América claimed a vital 1-0 win over Monterrey on Saturday in Matchday 5 of the Clausura 2026, keeping their playoff hopes alive. The goal came from Alejandro Zendejas, who put on a masterclass on América's right flank and delivered the decisive moment at the 65-minute mark.
The Mexican winger took the ball, beat a couple of defenders, and fired a low, angled left-footed shot past goalkeeper Luis Cárdenas—all on his 28th birthday. It was exactly the kind of moment this América team needed after a sluggish start to the tournament. Sadly, Zendejas left the match with an injury late in the game, a concerning development for the club.
With this 1-0 victory, América climbs to eighth place, moving into playoff contention. The win comes right on schedule—the team desperately needed to string together consecutive victories after a shaky opening. This result gives América confidence heading into El Clásico Nacional against Chivas, the league leaders, on February 14 at Estadio Akron. The Eagles also got a boost from the introduction of new signing Raphael Veiga in the second half, their marquee reinforcement to boost their goalscoring prowess. While Monterrey failed to win at the Estadio Azteca for the sixth consecutive league visit since August 2020, América's resilient defensive display kept the pressure manageable, securing a result that matters in this tight race.