Rayados Secure Quarterfinal Spot in Concachampions with Win Over Cincinnati FC
Monterrey, Mexico – Rayados advanced to the Quarterfinals of the Concachampions after defeating Cincinnati FC 2-1 in the Round of 16 (3-1 on aggregate). The Mexican side will now face Inter Miami and Lionel Messi in the next stage of the competition.
The first half of the match saw Rayados dominating possession with 54 percent, along with 12 shots on goal. Despite only three shots finding the target, Monterrey managed to take the lead going into halftime.
Brandon Vázquez had an early chance in the 4th minute, heading a ball in the area just wide of the goal. The breakthrough came in the 41st minute when Luis Romo set up a goal for himself after a pass from Maxi Meza.
However, the second half started with Cincinnati FC quickly equalizing through Luciano Costa, who skillfully navigated past four Monterrey defenders to score. Goalkeeper Esteban Andrada made crucial saves to keep Rayados in the lead.
Brandon Vázquez restored Monterrey’s advantage in the 67th minute, finishing off a counterattack led by Maxi Meza. This goal was met with chants of ‘Olé’ every time Rayados touched the ball in the opponent’s territory.
Despite late attempts by Cincinnati, including a near miss from Aaron Boupendza hitting the post, Rayados held on to secure their spot in the Quarterfinals. The team will now prepare to face Inter Miami and the challenge of stopping Lionel Messi in the next round of the Concachampions.