After the Clásico Regio: Major Changes for Rayadas and Tigres

Rayadas part ways with Amelia Valverde while Tigres strengthen with French star Ève Périsset
Tigres UANL v Monterrey - Playoffs Torneo Apertura 2024 Liga MX Femenil
Tigres UANL v Monterrey - Playoffs Torneo Apertura 2024 Liga MX Femenil | Azael Rodriguez/GettyImages

A turning point in Monterrey women’s football

The Clásico Regio Femenil once again proved why it is the most intense and high-profile rivalry in Liga MX Femenil. In Matchday 10 of the Apertura 2025, Tigres Femenil imposed their dominance with a historic 4-0 victory over Rayadas, a result that not only shook up the standings but also triggered immediate structural changes on both sides of Monterrey.

On one hand, the heavy defeat led Monterrey’s board to announce the departure of Amelia Valverde as head coach. On the other hand, Tigres capitalized on their momentum by confirming a blockbuster signing: French international Ève Périsset, arriving from Chelsea to strengthen their already powerful squad.

Amelia Valverde: From champion to departure

Costa Rican coach Amelia Valverde, who guided Rayadas to a historic back-to-back championship in 2024, could not sustain the same competitive level in Apertura 2025. Heavy defeats against Pumas, Cruz Azul, and especially the Clásico humiliation against Tigres, accelerated a decision that had been looming: her dismissal.

The club made her exit official on September 9, 2025, acknowledging her professionalism and leadership in a statement, while also making clear that recent results were below expectations. Valverde herself apologized publicly after the Clásico, accepting responsibility for the team’s poor form.

Her departure closes a successful chapter, leaving Rayadas facing a period of rebuilding as they search for a new sporting direction.

Tigres add star power with Ève Périsset

While Rayadas were dealing with uncertainty, Tigres Femenil celebrated both their derby triumph and the arrival of a world-class reinforcement. French full-back Ève Périsset, with experience at clubs such as Lyon, PSG, Bordeaux, and Chelsea, has joined the Monterrey powerhouse to bolster their defense.

At 30 years old, Périsset boasts a decorated career: multiple league titles in France, a Champions League trophy with Lyon, and domestic honors in England with Chelsea. She has also been a regular with the French national team since 2016, featuring in European Championships and World Cups.

Her signing not only strengthens Tigres’ backline but also highlights Liga MX Femenil as an attractive destination for top European talent. Under head coach Milagros Martínez, Tigres are clearly signaling their ambition to continue dominating Mexico while expanding their international profile.

A Clásico that changed everything

The 4-0 scoreline was more than just another Clásico result; it became a turning point for both clubs. For Rayadas, it marked the end of an era and the beginning of a rebuilding process. For Tigres, it confirmed their dominance and provided the perfect backdrop to unveil a marquee signing.

The contrast could not be greater: frustration and uncertainty on the blue-and-white side, versus renewed excitement and confidence in the yellow-and-blue camp. A single match reshaped two entire projects in Mexican women’s football.

The Apertura 2025 Clásico Regio Femenil will be remembered not only for the emphatic scoreline but also for the immediate consequences it produced. Rayadas part ways with their championship-winning coach, while Tigres strengthen their roster with an international star in Ève Périsset.

In Monterrey, the rivalry goes beyond the pitch; it is also fought in the boardrooms, through signings, and in the dugout. One thing is certain: this 4-0 Clásico will be remembered as the game that changed the course of both institutions.

Do you think Tigres’ new signing and Rayadas’ coaching change will widen the gap between the two clubs right now?

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