Pachuca opened the Liga MX Apertura 2025 with a commanding 3–0 victory over Monterrey at Estadio Hidalgo, handing new manager Jaime Lozano a winning debut. The result contrasted sharply with both clubs’ recent performances at the FIFA Club World Cup, where they exited early but were expected to contend domestically. Venezuelan striker Jhonder Cádiz, one of the Tuzos’ summer reinforcements, proved decisive. He broke the deadlock in the 50th minute with a close-range finish confirmed by VAR, then four minutes later set up 19-year-old Alexéi Domínguez with a rabona pass for the second goal. Substitute Elías Montiel sealed the result in the 78th minute after a back-heel assist from Víctor Guzmán. Monterrey’s only off-season signing, Uruguayan goalkeeper Santiago Mele, kept the score level in the first half with several saves but was left exposed after the interval as Domènec Torrent’s side struggled to contain Pachuca’s pressure. The defeat leaves the Rayados searching for answers ahead of the second round, while Pachuca take early momentum in the new campaign.