25 Facts About Necaxa Vs. Santos

The Rivalry Begins

Necaxa and Santos Laguna have a storied rivalry in Mexican football. This matchup has produced some unforgettable moments. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these two teams.

1. Necaxa's Origins: Founded in 1923, Necaxa is one of Mexico's oldest football clubs. They have a rich history and a loyal fan base.

2. Santos Laguna's Birth: Santos Laguna was established much later, in 1983. Despite their relatively recent inception, they have quickly become a powerhouse in Mexican football.

3. First Encounter: The first official match between Necaxa and Santos Laguna took place in 1988. Santos won 3-1, marking the beginning of a fierce rivalry.

4. Championship Titles: Necaxa has won the Mexican league title three times, while Santos Laguna boasts six championships. This success has fueled their competitive spirit.

5. Home Grounds: Necaxa plays at Estadio Victoria in Aguascalientes, while Santos Laguna's home is the Estadio TSM Corona in Torreón. Both stadiums are known for their passionate fans.

Memorable Matches

Some games between Necaxa and Santos Laguna have become legendary. Here are a few that stand out.

6. 1996 Playoff Thriller: In the 1996 playoffs, Necaxa and Santos faced off in a dramatic two-legged tie. Necaxa emerged victorious, advancing to the next round.

7. 2004 Clausura Final: Santos Laguna defeated Necaxa in the 2004 Clausura final, securing their second league title. This match is still talked about by fans.

8. High-Scoring Draw: In 2011, the teams played to a thrilling 4-4 draw. Both sides showcased their attacking prowess, making it a match to remember.

9. Last-Minute Heroics: In a 2018 match, Santos Laguna scored a last-minute goal to secure a 2-1 victory over Necaxa. The dramatic finish left fans on the edge of their seats.

Star Players

Both teams have had their share of star players who have left a lasting impact.

10. Alex Aguinaga: A Necaxa legend, Aguinaga is considered one of the best Ecuadorian players of all time. His creativity and vision were unmatched.

11. Jared Borgetti: Santos Laguna's all-time leading scorer, Borgetti was known for his aerial ability and clinical finishing. He remains a fan favorite.

12. Luis Hernández: Another Necaxa great, Hernández was a prolific striker who also shone for the Mexican national team.

13. Rodrigo Ruiz: Known as "Pony," Ruiz was a key player for Santos Laguna. His dribbling skills and speed made him a constant threat.

Fan Culture

The fans of Necaxa and Santos Laguna are some of the most passionate in Mexico. Their support adds to the intensity of the rivalry.

14. Necaxa's Loyal Supporters: Known as "Rayos," Necaxa's fans are fiercely loyal. They create an electric atmosphere at Estadio Victoria.

15. Santos Laguna's Guerreros: Santos fans, called "Guerreros," are known for their unwavering support. Estadio TSM Corona is always buzzing with energy.

16. Chants and Songs: Both sets of fans have unique chants and songs that they sing during matches. These anthems add to the spectacle of the game.

17. Tifo Displays: Large, colorful tifo displays are a common sight at Necaxa and Santos matches. These displays showcase the creativity and passion of the fans.

Off the Pitch

The rivalry extends beyond the football field. Here are some interesting off-pitch facts.

18. Community Involvement: Both clubs are heavily involved in their local communities. They run various programs aimed at helping underprivileged youth.

19. Charity Matches: Necaxa and Santos have participated in charity matches to raise funds for various causes. These events highlight the positive impact of football.

20. Social Media Presence: Both teams have a strong social media presence. They engage with fans through platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

21. Merchandise Sales: The rivalry has boosted merchandise sales for both clubs. Fans proudly wear their team's colors, whether it's Necaxa's red and white or Santos' green and white.

Recent Developments

The rivalry continues to evolve with each passing season. Here are some recent developments.

22. New Signings: Both teams have made significant signings in recent years. These new players add fresh excitement to the rivalry.

23. Youth Academies: Necaxa and Santos Laguna have invested heavily in their youth academies. This focus on developing young talent bodes well for the future.

24. International Exposure: The rivalry has gained international attention, with matches being broadcast in various countries. This exposure has helped grow the fan base.

25. Future Prospects: Both clubs are looking to the future with ambitious plans. Whether it's stadium upgrades or new training facilities, the rivalry shows no signs of slowing down.

The Final Whistle

Necaxa vs. Santos has always been a thrilling matchup. From historic victories to unforgettable moments, these teams never fail to entertain. Necaxa's resilience and Santos' attacking prowess create a dynamic clash on the field. Fans eagerly anticipate each encounter, knowing they'll witness top-tier soccer.

Both teams have rich histories, with Necaxa's roots dating back to 1923 and Santos' impressive rise since 1983. Their passionate fan bases add to the electric atmosphere, making every game a must-watch event.

Whether you're a die-hard supporter or a casual viewer, this rivalry offers something for everyone. The excitement, drama, and skill on display keep us coming back for more. So next time Necaxa faces Santos, grab your jersey, cheer loudly, and enjoy the beautiful game. This rivalry is a testament to the spirit and passion of soccer.