Monterrey FC Takes on Xelajú MC in High-Stakes Champions Cup Opener
CF Monterrey stepped onto the pitch against CSD Xelajú MC in the first leg of their Round One matchup in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup on February 5, 2026, at Estadio Mario Camposeco in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala.[6][8] The Mexican powerhouse, seeking to reclaim continental glory, brought a star-studded roster designed to make a deep run in the tournament.
Monterrey’s Road to Redemption
Five-time Champions Cup winners Monterrey qualified for this year’s competition as runners-up of the Apertura 2024 in Liga MX, marking a return to continental competition after reaching only the Round of 16 in the 2025 edition.[6] The club hasn’t claimed the trophy since 2021, making this campaign a crucial step in its pursuit of another regional title.
Manager Luis Tano Ortiz assembled a formidable squad featuring Spanish midfielders Sergio Canales and Oliver Torres, along with offensive weapons Jesús Manuel “Tecatito” Corona, Lucas Ocampos, and English striker Anthony Martial.[6] The attacking firepower gives Monterrey FC confidence heading into the two-legged tie against the Guatemalan side.
Historic Matchup Renewed
The xelajú mc vs monterrey contest carries historical weight. The two clubs faced off in the Quarterfinals of the 2012/13 edition, with Monterrey prevailing 4-2 on aggregate.[6] That experience could provide the Mexican side an edge as they pursue another victory in their renewal of the rivalry.
Xelajú, competing in the Champions Cup for the first time in this format, faced an uphill battle against a more established opponent with significantly deeper resources and continental pedigree.
