Monterrey vs. América: Memorable Encounters and Intriguing Connections

The matchup between Monterrey and América in the 16th round of the 2025 Clausura promises not only exciting plays but also intriguing reunions. Among the highlights, Sergio Ramos will once again cross paths with Néstor Araujo and Jonathan Dos Santos. Additionally, there’s an interesting backstory of Martín Demichelis’s past clash against the Águilas in the Copa Libertadores and the connection both Sergio Ramos and Álvaro Fidalgo share with Santiago Solari.

Sergio Ramos and Jonathan Dos Santos Face-off

Despite Jonathan Dos Santos hailing from FC Barcelona’s academy, he found himself up against Real Madrid and Sergio Ramos while playing for Villarreal. Between 2014 and 2017, the two faced off in five matches, with Madrid claiming victory in three, drawing one, and Villarreal taking a single win.

Sergio Ramos vs. Néstor Araujo

Between the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons, Néstor Araujo, wearing the Celta de Vigo jersey, faced Sergio Ramos’s Real Madrid three times. The Spanish giants emerged victorious twice, but the third encounter saw Araujo’s side earning a point at Santiago Bernabéu.

Demichelis and His Encounter with América in Libertadores

Martín Demichelis, during his playing days, once faced off against his current rival, América. Competing for River Plate, “Micho” played against the Águilas in the 2002 Copa Libertadores group stage, culminating in a goalless draw at Estadio Azteca.

Santiago Solari: The Link Between Ramos and Fidalgo

Sergio Ramos and Álvaro Fidalgo not only share a history with Real Madrid but are also connected through their time under Santiago Solari’s management. Solari, who helped shape Fidalgo at Real Madrid Castilla, gave him his first-team debut and eventually brought him to América, where he coached from 2021 to 2022. Solari’s connection with Ramos unfolded during the 2018/2019 season when he briefly helmed Madrid, utilizing Ramos in 26 out of 32 games and winning the 2019 Club World Cup.