Monterrey Backed to Beat Necaxa Again

Necaxa have Julian Carranza back from injury, but Agustin Oliveros is a doubt after coming off injured in the last match against Atlas.

Monterrey also have a concern after Jesus Corona was hurt while battling hard in the previous game against Laguna, and it remains unclear whether he will be fit in time.

Necaxa have no suspensions. Agustin Oliveros is doubtful with a thigh problem, while there are no other injury absences reported.

Monterrey also have no suspensions. Jesus Corona is doubtful with an unspecified injury, and there are no other reported absentees.

The main pick is an away win.

Necaxa opened with a dramatic victory, coming from behind to beat Atlas 2-1 at home thanks to Miguel Pedraza's stoppage-time winner. Carranza's return was a major boost as well, with the forward scoring the equalising penalty and then providing the assist for the decisive goal, giving Necaxa's attack a clear lift.

Monterrey also started with a win, beating Laguna 3-2. They were excellent in the first half, with Ocampos scoring twice before Jesus Corona added another. The concern was that they allowed Laguna back into the match and had to withstand late pressure, but there is no doubt about their attacking quality, and this revamped side has already shown real firepower.

Necaxa showed spirit against Atlas, but this is a much tougher assignment. Monterrey have more attacking options, better individual quality, and a dominant recent head-to-head record. Even away from home, they look capable of taking their chances at key moments. Monterrey are backed to win on the road.

In head-to-head meetings, Monterrey have won each of their last nine matches against Necaxa. In their most recent league meeting in January this year, Monterrey won 2-0 away from home.