Mon Dec 16 00:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Club América Edges Monterrey in Thrilling Liga MX Final First Leg
**Puebla, Mexico** – Club América took a crucial 2-1 victory over Monterrey in the first leg of the Liga MX final, played at Puebla’s Estadio Cuauhtemoc due to stadium renovations. Alejandro Zendejas, a U.S. men’s national team winger, scored the game-winning goal in the 49th minute.
Monterrey took an early lead with a long-range strike from Sergio Canales in the 35th minute. However, Club América quickly responded, equalizing just four minutes later through Kevin Álvarez following a scramble in the box. The first half also saw an early injury to Monterrey’s Lucas Ocampos.
The second half saw more drama. Álvaro Fidalgo’s precise pass set up Zendejas for the decisive goal, putting Club América ahead. Monterrey’s struggles were compounded by a second injury, this time to key midfielder Canales, in the second half. Club América controlled possession in the latter stages of the match, securing the narrow victory.
The result leaves Club América with a slender advantage heading into the second leg in Monterrey on Sunday. A win would secure a historic third consecutive championship for Club América, extending their all-time title count to 16. Monterrey, meanwhile, will aim for a comeback to claim their sixth title under manager Martin Demichelis.
First Piper 