Martial ends nearly year-long goal drought and scores his first for Monterrey

After almost a full year without scoring in official competition, Anthony Martial finally found the net again. The French forward opened his account with Monterrey in a dominant 5–1 win over Mazatlán FC on Matchday 3 of the Clausura 2026, putting an end to a goal drought that dated back to February 2025.

Beyond the team result, the goal marked a major personal milestone for Martial. He had not scored in an official match since February 9, 2025, when he was still playing for AEK Athens. The breakthrough came from the penalty spot. Martial initially saw his spot kick saved by the goalkeeper, but he reacted quickly, followed up on the rebound, and slammed the ball into the net, sparking celebrations at the Estadio BBVA, known as the Gigante de Acero.

That finish snapped an eleven-month scoring drought. His last official goals had been a brace with AEK Athens, after which he went scoreless for the remainder of his time in Greece, a stretch that ultimately led to his exit and his move to Liga MX. During his first months in Mexico, Martial showed flashes of quality but struggled with consistency and failed to translate his talent into goals.

The start of 2026, however, tells a different story. Throughout preseason, the Frenchman showed improved form and growing confidence on the pitch, signs that his adaptation process is beginning to pay off. His long-awaited goal also arrives at a crucial moment for Rayados, as Germán Berterame is increasingly likely to leave the club following a significant offer from Inter Miami—an option the Mexican naturalized striker is reportedly willing to accept.

With Berterame’s potential departure, Monterrey will need new attacking leaders. Martial has taken the first step by breaking his drought and scoring his first official goal, positioning himself as a serious candidate to become a key figure in Rayados’ offensive line for the Clausura 2026.