Mexico City, Dec. 2 -- Toluca defender Jesus Gallardo said his team is fully prepared to intensify its pursuit of a second straight Liga MX title as it heads into a high-stakes semifinal showdown with Monterrey.

The clubs will meet in Guadalupe, part of the greater Monterrey area, on Wednesday before the return fixture in Toluca on Saturday.

"We had a great tournament, and we believe we can fight for the championship," Gallardo told a news conference.

"That's the idea we have had since the start of the tournament, and now we are a step closer. We are going to give 100 percent, and hopefully that will be enough to reach the final. We're prepared and focused on trying to win back-to-back titles."The Red Devils reached the Apertura tourname...