Crespo debuts as Atlas coach with loss to Almeyda's Monterrey

Hernán Crespo's debut as Atlas coach ended in a 2-0 defeat against his close friend Matías Almeyda's Monterrey in the Mexican Apertura tournament. The match, held at the Jalisco stadium, saw former River Plate teammates and Argentine internationals Crespo and Almeyda face off as opposing managers for the first time in Mexico.

Before the game, the two shared an affectionate embrace and exchanged jokes, a camaraderie that continued after the final whistle. Almeyda, who has been managing Monterrey since May, expressed his pleasure at seeing Crespo, whom he has known since their teenage years at River Plate. "We are friends. We grew up together. Since we were 15, we left River and went through many places together," Almeyda said, adding that he wished Crespo the best, calling him a "great coach and a healthy person."

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We are friends. We grew up together. Since we were 15, we left River and went through many places together, in different circumstances. Meeting again after so long and as adversaries seemed strange to me, because we always defended the same thing. Yes, we have played against each other, but this time it was different. I wish him the best: they will have a great coach and a healthy person from football. It was a pleasure to see him. He was well-dressed, haha.

Crespo, who is 51, and Almeyda, 52, both had successful playing careers, including winning the Copa Libertadores in 1996 and a silver medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Their paths have now converged in Mexican football, with Almeyda leading Monterrey to third place and Crespo taking charge of Atlas, who are currently seventh.

Monterrey secured their victory with goals from Diego Rossi in the 28th minute and a penalty from Lucas Ocampos in added time. Despite the loss, Crespo anticipates a strong future for Atlas under his guidance, while the reunion with Almeyda highlighted the enduring bond between the two football figures.

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He looks younger than me. We shared so much. We came up through the youth ranks together. He reached the first division before me and was one of my role models. We played together on the national team, at the Olympics. He is an exemplary person, a winner, for which he was chosen by a great team like Monterrey. No result will change our friendship and I have the utmost respect for him and his family.