In what turned out to be a pulsating night of football, Necaxa secured a hard-fought 3-2 win against Guadalajara (commonly known as Chivas) in the second round of the Liga MX Clausura tournament on January 17, 2025. The clash at Estadio Victoria delivered high-energy football, stunning goals, and plenty of drama, leaving fans buzzing.
The Match in Detail
The home side, Necaxa, wasted no time in making their intentions clear. José Antonio Paradela, the Argentine playmaker, broke the deadlock early with a clinical finish that sent the local fans into a frenzy. Tomás Badaloni followed suit, doubling the lead with a well-timed strike that showcased his composure and technical ability.
Chivas, however, weren’t going down without a fight. Defender Gilberto Sepúlveda pulled one back with a powerful header off a corner, reigniting hope for the visitors. Roberto Alvarado then added another, leveling the match in the second half and silencing the home crowd momentarily.
Just when it seemed Chivas might turn the tide, Ricardo Monreal stepped up for Necaxa. In the dying moments of the game, Monreal delivered a goal that was as stunning as it was crucial, sealing the victory for the home side. The roar of the crowd echoed through the stadium as Necaxa claimed all three points.
A Historic Win for Necaxa
This match was more than just a regular-season game; it marked a significant achievement for Necaxa. Historically, Guadalajara has been a dominant force in their head-to-head encounters, winning 22 of their last 38 meetings since 2004. Necaxa’s triumph not only broke that pattern but also sent a message to the rest of the league that they are a team to watch this season.
Tactical Insights
Necaxa’s success stemmed from their high-press strategy and ability to capitalize on set pieces. Paradela and Badaloni were pivotal in breaking down Chivas’ defensive lines, while their midfield worked tirelessly to regain possession. On the flip side, Guadalajara struggled to maintain control in the midfield, leaving gaps that Necaxa exploited effectively.
Chivas’ resilience in the second half was commendable, but their inability to finish key chances proved costly. With a tough schedule ahead, they’ll need to address these issues if they hope to remain competitive in the Clausura tournament.
Other Liga MX Highlights
The weekend also saw other notable matches, with Tigres UANL cementing their place at the top of the table after a 2-1 victory over Mazatlán. Meanwhile, Atlético de San Luis pulled off a 2-1 win against Puebla, adding more excitement to the early stages of the league.
What Lies Ahead
For Necaxa, this win provides a much-needed boost as they look to climb the league standings. With confidence running high, their fans will hope for more spirited performances in the coming weeks. Guadalajara, on the other hand, faces a critical juncture. They’ll need to regroup quickly and focus on turning their fortunes around before the pressure mounts further.
Fans React
Social media was abuzz following the match, with fans praising the entertaining showdown. Necaxa supporters celebrated the team’s grit and determination, while Chivas fans expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the team’s fightback but lamenting the missed opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Matches like these remind us why Liga MX is one of the most exciting leagues in the world. With high stakes, unpredictable outcomes, and passionate fans, every game feels like a spectacle. If this match is any indication, the Clausura tournament is set to deliver an unforgettable season.
