Miguel Borja Receives Red Card Against Monterrey in Liga MX Match

América forward Miguel Borja was sent off late in the match against Monterrey after a VAR-reviewed challenge on Saturday at Estadio Banorte, leaving Guillermo Almada's team with 10 players during the final minutes of the Liga MX Apertura 2026 fixture.

According to foxsports.com.mx, the incident occurred in the 86th minute when Borja attempted to reach a low cross from Brian Rodríguez but instead made heavy contact with defender Carlos Salcedo.

Referee Óscar Mejía initially showed Borja a yellow card, but VAR officials instructed him to review the play at the monitor. After checking the footage, Mejía overturned the booking and issued a red card, according to foxsports.com.mx.

The Colombian striker had entered the match shortly before the dismissal and had previously created a clear scoring opportunity that hit the crossbar. Foxsports.com.mx reported that Borja had scored in his first appearances for América before this match.

The sending off marked Borja's first red card with América, according to foxsports.com.mx. The result put additional pressure on the team as it searched for a positive outcome at Monterrey's home venue.

América defender Cristian Borja also faced criticism after a separate defensive mistake during the match. Elfutbolero.com.mx reported that former América player Carlos Reinoso questioned the Colombian's loss of defensive positioning during a TUDN broadcast.

According to elfutbolero.com.mx, Cristian Borja began the match with a yellow card in the third minute after a midfield foul. The report said the early booking affected his ability to challenge opponents throughout the game.

Elfutbolero.com.mx also reported that Cristian Borja had previous costly moments, including a handball against Necaxa that resulted in a penalty opportunity and another handball during the Leagues Cup.

Midfielder Erick Sánchez was another América player highlighted by elfutbolero.com.mx after allowing Monterrey to restart play quickly during a dangerous situation. The midfielder had recently received praise from Almada after a 4-2 win over Necaxa.

The match was part of the Apertura 2026 campaign during América's 110th anniversary celebrations. According to elfutbolero.com.mx, América entered the game with 20 points while Monterrey had 13, and Almada still had defensive alternatives including Miguel Vázquez, Santiago Ramos Mingo, and Santiago Bueno.