (28 goals).
• Rebeca Bernal is the fourth highest scorer for Rayadas (60 goals).
• This is the first final where two foreign players scored.
• Emilio Azcárraga attended the match at Estadio BBVA.
• A minute of silence was held for Andrea Pereira's death.
• Seoposenwe scored 14 goals for Rayadas this season.
• Katty Martínez has played the most final matches in Mexico (23).
PAL