In a match that showcased both attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities, Monterrey secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Mazatlán FC at the Estadio BBVA, propelling them into the upper echelons of the Liga MX standings. The rollercoaster clash, a part of the Apertura 2025 campaign, saw a quick-fire exchange of goals and a standout performance from Monterrey's Lucas Ocampos.

The visitors, Mazatlán, stunned the home crowd just 13 minutes in when José Esquivel capitalized on a defensive error to put the Cañoneros ahead. However, the lead was short-lived. Monterrey responded with a flurry of attacks, and in the 15th minute, Jesús Corona's cross found Víctor Guzmán, who headed home the equalizer.

Monterrey's relentless pressure continued to pay off. Lucas Ocampos, a constant threat on the left wing, put the hosts in front in the 26th minute, leaving the Mazatlán defense in disarray. The Argentine attacker was not done, and just before halftime, he added a second goal, giving Monterrey a commanding 3-1 lead heading into the break.

The second half began with a renewed sense of urgency from Mazatlán, who refused to give up. Their persistence was rewarded in the 82nd minute when Omar Moreno scored, cutting the deficit to a single goal and setting up a nervy finish. The visitors pushed for a late equalizer, but Monterrey's defense, anchored by the experienced Sergio Ramos, held firm, thwarting every attempt.

With this victory, Monterrey now sits in second place in the league table with 12 points, tied with leaders Pachuca but with a slightly inferior goal difference. Mazatlán, despite a spirited performance, remains in the middle of the pack, having shown flashes of brilliance but ultimately lacking the consistency to get a result against a top-tier side.

The match served as a reminder of Monterrey's potent attack, led by the likes of Ocampos and the always-dangerous Germán Berterame. For Mazatlán, the game highlighted their reliance on a counter-attacking style and the need to tighten up their defense against the league's heavyweights. As the Apertura season progresses, both teams will look to build on their respective performances, with Monterrey aiming for a championship push and Mazatlán striving for a spot in the playoffs.