The first round of the Concacaf Champions Cup reaches a decisive chapter as Monterrey's Rayados host Xelajú MC at the Gigante de Acero, with the aggregate score evenly tied at 1-1. This match is crucial for Rayados since they benefit from the away goals rule, which places them in a favorable position to advance to the next phase of this international tournament. Nevertheless, the atmosphere is not entirely stable for the local team as they are coming off a shaky start to the 2026 season, managing just a couple of victories that have failed to quell the critiques about their overall performance.

Rayados has shown glimpses of strong play but has also experienced lapses that have led to costly mistakes, making this upcoming match not just a battle for advancement but also a test of the team's morale and credibility in a semester filled with high expectations. The coaching staff will need to strategize effectively to harness their positive play while minimizing errors. Additionally, the absence of Ricardo Chávez due to an ankle issue adds another layer of challenge for the team as they prepare for this crucial fixture against Xelajú.

The outcome of this match holds significant implications not only for Rayados' tournament journey but also for the broader narrative of their season. A successful advance could boost confidence within the team, potentially erasing doubts surrounding their recent form. Conversely, an unfavorable result might further amplify the existing concerns among fans and analysts regarding the team's stability and prospects moving forward in both the Concacaf Champions Cup and the domestic league competition.