Tigres and Rayadas will compete this weekend in the sixth ‘kingdom’ of Mexican women’s soccer. The teams will compete for the title of the Apertura 2024 tournament, and promise two challenging matches, one of the first goals on Friday night, and one of the return goals next Monday.
It is considered a historic final because it is the first time women lead both teams in the final: on the Rayadas side, the Costa Rican Amelia Valverde, and with Tigres, the Spanish Milagros Martínez. In addition, both clubs have selected international signings, with Spanish champion Jenni Hermoso in the Tigres squad, and South African World Cup winner Jermaine Seoposenwe in Rayadas.
How the teams reach the final
Rayadas de Monterrey seeks the championship twice after a strong performance against Pachuca on November 18, when they won 4-1 in the second half. On the other hand, Tigres secured their place after a 2-2 draw with Águilas del América last Sunday. With a total score of 3-3, and thanks to its favorable position in the table during the regular stage, the feline They secured their place in the final.
The duel for the title of Apertura 2024 is in dispute between the two most winning teams in the Liga MX Femenil, and both teams have a strong fan base that went with them in every game. The 2018 Clausura tournament - the first final that saw Tigres and Rayadas face off – saw the first attendance record with a total of 51,211 people attending the match.
The last time the two teams met in the Liga MX Femenil final was in the Apertura 2021 tournament, when Rayadas won the title after a score of 0-3 on penalties.
Schedule and when to see the final of Tigres and Rayadas….
The first leg between Tigres and Rayadas will take place this Friday, November 22 at 8:06 pm, central Mexico time, and will be played at the Universitario Stadium. The first final will be broadcast on the Fox Sports pay platform.
The second game will be played next Monday, November 25 at 8.00pm at the Gigante de Acero, the stadium of the Rayadas, who have the upper hand in the regular phase, so they will have the advantage of playing the second game at home. .
Tickets for the second leg are available at Boletomovil.comfrom Sunday the 24th from 11:00 am to Monday the 25th at 4:00 pm Or, they can be purchased at the Rayadas stadium ticket offices on Monday, November 25, from 11:00 to 8:45 pm, during half time of the game. the second leg can be seen on channel 9 of open TV in Mexico, and on TUDN via pay channel.
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How has the popularity of women’s soccer changed in recent years, particularly in Mexico?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Women’s Soccer Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have a special guest, renowned women’s soccer analyst Dr. Sofia Paredes, to discuss the highly anticipated Apertura 2024 final between Tigres and Rayadas. Sofia, it’s great to have you here!
Dr. Paredes: Thank you! I’m excited to talk about this historic match. It’s truly a momentous occasion for Mexican women’s soccer.
Editor: Absolutely! This final is unlike any other, with both teams led by female head coaches for the first time. What does this mean for the league and women’s sports in general?
Dr. Paredes: It represents a significant milestone. Having Amelia Valverde and Milagros Martínez at the helm showcases the growing trust in female leadership within sports. It sends a powerful message to aspiring athletes and coaches that opportunities for women in sports are expanding.
Editor: That’s very inspiring! Now, let’s talk strategy. How did both teams perform to reach this final?
Dr. Paredes: Rayadas de Monterrey had a commanding semifinal against Pachuca, winning 4-1. Their second-half performance was particularly impressive. Tigres, on the other hand, had a nail-biting semifinal against America, ending in a 2-2 draw, but their earlier position in the league allowed them to advance. This speaks to their consistency throughout the season.
Editor: Yes, their performances highlight their strengths. Tigres has also made headlines with their star player, Jenni Hermoso. How significant is her impact on the team?
Dr. Paredes: Jenni Hermoso is a game-changer. Her experience and leadership on the pitch elevate the team’s overall performance. She not only brings skill but also a winning mentality that can inspire her teammates in critical moments, such as the finals.
Editor: And we can’t overlook Rayadas’ signing of Jermaine Seoposenwe. What does her inclusion add to the Rayadas squad?
Dr. Paredes: Seoposenwe adds a dynamic presence to Rayadas’ attack. As a World Cup winner, she brings invaluable experience and a high level of competitiveness. Her international play will be key in crucial moments of the match against Tigres.
Editor: With both teams having such strong lineups, how do you expect the games to unfold this weekend?
Dr. Paredes: I anticipate both matches to be fiercely contested. Tigres excel in possession and technical play, while Rayadas are known for their robust defensive structure and counter-attacks. The tactical battle will be fascinating. I wouldn’t be surprised if the outcome comes down to set pieces or even penalties.
Editor: It sounds like fans are in for a treat! Lastly, as an expert, do you see this kind of matchup growing in popularity in the future?
Dr. Paredes: Absolutely! The intensity, skill, and emotional narratives are attracting larger audiences. More players like Hermoso and Seoposenwe are making their mark, and as media coverage grows, I expect that we’ve only scratched the surface of what women’s soccer can achieve in popularity and viewership.
Editor: Thank you so much for your insights, Sofia. We’re excited to watch this historic final and see how it unfolds.
Dr. Paredes: Thank you for having me! I’m just as excited. Let’s hope for two fantastic matches showcasing the best of women’s soccer!
Editor: For all you viewers out there, be sure to tune in this weekend. Until next time, keep supporting women’s sports!