Pop Star’s Concert Forces Monterrey Out of Home Ground as Ramos’ Continental Dreams Fade
Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos’ quest for continental glory in North America has hit an unexpected roadblock, and pop icon Shakira may have played a decisive role in his downfall. The 38-year-old defender, who joined Mexican side Monterrey earlier this year, saw his hopes of lifting the Concacaf Champions League dashed in a dramatic last-16 clash against Vancouver Whitecaps—a tie that was heavily influenced by off-field circumstances.
Monterrey, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Canada, were forced to play their home leg at a neutral venue due to Shakira’s concert at their Estadio BBVA on March 12. The disruption seemed to unsettle the Liga MX giants, who dominated the match but could only manage a 2-2 draw, exiting the competition on the away goals rule.
Ramos, who has made a strong start to life in Mexico with three goals in four games, did his part by scoring a 97th-minute penalty. However, his late strike proved to be little more than a consolation, as Monterrey’s continental dreams slipped away.
For Shakira, the Colombian pop star and former wife of Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué, there’s likely no guilt over her indirect role in Ramos’ disappointment. During her time as a regular at Camp Nou, Shakira witnessed some of the most intense Clásico clashes between Barcelona and Real Madrid, with Ramos often playing the role of antagonist for Los Blancos. Piqué, too, was known for his playful jabs at Real Madrid, adding another layer of rivalry to the mix.
Now, Ramos finds himself in what could be the final chapter of his illustrious career. Signed with Monterrey until December 31, the veteran defender is under pressure to deliver for a fanbase growing increasingly frustrated with their team’s underperformance. Despite boasting an expensively assembled squad, Monterrey have struggled to meet expectations, and this early exit from the Concacaf Champions League could mark Ramos’ first and last taste of the competition.
As Ramos looks to regroup and focus on domestic success with Monterrey, the bizarre twist of fate involving Shakira’s concert will undoubtedly go down as one of the more unusual stories in his storied career. For now, the Real Madrid icon must channel his trademark resilience as he aims to end his time in Mexico on a high note.
Similar Posts:
- Sergio Ramos Set for Possible Move to Boca Juniors
- Guardiola Surpasses Ferguson’s Champions League Wins, Sets Sights on Ancelotti’s Record
- Sergio Ramos Open to Real Madrid Return Amid Defensive Injury Crisis
- Karim Benzema Urges Mbappe to Embrace No. 9 Role at Real Madrid
- Lewandowski Hits Champions League Milestone in Barcelona’s 3-0 Win Over Brest
