Matías Almeyda and Rayados Aim to End Five-Year Trophy Drought

Rayados have already secured one objective in the Leagues Cup, qualifying for the next Concacaf Champions Cup. Monterrey now wants the bigger prize: its first Leagues Cup title.

The club’s last trophy came in 2021, when it defeated América in the Concacaf Champions Cup. Five years without another title has brought criticism, especially given the substantial investment in the team. Monterrey will face América in the Leagues Cup semifinal in Los Angeles.

Coach Matías Almeyda said the team had been given several objectives when he arrived. Returning to the Concachampions was the first, and Rayados have now achieved it. But Almeyda said the team wants to go further and reach the top of the tournament.

“

With the possibility of achieving something and becoming part of the club’s history, it is ideal. It is what we have worked for and desired since the first day of preseason.

“With the possibility of achieving something and becoming part of the club’s history, it is ideal. It is what we have worked for and desired since the first day of preseason,” Almeyda said. He has coached fewer than 15 matches and is now two games away from ending Monterrey’s trophy drought.

Lucas Ocampos also said the squad, coaching staff, directors and supporters all want to win. The Argentine forward is seeking a response after two years at the club and a lost Liga MX final. “A player plays to win titles, to make history at the club, to be able to win,” Ocampos said. Reaching the final, he added, is the team’s main objective.

“

A player plays to win titles, to make history at the club, to be able to win.