Cruz Azul, led by Nicolás Larcamón, has surged into first place in the Liga MX Clausura 2026 tournament despite a missed penalty, defeating Monterrey 2-0 on the road in Week Eight action. The victory extends their unbeaten streak to seven matches and puts them one point ahead of defending champions Toluca.
Despite an early setback when José Paradela’s penalty attempt was saved, La Máquina responded emphatically. Rodolfo Rotondi opened the scoring in the 16th minute, followed by a goal from AgustÃn Palavecino in the 61st minute, securing the win for Larcamón’s squad.
A potential goal for Monterrey’s Gabriel Toro Fernández was disallowed after the referee determined the ball had completely crossed the touchline before entering the net. A late penalty claim by Monterrey was also waved off after review by VAR.
Elsewhere in Liga MX action on Sunday, León defeated Necaxa 2-1, climbing to tenth in the standings while Necaxa remained ninth. This result adds another layer of competition to the tightly contested mid-table battle.
