Mexican Soccer Podcast 3
Mexican Soccer Podcast 3 by mexworldcup
Welcome to the third edition of the Mexican Soccer Podcast hosted by Guadalajara-based journalist Tom Marshall (@mexicoworldcup on Twitter).
In today´s pod (28/11/11), we talk to SB Nation journalist Kevin McCauley (@kevinmccauley) about the curse of the superleader in Mexico and Chivas falling at the quarterfinal stage of the playoffs against league minnows Queretaro. We also look ahead to the semifinals: Tigres v Queretaro and Santos v Morelia.
In part two, goal.com´s Eric Gomez (@goaleric) gives us the latest news from the Mexican game including the latest shenanigans at the telenovela that is Club América, why Cruz Azul might be about ready for an overhaul and Chivas´ new reinforcements for the upcoming season.
Finally, South American football expert Nic Rosano (@nicholasrosano) gives us his take on Monterrey´s chances in the Club World Cup and Mexican teams´ chances in next year´s Copa Libertadores.
Monday, 28 November 2011
Monday, 21 November 2011
Mexican Soccer Podcast 2
Mexican Soccer Podcast 2
Mexican Soccer Podcast 2 by mexicoworldcup
Welcome to the second edition of the Mexican Soccer Podcast hosted by Guadalajara-based journalist Tom Marshall (@mexicoworldcup on Twitter).
In today´s pod (21/11/11), we talk to SB Nation journalist Kevin McCauley (@kevinmccauley) about an incredible weekend of games in the quarterfinals of the Apertura 2011 playoffs.
In part two, goal.com´s Eric Gomez (@goaleric) gives us some fascinating insights into potential transfers this winter (Humberto Suazo to America, Christian Benitez to Monterrey?!), including some young Mexicans that may well be hopping over the pond to Europe. There´s other news on the agenda too, such as the persistent rumour that Estudiantes Tecos will soon be on the move to Acapulco.
Finally, British journalist Duncan Tucker (@duncantucker) was present at the Pachuca v Tigres game for around 7,000 Tigres fans made the 11 hour journey from Monterrey. Just how good was the atmosphere?
Mexican Soccer Podcast 2 by mexicoworldcup
Welcome to the second edition of the Mexican Soccer Podcast hosted by Guadalajara-based journalist Tom Marshall (@mexicoworldcup on Twitter).
In today´s pod (21/11/11), we talk to SB Nation journalist Kevin McCauley (@kevinmccauley) about an incredible weekend of games in the quarterfinals of the Apertura 2011 playoffs.
In part two, goal.com´s Eric Gomez (@goaleric) gives us some fascinating insights into potential transfers this winter (Humberto Suazo to America, Christian Benitez to Monterrey?!), including some young Mexicans that may well be hopping over the pond to Europe. There´s other news on the agenda too, such as the persistent rumour that Estudiantes Tecos will soon be on the move to Acapulco.
Finally, British journalist Duncan Tucker (@duncantucker) was present at the Pachuca v Tigres game for around 7,000 Tigres fans made the 11 hour journey from Monterrey. Just how good was the atmosphere?
Friday, 18 November 2011
Why Blatter´s Comments Matter Outside of Europe
I remember being at a Cruz Azul v Toronto FC CONCACAF Champions League game in Mexico City about 14 months ago and every time a black player touched the ball, screams of "monkey" or "dog" were audible.
One middle-aged Mexican sitting at the side of me, attending the game with his kids, turned and shook his head.
It was how I imagined English grounds were like in the 1970s.
From Hugo Sanchez being called an "Indio" whilst playing in Spain, to incidents this year where Santos´ Darwin Quintero, a black Colombian striker, was allegedly called an "ape of shit," the Mexican game has its share of racism embedded.
Thankfully, such incidents are few and far between, but if you need proof from this footballing stronghold that Sepp Blatter´s comments on Nov. 16 were out of order in the global context, read carefully the following report about the Quintero incident.
"(The player) called me an ape of shit and (another player) pushed me," said Quintero. "If they call you black that passes you by but when they call you an ape, you´re not used to them calling you that."
Added Quintero: "They (other players) have called me black shit a lot of times, and a lot of other things, but ape?"
Quintero swung an arm and headbutted at one of the opposition players involved and was sent off for the violent act. It is the only red card he has received since arriving in Mexico in January 2009.
The opposition player defended himself by saying Quintero was making it all up to justify his violent actions. His manager backed him up, by saying he was a nice lad who couldn´t possibly do such a thing.
Quintero served a four match suspension, while the opposition player got nothing, highlighting difficulties of such cases.
"It´s logical," summised Quintero. "They can´t confirm if he said that or not, but it is on his conscience. If he hadn´t have said anything, I wouldn´t have spoken out about all this.
It´s for you to make your own conclusions about this particular case, but Blatter saying a player should get on with it, leave what was said on the field and shake hands after, is not the answer to wiping racism out of game. Not in England, and not in Mexico.
Video, in Spanish, explaining the case from both points of view:
One middle-aged Mexican sitting at the side of me, attending the game with his kids, turned and shook his head.
It was how I imagined English grounds were like in the 1970s.
From Hugo Sanchez being called an "Indio" whilst playing in Spain, to incidents this year where Santos´ Darwin Quintero, a black Colombian striker, was allegedly called an "ape of shit," the Mexican game has its share of racism embedded.Thankfully, such incidents are few and far between, but if you need proof from this footballing stronghold that Sepp Blatter´s comments on Nov. 16 were out of order in the global context, read carefully the following report about the Quintero incident.
"(The player) called me an ape of shit and (another player) pushed me," said Quintero. "If they call you black that passes you by but when they call you an ape, you´re not used to them calling you that."
Added Quintero: "They (other players) have called me black shit a lot of times, and a lot of other things, but ape?"
Quintero swung an arm and headbutted at one of the opposition players involved and was sent off for the violent act. It is the only red card he has received since arriving in Mexico in January 2009.
The opposition player defended himself by saying Quintero was making it all up to justify his violent actions. His manager backed him up, by saying he was a nice lad who couldn´t possibly do such a thing.
Quintero served a four match suspension, while the opposition player got nothing, highlighting difficulties of such cases.
"It´s logical," summised Quintero. "They can´t confirm if he said that or not, but it is on his conscience. If he hadn´t have said anything, I wouldn´t have spoken out about all this.
It´s for you to make your own conclusions about this particular case, but Blatter saying a player should get on with it, leave what was said on the field and shake hands after, is not the answer to wiping racism out of game. Not in England, and not in Mexico.
Video, in Spanish, explaining the case from both points of view:
Top 3 Goals From The Apertura 2011
Here are my top three goals in the Apertura 2011 championship regular season. Should get you in the mood for the playoffs this weekend. Enjoy.
3. Oribe Peralta - SANTOS v Pumas
Chilena/Overhead kick from the Mexican international. ´Nuff said.
2. Sinha - TOLUCA v Santos
The evergreen 35-year-old Brazilian-born Mexico international dazzles the Santos defence and makes viewers dizzy with his twists and turns before sticking the ball in the back of the onion bag.
1. Enrique Esqueda - PACHUCA v Monterrey
The subject of ridicule when his former coach at América, Carlos Reinoso, said he was better than Chicharito, Esqueda, now at Pachuca, can at least lay claim to have scored a goal better than Chicharito ever will.
I chose this goal not just for the perfection of Esqueda´s strike, but also for the swift build up play from by Pachuca.
3. Oribe Peralta - SANTOS v Pumas
Chilena/Overhead kick from the Mexican international. ´Nuff said.
2. Sinha - TOLUCA v Santos
The evergreen 35-year-old Brazilian-born Mexico international dazzles the Santos defence and makes viewers dizzy with his twists and turns before sticking the ball in the back of the onion bag.
1. Enrique Esqueda - PACHUCA v Monterrey
The subject of ridicule when his former coach at América, Carlos Reinoso, said he was better than Chicharito, Esqueda, now at Pachuca, can at least lay claim to have scored a goal better than Chicharito ever will.
I chose this goal not just for the perfection of Esqueda´s strike, but also for the swift build up play from by Pachuca.
Monday, 14 November 2011
Mexican Soccer Podcast 1
Welcome to the pilot edition of the Mexican Soccer Podcast hosted by Guadalajara-based journalist Tom Marshall (@mexicoworldcup).
Mexican Soccer Podcast 1
Mexican Soccer Podcast 1 by mexicoworldcup
In today´s pod (14/11/11), we talk to experienced Mexican journalist Karla Villegas (@karlitsv) about the national team´s incredible 2011 and look forward with optimism to Brazil 2014.
In part two, Club América fan Jonathan Rico (@jonyrico) tells about América´s turbulent last couple of weeks and why he predicted the team would have a terrible season.
Finally, avid Mexico-watcher Kevin McCauley (@kevinmccauley) gives his predictions on the quarter-finals of the playoffs and explains why he thinks Tigres are the favourites for the Apertura 2011 title.
Feel free to make comments/suggestions.
Mexican Soccer Podcast 1
Mexican Soccer Podcast 1
Mexican Soccer Podcast 1 by mexicoworldcup
In today´s pod (14/11/11), we talk to experienced Mexican journalist Karla Villegas (@karlitsv) about the national team´s incredible 2011 and look forward with optimism to Brazil 2014.
In part two, Club América fan Jonathan Rico (@jonyrico) tells about América´s turbulent last couple of weeks and why he predicted the team would have a terrible season.
Finally, avid Mexico-watcher Kevin McCauley (@kevinmccauley) gives his predictions on the quarter-finals of the playoffs and explains why he thinks Tigres are the favourites for the Apertura 2011 title.
Feel free to make comments/suggestions.
Mexican Soccer Podcast 1
Monday, 31 October 2011
Interest in Mexicans playing overseas at all-time high
As an Englishman living in Mexico, the concept of a section of sports newspapers and websites dedicated to nationals playing football abroad is alien.
The reason is simple: very few British players play or have ever played abroad, so British publications have never had the need.
If you go along with one of the theories outlined in “Soccernomics: Why England Loses, Why Germany and Brazil win …”, by Kuper and Szymanski, the fact England has had so few players ply their trade outside the British Isles is one of the reasons that the team has only ever reached one World Cup final and consistently disappoints in major tournaments.
It is now generally and widely accepted that playing outside your country opens up a player to new experiences, training styles, tactics and, depending on the league, better quality football.
Read American soccer websites or the Mexican press with that in mind and the general consensus is that players from both countries should follow the Argentine and Brazilian model and ship increasingly more players to the Old Continent.
Increasingly that has happened, with Hugo Sanchez paving the way in Mexico, followed by a period in which Rafa Marquez dominated and then a mini-boom over the last few years since Mexico won the 2005 Under-17 World Cup in Peru.
Off the back of that World Cup win, Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos and Efrain Juarez found themselves in Europe. In other words, three of the stars of the World Cup win and three players thought then to be the future of the national team were on the other side of the pond.
Naturally, the Mexican press latched onto that and newspapers started carrying more and more updates of the players´ progress.
Emphasis on Mexicans playing abroad continued to grow with Carlos Salcido moving to PSV in Holland in 2006, being followed from Chivas to the Dutch team by Maza Rodriguez two years later. Omar Bravo also moved to Deportivo La Coruña in 2008.
The momentum of Mexicans abroad took hold, even though the progress of Dos Santos, Vela and Bravo was hardly turning many heads.
The obvious big turning point came in April 2010 when Manchester United signed Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez.
The baby-faced goalscorer was splashed on front pages all across the country on the day he signed, but no-one expected him to have the impact he had in his first season.
The Chicharito phenomenon was followed by last summer´s second Under-17 World Cup victory for Mexico and a third-place finish at the Under-20 World Cup.
Interest from Europe in Mexican players is at an all-time high, with foreign scouts scouring from Chilpancingo to Coahuila looking for the next big thing.
With seven regulars of the Mexican team currently playing abroad and a host of talent desperate to make the leap over to Europe, all signs point to the fact that the “Mexicans Abroad” sections in the media will have increasing importance over coming years.
Mexico fans hope that Kuper and Szymanski´s theory was right and the quality of the national team also increases exponentially.
The reason is simple: very few British players play or have ever played abroad, so British publications have never had the need.
If you go along with one of the theories outlined in “Soccernomics: Why England Loses, Why Germany and Brazil win …”, by Kuper and Szymanski, the fact England has had so few players ply their trade outside the British Isles is one of the reasons that the team has only ever reached one World Cup final and consistently disappoints in major tournaments.
It is now generally and widely accepted that playing outside your country opens up a player to new experiences, training styles, tactics and, depending on the league, better quality football.
Read American soccer websites or the Mexican press with that in mind and the general consensus is that players from both countries should follow the Argentine and Brazilian model and ship increasingly more players to the Old Continent.
Increasingly that has happened, with Hugo Sanchez paving the way in Mexico, followed by a period in which Rafa Marquez dominated and then a mini-boom over the last few years since Mexico won the 2005 Under-17 World Cup in Peru.
Off the back of that World Cup win, Carlos Vela, Giovani Dos Santos and Efrain Juarez found themselves in Europe. In other words, three of the stars of the World Cup win and three players thought then to be the future of the national team were on the other side of the pond.
Naturally, the Mexican press latched onto that and newspapers started carrying more and more updates of the players´ progress.
Emphasis on Mexicans playing abroad continued to grow with Carlos Salcido moving to PSV in Holland in 2006, being followed from Chivas to the Dutch team by Maza Rodriguez two years later. Omar Bravo also moved to Deportivo La Coruña in 2008.
The momentum of Mexicans abroad took hold, even though the progress of Dos Santos, Vela and Bravo was hardly turning many heads.
The obvious big turning point came in April 2010 when Manchester United signed Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez.
The baby-faced goalscorer was splashed on front pages all across the country on the day he signed, but no-one expected him to have the impact he had in his first season.
The Chicharito phenomenon was followed by last summer´s second Under-17 World Cup victory for Mexico and a third-place finish at the Under-20 World Cup.
Interest from Europe in Mexican players is at an all-time high, with foreign scouts scouring from Chilpancingo to Coahuila looking for the next big thing.
With seven regulars of the Mexican team currently playing abroad and a host of talent desperate to make the leap over to Europe, all signs point to the fact that the “Mexicans Abroad” sections in the media will have increasing importance over coming years.
Mexico fans hope that Kuper and Szymanski´s theory was right and the quality of the national team also increases exponentially.
Friday, 28 October 2011
Mexico Takes Pan Am Football Gold
Jeronimo Aquino slotted home in the 76st minute to give Mexico a 1-0 victory against Argentina to win the gold medal at the Pan American Games, in front of a sold out Estadio Omnilife.
Argentina held off Mexico´s advances for the vast majority of the evening.
The gold medal game was the most-hyped event in Mexico in the whole Pan American Games.
Mexico had the better of the first half, with Miguel Ponce creating chances down the left wing, but Argentina too had opportunities and forced a couple of good saves from Mexico goalkeeper and captain Jesus Corona.
Argentina went close in the third minute of the second half, a flick on from a corner falling into the hands of Corona, just as an Argentine player was poised to pounce.
Chivas´ Miguel Angel Ponce had a golden chance to open the scoring for Mexico with a free header with short distance in the 60th.
Ponce put another back-post header wide in the 72nd after a fast break from an Argentine corner.
Amione was released for his goal by Javier Aquino, who had cut in from the right wing.
Brizuela went through one-one-one with the keeper with one minute remaining, but the keeper saved.
The Under-23 Mexico team played with three over-aged players, while Argentina fielded an Under-20 team largely made up of players that participated at last summer´s U-20 World Cup in Colombia.
Mexico Line-up:
Mexico: Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul), Hiram Mier (Monterrey), Nestor Araujo (Cruz Azul), Darvin Chavez (Monterrey), Eduardo Zavala (Monterrey), Javier Aquino (Cruz Azul), Oribe Peralta (Santos), Jeronimo Amione (Atlante), Ricardo Bocanegra (Atlas), Cesar Ibañez (Santos), Miguel Ponce (Chivas).
Subs: Jorge Enriquez for Bocanegra (77th), Isaac Brizuela for Amione (84th), Hugo Rodriguez for Aquino(44th)
Argentina held off Mexico´s advances for the vast majority of the evening.
The gold medal game was the most-hyped event in Mexico in the whole Pan American Games.
Mexico had the better of the first half, with Miguel Ponce creating chances down the left wing, but Argentina too had opportunities and forced a couple of good saves from Mexico goalkeeper and captain Jesus Corona.
Argentina went close in the third minute of the second half, a flick on from a corner falling into the hands of Corona, just as an Argentine player was poised to pounce.
Chivas´ Miguel Angel Ponce had a golden chance to open the scoring for Mexico with a free header with short distance in the 60th.
Ponce put another back-post header wide in the 72nd after a fast break from an Argentine corner.
Amione was released for his goal by Javier Aquino, who had cut in from the right wing.
Brizuela went through one-one-one with the keeper with one minute remaining, but the keeper saved.
The Under-23 Mexico team played with three over-aged players, while Argentina fielded an Under-20 team largely made up of players that participated at last summer´s U-20 World Cup in Colombia.
Mexico Line-up:
Mexico: Jesus Corona (Cruz Azul), Hiram Mier (Monterrey), Nestor Araujo (Cruz Azul), Darvin Chavez (Monterrey), Eduardo Zavala (Monterrey), Javier Aquino (Cruz Azul), Oribe Peralta (Santos), Jeronimo Amione (Atlante), Ricardo Bocanegra (Atlas), Cesar Ibañez (Santos), Miguel Ponce (Chivas).
Subs: Jorge Enriquez for Bocanegra (77th), Isaac Brizuela for Amione (84th), Hugo Rodriguez for Aquino(44th)
America Must Turn to Youth
Club America not only lost Mexico’s superclasico 3-1 to a superior Guadalajara Chivas on Sunday, but it was outplayed on all fronts and the fallout from the game has highlighted a club in need of a sharp reassessment.
“We have a captain made of water and a defense made of plastic,” America’s Angel Reyna, the top scorer in the Mexican league last season, told the press after the game.
They were hardly words that the broken team needed to hear straight after a loss against its biggest rivals.
Please click here for the rest of this story ...
“We have a captain made of water and a defense made of plastic,” America’s Angel Reyna, the top scorer in the Mexican league last season, told the press after the game.
They were hardly words that the broken team needed to hear straight after a loss against its biggest rivals.
Please click here for the rest of this story ...
Chivas' Marco Fabian Regrets Celebration, Reveals Tragic Past
Chivas forward Marco Fabian travelled to the violence-plagued Ciudad Juarez Thursday to make a plea for forgiveness after his tasteless goal celebration last weekend, and donate one million pesos to an institution that helps orphans.
Chivas fined Fabian and teammate Alberto Medina 50,000 pesos each for performing a mock execution in a pre-planned goal celebration after Fabian scored on Saturday against Estudiantes Tecos.
Fabian, considered one of Chivas' brightest talents, also revealed for the first time details about the murder of his 23-year-old brother, as well as his regret at not having thought about the consequences of such a celebration before carrying it out.
“His friends came by the house for me, they honked the horn, he ran out to get in the car with them and left to never return,” said 22-year-old Fabian on the brink of tears. “That day marked us forever.”
“We never got any explication, or justice,” he continued, not saying when the event happened. “We found him massacred in a ditch; they'd killed him.”
“My respect to Mexico, for a Mexico free of violence, for the Jonathans that have left thier houses and never returned and for the mothers and siblings of the victims,” Fabian concluded.
Chivas owner Jorge Vergara joined Fabian in Juarez to deliver the one-million peso (74,000 US dollar) check to a foundation dedicated to help children that have been made orphans by the violence associated with the drug trade.
Fabian and Medina were initially fined 50,000 pesos each, but voluntarily doubled it. The rest of the money came from Vergara, other Chivas players and members of staff.
Fabian is expected to play in the Estadio Azteca on Sunday for Chivas against archrivals America.
Violence has invaded Mexico's football realm recently, especially following the shootout outside the Estadio Corona in Torreon on August 20th which caused the match between Santos and Morelia to be cancelled after 40 minutes.
A campaign designed to keep football free of the drug trade-related violence was launched after the Torreon incident.
Chivas fined Fabian and teammate Alberto Medina 50,000 pesos each for performing a mock execution in a pre-planned goal celebration after Fabian scored on Saturday against Estudiantes Tecos.
Fabian, considered one of Chivas' brightest talents, also revealed for the first time details about the murder of his 23-year-old brother, as well as his regret at not having thought about the consequences of such a celebration before carrying it out.
“His friends came by the house for me, they honked the horn, he ran out to get in the car with them and left to never return,” said 22-year-old Fabian on the brink of tears. “That day marked us forever.”
“We never got any explication, or justice,” he continued, not saying when the event happened. “We found him massacred in a ditch; they'd killed him.”
“My respect to Mexico, for a Mexico free of violence, for the Jonathans that have left thier houses and never returned and for the mothers and siblings of the victims,” Fabian concluded.
Chivas owner Jorge Vergara joined Fabian in Juarez to deliver the one-million peso (74,000 US dollar) check to a foundation dedicated to help children that have been made orphans by the violence associated with the drug trade.
Fabian and Medina were initially fined 50,000 pesos each, but voluntarily doubled it. The rest of the money came from Vergara, other Chivas players and members of staff.
Fabian is expected to play in the Estadio Azteca on Sunday for Chivas against archrivals America.
Violence has invaded Mexico's football realm recently, especially following the shootout outside the Estadio Corona in Torreon on August 20th which caused the match between Santos and Morelia to be cancelled after 40 minutes.
A campaign designed to keep football free of the drug trade-related violence was launched after the Torreon incident.
Thursday, 29 September 2011
Mexican League Starting to Heat Up
With only seven rounds left to play, an exciting end to the Apertura 2011 season is in store for fans of the Mexican Primera. Currently, just six points separate first from fifteenth in the standings, and a new league format has added a sense of welcome simplicity.
If one theme could sum up the Apertura season so far, it would be unpredictability.
Jaguares finished bottom of the general table last season and lost their first two of the Apertura. Things quickly shifted though, as they are currently sitting in first place after ten games, with a goal difference of +3.
One week Puebla wins 4-1 at Chivas, one of the favorites for the title, and the next week lose at home against Santos.
America fans have suffered from what is generally considered to be a disastrous start to the season by their team. Yet despite their much-documented struggles, America is just four points out of a playoff spot with seven games to play.
Every team, including lowly Atlas, averages over a goal per game. In comparison, there are seven teams that have scored less than a goal per game after six games of the English Premier League.
A welcome addition this season has been the new format for playoff qualification, whereby the top eight go through, simple as that. No more Group A, Group B and Group C, plus working out the best third-placed finishers as in previous years. Your team has to be in the overall top eight or it does not advance to the post-season.
Only Atlas and Tijuana appear to have little to zero chance of making the playoffs, but they have their own relegation battle to fight along with Estudiantes Tecos.
In summary, every single team still has lots to play for, which is great news for the league and even better news for the fans.
If one theme could sum up the Apertura season so far, it would be unpredictability.
Jaguares finished bottom of the general table last season and lost their first two of the Apertura. Things quickly shifted though, as they are currently sitting in first place after ten games, with a goal difference of +3.
One week Puebla wins 4-1 at Chivas, one of the favorites for the title, and the next week lose at home against Santos.
America fans have suffered from what is generally considered to be a disastrous start to the season by their team. Yet despite their much-documented struggles, America is just four points out of a playoff spot with seven games to play.
Every team, including lowly Atlas, averages over a goal per game. In comparison, there are seven teams that have scored less than a goal per game after six games of the English Premier League.
A welcome addition this season has been the new format for playoff qualification, whereby the top eight go through, simple as that. No more Group A, Group B and Group C, plus working out the best third-placed finishers as in previous years. Your team has to be in the overall top eight or it does not advance to the post-season.
Only Atlas and Tijuana appear to have little to zero chance of making the playoffs, but they have their own relegation battle to fight along with Estudiantes Tecos.
In summary, every single team still has lots to play for, which is great news for the league and even better news for the fans.
Keep It Simple, Stupid: Hire The Right Coach And Give Him Enough Time
After nine rounds of games in the Mexican Primera's Apertura tournament, one third of teams have a different manager than the one who started the season.
Six managers have been fired or forced out since the opening day of July 22nd, but the statistic says more about the way clubs are run than the quality of coaching in Mexico.
The constant hiring and firing of coaches reveals an inherent failure in the selection process as well as a lack of structure, authority, and patience within clubs.
Club América, one of Mexico's "big two," freely throws money around to buy players, as the ten million dollars for Christian Benítez this summer showed. At the same time, though, the club fails to keep faith with the coaches who sign the talent, leading to confusion amongst the playing staff. The latest victim on the América bench was Carlos Reinoso, who was out as manager following last week's loss to Jaguares.
Said Argentine striker Matías Vuoso recently: "It could be that we (the team) are not understanding each other well. We are a team that doesn't know how to play (with each other). I'm not blaming anyone because it is our fault."
Since Vuoso signed with América just over one year ago in July 2010 he has played under three different coaches, hardly an ideal situation.
The players at América brought in by different coaches have failed to gel. In short, there has been no guiding vision of where the club is going playing-wise. These problems are brought on by haphazard spending by a mish-mash of recent coaches, who all brought their own individual ideas to the table.
A manager needs time to get established and build a team. Clubs also have to improve the management selection process and get someone who fits the club's vision.
José Luis "Chelis" Sánchez seemed the perfect fit for Estudiantes Tecos when he joined in November 2010. Previously successful with Puebla, another one of Mexico's lesser known teams, Chelis took over a team at Tecos looking over its shoulder at the relegation table.
At the end of his first tournament in charge, Tecos finished third from bottom of the general table. Team ownership liked enough of what they saw, though, to remain confident in Chelis. He stayed on as manager and was charged with overseeing the influx of eleven new players over the summer, in a bid to move away from the relegation zone.
Four games into this season, he was sacked.
Again, if directors have the confidence to hire a manager and let him spend their money, they must give him sufficient time to mold the team.
A few statistics:
-Liverpool (5 European Cups, 18 English titles) has had 20 managers in 126 years. The record number of coaches fired in a five-month season in Mexico is 10 (Apertura 2005)
-Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, known in England for his ruthlessness in firing managers, has only had seven in his eight years at the club.
-So far this season, Santos, Atlas, América, Querétaro, Estudiantes Tecos, and Club Tijuana have ousted their managers.
Six managers have been fired or forced out since the opening day of July 22nd, but the statistic says more about the way clubs are run than the quality of coaching in Mexico.
The constant hiring and firing of coaches reveals an inherent failure in the selection process as well as a lack of structure, authority, and patience within clubs.
Club América, one of Mexico's "big two," freely throws money around to buy players, as the ten million dollars for Christian Benítez this summer showed. At the same time, though, the club fails to keep faith with the coaches who sign the talent, leading to confusion amongst the playing staff. The latest victim on the América bench was Carlos Reinoso, who was out as manager following last week's loss to Jaguares.
Said Argentine striker Matías Vuoso recently: "It could be that we (the team) are not understanding each other well. We are a team that doesn't know how to play (with each other). I'm not blaming anyone because it is our fault."
Since Vuoso signed with América just over one year ago in July 2010 he has played under three different coaches, hardly an ideal situation.
The players at América brought in by different coaches have failed to gel. In short, there has been no guiding vision of where the club is going playing-wise. These problems are brought on by haphazard spending by a mish-mash of recent coaches, who all brought their own individual ideas to the table.
A manager needs time to get established and build a team. Clubs also have to improve the management selection process and get someone who fits the club's vision.
José Luis "Chelis" Sánchez seemed the perfect fit for Estudiantes Tecos when he joined in November 2010. Previously successful with Puebla, another one of Mexico's lesser known teams, Chelis took over a team at Tecos looking over its shoulder at the relegation table.
At the end of his first tournament in charge, Tecos finished third from bottom of the general table. Team ownership liked enough of what they saw, though, to remain confident in Chelis. He stayed on as manager and was charged with overseeing the influx of eleven new players over the summer, in a bid to move away from the relegation zone.
Four games into this season, he was sacked.
Again, if directors have the confidence to hire a manager and let him spend their money, they must give him sufficient time to mold the team.
A few statistics:
-Liverpool (5 European Cups, 18 English titles) has had 20 managers in 126 years. The record number of coaches fired in a five-month season in Mexico is 10 (Apertura 2005)
-Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, known in England for his ruthlessness in firing managers, has only had seven in his eight years at the club.
-So far this season, Santos, Atlas, América, Querétaro, Estudiantes Tecos, and Club Tijuana have ousted their managers.
Santos Vs. Morelia: Possible Repercussions Of Shooting In Torreon
Most Mexican football fans have now seen the video footage of players and officials fleeing the field of play Saturday evening at Estadio Corona in Torreon. It was the first time the complicated battle between drug cartels and authorities visibly entered the world of Mexican football. The sound of gunshots halted play between Santos Laguna and Monarcas Morelia in the 40th minute, and sent players and fans fleeing for safety. If there is a positive, the cause of the confrontation had absolutely nothing to with the football match. The incident actually occurred outside of the stadium when narcos in a pick-up truck accidently drove up to an army checkpoint, producing a brief firefight.
The big questions now concern the negative impact of this event. What are some of the potential repercussions for the Mexican game that was riding a wave of success following Chicharito’s success, the Gold Cup, the U17s World Cup win and the U20s finishing third place in their recent World Cup?
1) Less people will go to games
One of the best things about going to a Mexican football stadium is the diversity of the fans. Whole families head to the games with kids in tow. Women make up a large percentage of attendees. Teenagers can afford to go with their friends - something that certainly has been lost in, say, the English Premier League. Opposition fans even sit side by side with no segregation.
The safety of the stadium has now been rocked. Nightclubs in many Mexican cities, especially in the north, are a lot less busy these days due to high profile attacks inside and outside them. A similar thing could happen in football.
2) Players will not come
With its high wages, Mexican football has pulled some of South America’s best talents to its domestic league. Chilean Humberto Suazo and Ecuadorian Christian Benitez are the highest profile current examples. Benitez cited the situation in Torreon as one of the reasons he moved from Santos to America (Mexico City) in June. Two players left Guadalajara clubs for foreign ones because of extortion threats in late 2010. Then there is the sad case of Salvador Cabañas, shot in the head in a Mexico City nightclub in January 2010. There will come a point where these quality players who add so much to the league simply decide it isn’t worth the risk.
3) Players will leave
It is generally agreed that Mexico has an embarrassment of youth talent. European clubs are fighting over various players from the U17 and U20 national squads. The general consensus in Mexico has been that these players should stay and gain experience in the Primera Division before moving to the other side of the pond. The youngsters may push that little bit more forcefully after witnessing the proximity of the shootout on Saturday to a football stadium.
4) Impact on Santos Laguna
"We will not reduce our efforts to bring happiness to families and to contribute to society," said Santos President Alejandro Irarragorri, who has been widely praised for his role in speaking to the crowd inside the stadium after the shooting had died down.
Admirable words but Santos could now face a really hard time. The first tasks are to keep going, rearrange the game against Morelia, and play the next home game against Chivas on September 10 without any further incidents.
In the medium term, it will be difficult to attract players, fans are unlikely to attend the stadium in the same numbers, and one or two players may think about leaving. It is not just the events on Saturday but a series of violent acts in Torreon and the state of Coahuila as cartels battle it out for control of drug routes.
Captain Oswaldo Sanchez, who went to protect his family as bullets were being fired, said he is not scared of the situation. Others might be.
5) People power
Football is part of the fabric of Mexican life. The shooting outside the Estadio Corona was widely denounced on social networking websites. Many were appalled at the scenes of parents carrying their kids over the pitch and people crying. Hopefully there will be a real effort on the part of society in general, and authorities, to keep this kind of incident far outside the world of football.
The big questions now concern the negative impact of this event. What are some of the potential repercussions for the Mexican game that was riding a wave of success following Chicharito’s success, the Gold Cup, the U17s World Cup win and the U20s finishing third place in their recent World Cup?
1) Less people will go to games
One of the best things about going to a Mexican football stadium is the diversity of the fans. Whole families head to the games with kids in tow. Women make up a large percentage of attendees. Teenagers can afford to go with their friends - something that certainly has been lost in, say, the English Premier League. Opposition fans even sit side by side with no segregation.
The safety of the stadium has now been rocked. Nightclubs in many Mexican cities, especially in the north, are a lot less busy these days due to high profile attacks inside and outside them. A similar thing could happen in football.
2) Players will not come
With its high wages, Mexican football has pulled some of South America’s best talents to its domestic league. Chilean Humberto Suazo and Ecuadorian Christian Benitez are the highest profile current examples. Benitez cited the situation in Torreon as one of the reasons he moved from Santos to America (Mexico City) in June. Two players left Guadalajara clubs for foreign ones because of extortion threats in late 2010. Then there is the sad case of Salvador Cabañas, shot in the head in a Mexico City nightclub in January 2010. There will come a point where these quality players who add so much to the league simply decide it isn’t worth the risk.
3) Players will leave
It is generally agreed that Mexico has an embarrassment of youth talent. European clubs are fighting over various players from the U17 and U20 national squads. The general consensus in Mexico has been that these players should stay and gain experience in the Primera Division before moving to the other side of the pond. The youngsters may push that little bit more forcefully after witnessing the proximity of the shootout on Saturday to a football stadium.
4) Impact on Santos Laguna
"We will not reduce our efforts to bring happiness to families and to contribute to society," said Santos President Alejandro Irarragorri, who has been widely praised for his role in speaking to the crowd inside the stadium after the shooting had died down.
Admirable words but Santos could now face a really hard time. The first tasks are to keep going, rearrange the game against Morelia, and play the next home game against Chivas on September 10 without any further incidents.
In the medium term, it will be difficult to attract players, fans are unlikely to attend the stadium in the same numbers, and one or two players may think about leaving. It is not just the events on Saturday but a series of violent acts in Torreon and the state of Coahuila as cartels battle it out for control of drug routes.
Captain Oswaldo Sanchez, who went to protect his family as bullets were being fired, said he is not scared of the situation. Others might be.
5) People power
Football is part of the fabric of Mexican life. The shooting outside the Estadio Corona was widely denounced on social networking websites. Many were appalled at the scenes of parents carrying their kids over the pitch and people crying. Hopefully there will be a real effort on the part of society in general, and authorities, to keep this kind of incident far outside the world of football.
Chivas Vs. Pumas: Battle of Youth and Class
Two of Mexico's "grandes," Chivas and Pumas, face off on Saturday night in what can legitimately be described as one of the most exciting games for the neutral Mexican football fan for some time. One big reason for the excitement is the amount of young Mexican talent displayed on both the Chivas and Pumas rosters.
Champions in the Clausura 2011, Pumas are riding on the crest of a wave following last season's glory, which delicately blended youth and experience. In the offseason, the institution had the confidence in the youth to shed experienced heads like Leandro Augusto, Jehu Chiapas, Israel Castro, and Dante López. A year ago, Pumas also lost some of their best, established young players in Efraín Juárez and Pablo Barrera, while six-months ago long-time goalkeeper Segio Bernal hung up his gloves. In their places have come youth products who have patiently waited for their chances: Alejandro Palacios, Javier Cortés, David Cabrera, Luis Fuentes, Eduardo Herrera, and Aaron Sandoval.
The general consensus is that the 1993 Copa América was the golden age of the Pumas youth system, with legends like Jorge Campos, Hugo Sánchez, and Claudio Súarez all starting in the final against Argentina. The word seems to be that the Pumas cantera (literally meaning "quarry") is back to producing real gems.
Guadalajara Chivas has long produced quality talent, partly because they have to. Only Mexicans play for Chivas, and it is well-known in Mexico that other clubs tend to inflate the price for players when Chivas are sniffing around.
Five of the starters from the Under-20 team's match against England on Thursday belong to Chivas, including the much-hyped Erick "Cubo" Torres. Amongst the Under-17 World Cup winners was Carlos Fierro, as well as two other Chivas players. Aside from Omar Arellano (who started his career with Chivas but moved to Pachuca with his father), all the Chivas players likely to start against Pumas will have come from the club´s youth system.
The ultimate recent success of Chivas players succeeding in Europe is Javier "Chicharito" Hernández. He's not the only one, though. Carlos Salcido, "Maza" Rodriguez, and Carlos Vela are all currently plying their trade across the Atlantic.
Even before Jorge Vergara took over the club in 2002, Chivas reformed their youth system. Vergara has strengthened the system and is adamant that new "signings" come in the form of promoting youth players into the first team squad, rather than bringing in outsiders.
There is also the real possibility that a number of the players involved on Saturday will be playing in Europe in the near future. Neither Chivas nor Pumas are against selling players to European clubs once players have established themselves in the first team.
But this is not just a game to spot up-and-coming talent. Both Pumas and Chivas are considered challengers for the Apertura 2011 title, along with Mexico´s other two "grandes," América and Cruz Azul, and Monterrey.
The difference in philosophy between Mexico´s four grandes is vast and enhances the Mexican league. On one side, América and Cruz Azul tend to spend big and buy players already established elsewhere. América splashed out on a deal worth almost 10 million dollars to bring Christian Benítez from Santos, and Cruz Azul rarely field homegrown talent.
On the other hand, Pumas and Chivas are gambling on their youth structures to provide them with the next big star, some of whom will be on display Saturday night.
Champions in the Clausura 2011, Pumas are riding on the crest of a wave following last season's glory, which delicately blended youth and experience. In the offseason, the institution had the confidence in the youth to shed experienced heads like Leandro Augusto, Jehu Chiapas, Israel Castro, and Dante López. A year ago, Pumas also lost some of their best, established young players in Efraín Juárez and Pablo Barrera, while six-months ago long-time goalkeeper Segio Bernal hung up his gloves. In their places have come youth products who have patiently waited for their chances: Alejandro Palacios, Javier Cortés, David Cabrera, Luis Fuentes, Eduardo Herrera, and Aaron Sandoval.
The general consensus is that the 1993 Copa América was the golden age of the Pumas youth system, with legends like Jorge Campos, Hugo Sánchez, and Claudio Súarez all starting in the final against Argentina. The word seems to be that the Pumas cantera (literally meaning "quarry") is back to producing real gems.
Guadalajara Chivas has long produced quality talent, partly because they have to. Only Mexicans play for Chivas, and it is well-known in Mexico that other clubs tend to inflate the price for players when Chivas are sniffing around.
Five of the starters from the Under-20 team's match against England on Thursday belong to Chivas, including the much-hyped Erick "Cubo" Torres. Amongst the Under-17 World Cup winners was Carlos Fierro, as well as two other Chivas players. Aside from Omar Arellano (who started his career with Chivas but moved to Pachuca with his father), all the Chivas players likely to start against Pumas will have come from the club´s youth system.
The ultimate recent success of Chivas players succeeding in Europe is Javier "Chicharito" Hernández. He's not the only one, though. Carlos Salcido, "Maza" Rodriguez, and Carlos Vela are all currently plying their trade across the Atlantic.
Even before Jorge Vergara took over the club in 2002, Chivas reformed their youth system. Vergara has strengthened the system and is adamant that new "signings" come in the form of promoting youth players into the first team squad, rather than bringing in outsiders.
There is also the real possibility that a number of the players involved on Saturday will be playing in Europe in the near future. Neither Chivas nor Pumas are against selling players to European clubs once players have established themselves in the first team.
But this is not just a game to spot up-and-coming talent. Both Pumas and Chivas are considered challengers for the Apertura 2011 title, along with Mexico´s other two "grandes," América and Cruz Azul, and Monterrey.
The difference in philosophy between Mexico´s four grandes is vast and enhances the Mexican league. On one side, América and Cruz Azul tend to spend big and buy players already established elsewhere. América splashed out on a deal worth almost 10 million dollars to bring Christian Benítez from Santos, and Cruz Azul rarely field homegrown talent.
On the other hand, Pumas and Chivas are gambling on their youth structures to provide them with the next big star, some of whom will be on display Saturday night.
Mexican Primera Division, Apertura 2011: Preview And Predictions
After Mexican national teams took the spotlight by winning the Copa America and the Under-17s World Cup, it is back to domestic action as the Apertura 2011 gets underway this evening.
It promises to be an intriguing season. What effect will 10 million-dollar man Christian Benítez have on a Club América side desperate for a trophy? What will be the role of the plucky U-17 World Champions who stole headlines all summer? How will unknown quantities Puebla, Tijuana and Estudiantes Tecos fair? Can Adolfo “Bofo” Bautista find the back of the net? Then there is Guadalajara Chivas, floating precariously between genius and disaster.
One thing is for certain: it promises to be a rollercoaster ride and should be much easier to follow for the neutral now that the top eight teams in the general table automatically qualify for the playoffs.
Here are some brief predictions. All opinions are my own. Please throw in your two-pesos worth in the comments section.
Tigres
A strong line-up from last season´s top finishers in the general table. Potential champions.
Monterrey
The CONCACAF Champions League winners are the best team in Mexico and can now rely on César Delgado too. Favourites.
Pachuca
Wise-signings such as Elias Hernández should see Pachuca in the playoff mix.
Santos
The loss of Christian Benítez would hurt any side and although Santos are no mugs without him, they can expect to be in the mid-table dogfight.
Cruz Azul
Mexico´s nearly team should, once again, be right in the mix this season. Whether the club can lift some silverware is another matter altogether.
Toluca
At the start of a rebuilding process. Can´t see anything special from Mexico´s Red Devils.
Chivas
With a disrupted preseason due to players being all over the world with various national teams, the start is vital for Chivas. Start the season without main striker Erick “Cubo” Torres, who is at the U-20s World Cup. Mid-table.
Atlante
Will be difficult for the Cancun-based team. “El Hobbit” Bermúdez stayed at the club although it´s difficult to see them doing much this Apertura 2011.
América
Personally can´t wait to see what América do. Coach Reinoso is known for his attacking mentality and with Christian Benítez now at the club, they promise exciting football. Just don´t mention that leaky defence … Playoff prospects.
Morelia
Hard to see the team reach the final like in the Clausura 2011, especially with the loss of the dangerous Elias Hernández. Still should be in the playoff hunt with Tomás Boy steering the ship.
Puebla
The dark horse following 18 new signings. Luis García and DaMarcus Beasley could set the league alight. If Sergio Bueno can get the team playing, the playoffs beckon.
Atlas
Rúben Omar Romano is a top manager but as long as Atlas sell their best youngsters (Edgar Pacheco, Darvín Chávez) and buy in sub-standard foreigners, they won´t do anything in a strong Primera División.
Estudiantes Tecos
Shrewd signings from coach Chelís in the offseason. A team looking to move away from relegation with a vastly experienced squad following a poor showing in the Clausura. Mid-table.
Pumas
Reigning champions Pumas have lost experienced duo Leandro and Israel Castro. Playoffs. Another final is unlikely.
Jaguares
New strikers brought in but unlikely to make a serious impact.
Querétaro
Favourites for the drop. Bottom place.
San Luis
Strong preseason and, while not having the attacking flair of other teams, will be difficult to beat. Another team that could surprise.
Tijuana
An unknown quantity. Leandro Augusto, Colombian striker Dayro Moreno and Jose Sand are proven performers. Mid-table.
It promises to be an intriguing season. What effect will 10 million-dollar man Christian Benítez have on a Club América side desperate for a trophy? What will be the role of the plucky U-17 World Champions who stole headlines all summer? How will unknown quantities Puebla, Tijuana and Estudiantes Tecos fair? Can Adolfo “Bofo” Bautista find the back of the net? Then there is Guadalajara Chivas, floating precariously between genius and disaster.
One thing is for certain: it promises to be a rollercoaster ride and should be much easier to follow for the neutral now that the top eight teams in the general table automatically qualify for the playoffs.
Here are some brief predictions. All opinions are my own. Please throw in your two-pesos worth in the comments section.
Tigres
A strong line-up from last season´s top finishers in the general table. Potential champions.
Monterrey
The CONCACAF Champions League winners are the best team in Mexico and can now rely on César Delgado too. Favourites.
Pachuca
Wise-signings such as Elias Hernández should see Pachuca in the playoff mix.
Santos
The loss of Christian Benítez would hurt any side and although Santos are no mugs without him, they can expect to be in the mid-table dogfight.
Cruz Azul
Mexico´s nearly team should, once again, be right in the mix this season. Whether the club can lift some silverware is another matter altogether.
Toluca
At the start of a rebuilding process. Can´t see anything special from Mexico´s Red Devils.
Chivas
With a disrupted preseason due to players being all over the world with various national teams, the start is vital for Chivas. Start the season without main striker Erick “Cubo” Torres, who is at the U-20s World Cup. Mid-table.
Atlante
Will be difficult for the Cancun-based team. “El Hobbit” Bermúdez stayed at the club although it´s difficult to see them doing much this Apertura 2011.
América
Personally can´t wait to see what América do. Coach Reinoso is known for his attacking mentality and with Christian Benítez now at the club, they promise exciting football. Just don´t mention that leaky defence … Playoff prospects.
Morelia
Hard to see the team reach the final like in the Clausura 2011, especially with the loss of the dangerous Elias Hernández. Still should be in the playoff hunt with Tomás Boy steering the ship.
Puebla
The dark horse following 18 new signings. Luis García and DaMarcus Beasley could set the league alight. If Sergio Bueno can get the team playing, the playoffs beckon.
Atlas
Rúben Omar Romano is a top manager but as long as Atlas sell their best youngsters (Edgar Pacheco, Darvín Chávez) and buy in sub-standard foreigners, they won´t do anything in a strong Primera División.
Estudiantes Tecos
Shrewd signings from coach Chelís in the offseason. A team looking to move away from relegation with a vastly experienced squad following a poor showing in the Clausura. Mid-table.
Pumas
Reigning champions Pumas have lost experienced duo Leandro and Israel Castro. Playoffs. Another final is unlikely.
Jaguares
New strikers brought in but unlikely to make a serious impact.
Querétaro
Favourites for the drop. Bottom place.
San Luis
Strong preseason and, while not having the attacking flair of other teams, will be difficult to beat. Another team that could surprise.
Tijuana
An unknown quantity. Leandro Augusto, Colombian striker Dayro Moreno and Jose Sand are proven performers. Mid-table.
Monday, 11 July 2011
World Football Daily: Mexico U17
Discussing Mexico Under 17s; world champions, no less. On www.worldfootballdaily.com
Saturday, 4 June 2011
The rivalry that defines the Gold Cup: Mexico and the United States
The CONCACAF Gold Cup does not top any list of prestigious international tournaments. That much is certain.
Nevertheless, the competition pits Mexico against the United States in a hotly contested dual for continental (obviously north of Panama) supremacy that has repercussions off the field too.
Football is Mexico’s national sport. It is rare that any other sport is featured as the main story in the daily sports newspapers. Unlike some Caribbean countries that were part of the Spanish empire and then fell under the U.S. sphere of influence and then took to American baseball, Mexico didn’t to the same degree.
By the time Cubans and Dominicans were learning the basics of baseball in the late 19th century, Mexicans had already taken to a game brought to Hidalgo state by a group of Cornish (English) miners.
Mexico considers football its sport. There are even theories that versions of the game were actually invented by indigenous groups before the Spanish conquest. (I've spoken to an indigenous sports expert about this and he claimed that it is likely a game similar to football was played in Mexico/Central America; we just haven't found the evidence yet)
That aside, the game became defined as the national sport because it was a way for the country to continually get one over on the United States in an otherwise unbalanced relationship.
“They may be richer, more populous and bigger than us and they may not treat us very well when we go up there to work,” went the common Mexican perception. “But how good is it when we beat them at football?”
You probably don’t need to be told that the status quo has changed since then. I don’t know if Mexicans receive a warmer welcome up north, but the United States has developed a strong national team and structured the domestic game. The national team can compete against any team in the world on its day.
The U.S. has now overtaken Mexico in the exportation of players abroad to gain vital experience. The U.S. squad now has 16 players in their 23-man squad playing outside the United States. Mexico has just nine.
Mexico finds itself in 28th place in the FIFA rankings, compared to the U.S. in 22nd.
The omens look ominous but where does that leave Mexico?
The team don’t look in bad shape. Indeed Mexico, according to bet365, are favourites to win the Gold Cup at 11/8 (2.38). The U.S. come in at 13/8 (2.63). In other words, there isn’t much between the teams.
Thousands of column inches have been written in praise of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez this season. He is obviously a big plus for the national team and a potential match-winner. He is also the main focus of fan adoration amongst Mexicans and Mexican-Americans.
More importantly in terms of the rivalry, Chicharito is also the kind of player that the United States would love to produce but has thus far failed to do so: a media-friendly, easy-on-the-eye winner. In other words, a global star to pin their hopes onto and raise the profile of the national game. Landon Donovan looked to be getting there but opted to stay in Los Angeles.
The crux of the current Mexican situation on the field though is the agitation surrounding the Mexican players that are around the same age as Chicharito. The Gold Cup is a chance to shine in the shop window for players looking to move from their present clubs: Guillermo Ochoa, Pablo Barrera, Andres Guardado, Aldo de Nigris, Hector Moreno, Angel Reyna, Efrain Juarez and Giovani Dos Santos.
If you exclude de Nigris, the dynamic of the Mexico-U.S. rivalry will be shaped largely to how those players develop over the next few years. Few dare to question their natural talent. Many in the know believe some of the above have more talent than Chicharito but lack the maturity to perform week in, week out. Now is the time for them to step up and follow the Manchester United man's lead.
So, on paper, the U.S. and Mexico go into the Gold Cup seemingly on par despite the U.S.’s steep rise in performance over the last 10-15 years. Which way the dynamic goes in the next 10 years promises to be fascinating.
Home advantage?
All the games for this year’s Gold Cup, as in every other edition of the tournament bar the few times Mexico were co-host, will be played in the United States. That is a discernible disadvantage for the other teams. However, in the case of Mexico, it makes little difference. Mexicans and Mexican-Americans based in the United States will be backing the Tri in their droves.
It’s another dimension of the U.S.-Mexico rivalry which continues to dominate, and almost overshadow, the Gold Cup.
The improvement of the U.S., as well as the dominance of both countries, is visibly identifiable when we look as the past winners of the Gold Cup since 1991. Only Canada has bucked the trend. In reverse order the winners are:
Mexico
USA
USA
Mexico
USA
Canada
Mexico
Mexico
Mexico
USA
Nevertheless, the competition pits Mexico against the United States in a hotly contested dual for continental (obviously north of Panama) supremacy that has repercussions off the field too.
Football is Mexico’s national sport. It is rare that any other sport is featured as the main story in the daily sports newspapers. Unlike some Caribbean countries that were part of the Spanish empire and then fell under the U.S. sphere of influence and then took to American baseball, Mexico didn’t to the same degree.
By the time Cubans and Dominicans were learning the basics of baseball in the late 19th century, Mexicans had already taken to a game brought to Hidalgo state by a group of Cornish (English) miners.
Mexico considers football its sport. There are even theories that versions of the game were actually invented by indigenous groups before the Spanish conquest. (I've spoken to an indigenous sports expert about this and he claimed that it is likely a game similar to football was played in Mexico/Central America; we just haven't found the evidence yet)
That aside, the game became defined as the national sport because it was a way for the country to continually get one over on the United States in an otherwise unbalanced relationship.
“They may be richer, more populous and bigger than us and they may not treat us very well when we go up there to work,” went the common Mexican perception. “But how good is it when we beat them at football?”
You probably don’t need to be told that the status quo has changed since then. I don’t know if Mexicans receive a warmer welcome up north, but the United States has developed a strong national team and structured the domestic game. The national team can compete against any team in the world on its day.
The U.S. has now overtaken Mexico in the exportation of players abroad to gain vital experience. The U.S. squad now has 16 players in their 23-man squad playing outside the United States. Mexico has just nine.
Mexico finds itself in 28th place in the FIFA rankings, compared to the U.S. in 22nd.
The omens look ominous but where does that leave Mexico?
The team don’t look in bad shape. Indeed Mexico, according to bet365, are favourites to win the Gold Cup at 11/8 (2.38). The U.S. come in at 13/8 (2.63). In other words, there isn’t much between the teams.
Thousands of column inches have been written in praise of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez this season. He is obviously a big plus for the national team and a potential match-winner. He is also the main focus of fan adoration amongst Mexicans and Mexican-Americans.
More importantly in terms of the rivalry, Chicharito is also the kind of player that the United States would love to produce but has thus far failed to do so: a media-friendly, easy-on-the-eye winner. In other words, a global star to pin their hopes onto and raise the profile of the national game. Landon Donovan looked to be getting there but opted to stay in Los Angeles.
The crux of the current Mexican situation on the field though is the agitation surrounding the Mexican players that are around the same age as Chicharito. The Gold Cup is a chance to shine in the shop window for players looking to move from their present clubs: Guillermo Ochoa, Pablo Barrera, Andres Guardado, Aldo de Nigris, Hector Moreno, Angel Reyna, Efrain Juarez and Giovani Dos Santos.
If you exclude de Nigris, the dynamic of the Mexico-U.S. rivalry will be shaped largely to how those players develop over the next few years. Few dare to question their natural talent. Many in the know believe some of the above have more talent than Chicharito but lack the maturity to perform week in, week out. Now is the time for them to step up and follow the Manchester United man's lead.
So, on paper, the U.S. and Mexico go into the Gold Cup seemingly on par despite the U.S.’s steep rise in performance over the last 10-15 years. Which way the dynamic goes in the next 10 years promises to be fascinating.
Home advantage?
All the games for this year’s Gold Cup, as in every other edition of the tournament bar the few times Mexico were co-host, will be played in the United States. That is a discernible disadvantage for the other teams. However, in the case of Mexico, it makes little difference. Mexicans and Mexican-Americans based in the United States will be backing the Tri in their droves.
It’s another dimension of the U.S.-Mexico rivalry which continues to dominate, and almost overshadow, the Gold Cup.
The improvement of the U.S., as well as the dominance of both countries, is visibly identifiable when we look as the past winners of the Gold Cup since 1991. Only Canada has bucked the trend. In reverse order the winners are:
Mexico
USA
USA
Mexico
USA
Canada
Mexico
Mexico
Mexico
USA
Chicharito looks to fire Mexico to international glory
Mexico kicks off its Gold Cup campaign on Sunday against El Salvador with Manchester United striker Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez looking for his first piece of international silverware.
The Manchester United man has scored 20 goals this season and arrives at the competition in the United States off the back of a sensational debut season for the Reds.
Back in Mexico, the media is looking to their new star to lead the team to glory but Chicharito, down-to-earth as always, has played down his significance to the Mexican team.
I don't feel like the symbol, the idol, or the reference point of anything, as I have said in Manchester," explained Hernandez during a press conference with the national team. "I've never considered myself better because I play in Europe."
In total, Mexico has won the CONCACAF Gold Cup five times, more than any other nation. However, the United States has become a serious challenge to Mexico' s hegemony over the last 15 years. The last two finals have been between Mexico and the United States. In this year's competition the U.S. team features former United players Jonathan Spector and Tim Howard. Strong challenges may also come from Costa Rica and Honduras. The winner of the competition qualifies for the Confederations Cup.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has previously said that the young Mexican striker won't be available for the Copa America, in which Mexico will field a team of mainly Under-22s mixed with five older players.
Mexico open their Gold Cup campaign against El Salvador on Sunday, June 5 at 8 p.m. Eastern time/ 7 p.m. Mexico time in Arlington Texas. Chicharito has declared himself ready to start.
The Manchester United man has scored 20 goals this season and arrives at the competition in the United States off the back of a sensational debut season for the Reds.
Back in Mexico, the media is looking to their new star to lead the team to glory but Chicharito, down-to-earth as always, has played down his significance to the Mexican team.
I don't feel like the symbol, the idol, or the reference point of anything, as I have said in Manchester," explained Hernandez during a press conference with the national team. "I've never considered myself better because I play in Europe."
In total, Mexico has won the CONCACAF Gold Cup five times, more than any other nation. However, the United States has become a serious challenge to Mexico' s hegemony over the last 15 years. The last two finals have been between Mexico and the United States. In this year's competition the U.S. team features former United players Jonathan Spector and Tim Howard. Strong challenges may also come from Costa Rica and Honduras. The winner of the competition qualifies for the Confederations Cup.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has previously said that the young Mexican striker won't be available for the Copa America, in which Mexico will field a team of mainly Under-22s mixed with five older players.
Mexico open their Gold Cup campaign against El Salvador on Sunday, June 5 at 8 p.m. Eastern time/ 7 p.m. Mexico time in Arlington Texas. Chicharito has declared himself ready to start.
Chicharito's Final?
Forget about Messi, Xavi, Rooney and Giggs.
Whatever happens Saturday afternoon at Wembley between Manchester United and Barcelona, as far as Mexicans are concerned, this is Chicharito's final.
"This lad has Mexico head over heels..." reads the front page headline on a local sports daily three days before the final. The accompanying photo is an upside down photo of the Manchester United star designed to hammer home the point.
Plans are already well underway as to where people are watching the final. Bars and restaurants are expecting bumper crowds. Three separate television channels are showing the game live. The Mexico friendly against Ecuador that kicks off at 3.15 p.m. will be shown on delay. (The Champions League final will finish at around 3:45 p.m. local time)
"When the celebrations have finished, the Mexico-Ecuador game will be shown on Channel 2 with a delay," Javier Alarcon, sports chief at Televisa told the press.
Alcaron added that Televisa had warned Mexican Football Federation executives weeks ago that they would prioritize the Champions League and that the time of the Mexico game should be moved.
Over on Fox Sports, Fausto Ceballos, Vice-President of Programming, is expecting records to be shattered.
Said Ceballos: "I believe that this game [United v Barca] will break viewing figure records for the channel due to the coverage and interest that it is generating."
Outside the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, around 2,500 people are expected to gather to watch the game on big screens Nike are providing.
The debate at taco stands and coffee shops in Chicharito's home town of Guadalajara has recently turned to whether their most famous son will start, and Manchester United's chances against a formidable Barcelona side. The former Chivas player who is the third generation of his family to play for the Mexican national team is already a firm local idol. Sports newspapers regularly carry his photo on the front page. The reason isn't hard to fathom: his popularity boosts sales.
At a time when a quick Google search for Mexico produces nothing but negative headlines, Chicharito is almost the opposite: a Mexican who lives a clean life, loves his country and, most importantly, is positively successful.
It´s difficult to overemphasize what Chicharito has achieved this year and what it means to Mexicans, Mexican-Americans, and Mexican football. There was even a debate on a radio show about whether Chicharito or the Pope had been better for the Catholic Church over the last year! Few predicted he would make such an impact over a year ago when his face was unexpectedly glaring back from all the newspapers after signing for Manchester United.
No Mexican has ever scored in a Champions League Final. Nobody in Mexico wants to add any extra pressure but, with the way Chicharito has smashed through every hurdle put in front of him and risen to every challenge, would you bet against him?
Whatever happens Saturday afternoon at Wembley between Manchester United and Barcelona, as far as Mexicans are concerned, this is Chicharito's final.
"This lad has Mexico head over heels..." reads the front page headline on a local sports daily three days before the final. The accompanying photo is an upside down photo of the Manchester United star designed to hammer home the point.
Plans are already well underway as to where people are watching the final. Bars and restaurants are expecting bumper crowds. Three separate television channels are showing the game live. The Mexico friendly against Ecuador that kicks off at 3.15 p.m. will be shown on delay. (The Champions League final will finish at around 3:45 p.m. local time)
"When the celebrations have finished, the Mexico-Ecuador game will be shown on Channel 2 with a delay," Javier Alarcon, sports chief at Televisa told the press.
Alcaron added that Televisa had warned Mexican Football Federation executives weeks ago that they would prioritize the Champions League and that the time of the Mexico game should be moved.
Over on Fox Sports, Fausto Ceballos, Vice-President of Programming, is expecting records to be shattered.
Said Ceballos: "I believe that this game [United v Barca] will break viewing figure records for the channel due to the coverage and interest that it is generating."
Outside the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, around 2,500 people are expected to gather to watch the game on big screens Nike are providing.
The debate at taco stands and coffee shops in Chicharito's home town of Guadalajara has recently turned to whether their most famous son will start, and Manchester United's chances against a formidable Barcelona side. The former Chivas player who is the third generation of his family to play for the Mexican national team is already a firm local idol. Sports newspapers regularly carry his photo on the front page. The reason isn't hard to fathom: his popularity boosts sales.
At a time when a quick Google search for Mexico produces nothing but negative headlines, Chicharito is almost the opposite: a Mexican who lives a clean life, loves his country and, most importantly, is positively successful.
It´s difficult to overemphasize what Chicharito has achieved this year and what it means to Mexicans, Mexican-Americans, and Mexican football. There was even a debate on a radio show about whether Chicharito or the Pope had been better for the Catholic Church over the last year! Few predicted he would make such an impact over a year ago when his face was unexpectedly glaring back from all the newspapers after signing for Manchester United.
No Mexican has ever scored in a Champions League Final. Nobody in Mexico wants to add any extra pressure but, with the way Chicharito has smashed through every hurdle put in front of him and risen to every challenge, would you bet against him?
Pumas UNAM: Worthy Champions
Looking back on the Mexican season that ended with a wonder goal by Pumas UNAM youngster Javier Cortes to seal the final against Monarcas Morelia, it seems fitting and logical that the Mexico City university team should win the league.
Combining players that were sprouted from the team´s youth system – Javier Cortes, David Cabrera, Antonio Palacios, Marco Antonio Palacios, Israel Castro, Efrain Velarde, Luis Fuentes – with foreign stalwarts like Argentine Martin Bravo, Paraguayan Dante Lopez, Brazilian Leandro and Francisco Palencia, proved a winning formula.
The reasons aren´t rocket science. The delicate balance between youth and experience was hit right on the head by Pumas and, aside from one bad result away at Monterrey, they won the playoffs with relative ease. The youngsters were hungry for a trophy while the older players knew that not many opportunities remain.
Star-divide
It is especially fitting that Palencia, the Mexican league´s equivalent of Ryan Giggs, should get two of the goals in the final for Pumas. Experience raised its hand to be counted. Then, in the 77th minute, youth had the final word. When Cortes picked up the ball in the 77th minute on the right wing, there seemed little threat to Vilar´s (Ringo Starr lookalike, anyone?) goal. Less than five seconds later the ball was in the net. Cortes had slalomed his way through three Morelia defenders and smashed the ball into the roof of the Morelia net.
The two goals on Sunday summarized the essence of Pumas this year. The blend of youth and experience, players brought up in the club and select foreigners, worked to clinical effect.
New players will be needed eventually for Pumas to maintain the delicate balance they obtained this season but fans won´t care about that right now. They are too busy celebrating.
The big question remains though. Why don´t other teams use the Pumas model?
Combining players that were sprouted from the team´s youth system – Javier Cortes, David Cabrera, Antonio Palacios, Marco Antonio Palacios, Israel Castro, Efrain Velarde, Luis Fuentes – with foreign stalwarts like Argentine Martin Bravo, Paraguayan Dante Lopez, Brazilian Leandro and Francisco Palencia, proved a winning formula.
The reasons aren´t rocket science. The delicate balance between youth and experience was hit right on the head by Pumas and, aside from one bad result away at Monterrey, they won the playoffs with relative ease. The youngsters were hungry for a trophy while the older players knew that not many opportunities remain.
Star-divide
It is especially fitting that Palencia, the Mexican league´s equivalent of Ryan Giggs, should get two of the goals in the final for Pumas. Experience raised its hand to be counted. Then, in the 77th minute, youth had the final word. When Cortes picked up the ball in the 77th minute on the right wing, there seemed little threat to Vilar´s (Ringo Starr lookalike, anyone?) goal. Less than five seconds later the ball was in the net. Cortes had slalomed his way through three Morelia defenders and smashed the ball into the roof of the Morelia net.
The two goals on Sunday summarized the essence of Pumas this year. The blend of youth and experience, players brought up in the club and select foreigners, worked to clinical effect.
New players will be needed eventually for Pumas to maintain the delicate balance they obtained this season but fans won´t care about that right now. They are too busy celebrating.
The big question remains though. Why don´t other teams use the Pumas model?
Monarcas Morelia Vs. Pumas UNAM 2011: Probable Lineups and Key Players
With the big final between the Morelia Monarchs of Michoacan and Pumas of the megalopolis that is Mexico City just hours away, what better time to take a look at the likely lineups for both teams, players to watch out for, and the stats of both managers.
Morelia (Probable) 4-4-1-1: F. Vilar (GK), A. Aldrete (LB), J. Huiqui (CB), A. Garcia (CB), E. Perez (RB), J. Rojas (LM), E. Hernandez (RM), J. Gastelum (CM), A. Leao (CM), M. Perez (AM), R. Marquez (F)
Pumas (Probable) 3-5-2: A. Palacios (GK), L.Fuentes (CB), D.Veron (CB), M.A. Palacios (CB), D. Cabrera (DM), I. Castro (DM), E. Velarde (LWB), J. Cortes (RWB), F. Palencia (AM), M. Bravo (F), D. Lopez (F)
Players to look out for:
MORELIA:
Elias Hernandez: The 23-year-old Morelia native will be keen for a big performance both to bring home the cup for his hometown team and to force his way into the national team squad. A good dribbler, fast and with an eye for goal, this could just be Hernandez's big chance.
Joao Rojas: The Ecuadorian, 21, is speedy and has the ability to hurt teams. Playing on the opposite flank to Hernandez the two of them provide width for Morelia. Rojas, in particular, was the spark when the Michoacan team beat Club America in the quarter finals. Has something of the Antonio Valencia about him.
Rafael Marquez: No, not that Rafa Marquez. This one has the nickname "The Unknown Marquez," is 29, plays for Morelia and is on form. Although he has flopped for other clubs, striker Marquez has 49 goals in 133 games for Morelia in his two spells at the club. Marquez also made his debut for a team called Pumas and would surely like to grab a couple of goals against them.His goals could be key to Morelia´s chances.
PUMAS:
A. Palacios: The goalkeeping half of the Pumas´ famous twins (the Pikolines). Antonio made a huge error against Chivas in the Estadio Omnilife but made up for it with a stirling performance in the second leg when Chivas were piling on pressure. Another big performance is required from the 30-year-old who doesn´t have that much first team experience.
Francisco Palencia: The Ryan Giggs of the Mexican league, Palencia just keeps going on and on. Famous for his long, pony-tailed hair, the 38-year-old will play just behind the strikers. On a good day he can control a game and pop up with a goal. His experience could be a vital factor.
Israel Castro: The 30-year-old is always there or thereabouts when it comes to picking the national team squad but there is no doubting his role for Pumas. The holding midfield debuted for Pumas and has played for them ever since. Will be key in breaking up Morelia´s forward surges and will be needed to guide fellow central midfielder David Cabrera through what is likely to be a nerve-racking two games.
Managers:
MORELIA:
Tomas Boy
Seasons in management: 20 (10 years approx)
Liguillas: 7
Semifinals: 4
PUMAS
Guillermo Vazquez
Seasons: 2
Games managed: 40
Liguillas: 2
Semifinals: 2
Morelia (Probable) 4-4-1-1: F. Vilar (GK), A. Aldrete (LB), J. Huiqui (CB), A. Garcia (CB), E. Perez (RB), J. Rojas (LM), E. Hernandez (RM), J. Gastelum (CM), A. Leao (CM), M. Perez (AM), R. Marquez (F)
Pumas (Probable) 3-5-2: A. Palacios (GK), L.Fuentes (CB), D.Veron (CB), M.A. Palacios (CB), D. Cabrera (DM), I. Castro (DM), E. Velarde (LWB), J. Cortes (RWB), F. Palencia (AM), M. Bravo (F), D. Lopez (F)
Players to look out for:
MORELIA:
Elias Hernandez: The 23-year-old Morelia native will be keen for a big performance both to bring home the cup for his hometown team and to force his way into the national team squad. A good dribbler, fast and with an eye for goal, this could just be Hernandez's big chance.
Joao Rojas: The Ecuadorian, 21, is speedy and has the ability to hurt teams. Playing on the opposite flank to Hernandez the two of them provide width for Morelia. Rojas, in particular, was the spark when the Michoacan team beat Club America in the quarter finals. Has something of the Antonio Valencia about him.
Rafael Marquez: No, not that Rafa Marquez. This one has the nickname "The Unknown Marquez," is 29, plays for Morelia and is on form. Although he has flopped for other clubs, striker Marquez has 49 goals in 133 games for Morelia in his two spells at the club. Marquez also made his debut for a team called Pumas and would surely like to grab a couple of goals against them.His goals could be key to Morelia´s chances.
PUMAS:
A. Palacios: The goalkeeping half of the Pumas´ famous twins (the Pikolines). Antonio made a huge error against Chivas in the Estadio Omnilife but made up for it with a stirling performance in the second leg when Chivas were piling on pressure. Another big performance is required from the 30-year-old who doesn´t have that much first team experience.
Francisco Palencia: The Ryan Giggs of the Mexican league, Palencia just keeps going on and on. Famous for his long, pony-tailed hair, the 38-year-old will play just behind the strikers. On a good day he can control a game and pop up with a goal. His experience could be a vital factor.
Israel Castro: The 30-year-old is always there or thereabouts when it comes to picking the national team squad but there is no doubting his role for Pumas. The holding midfield debuted for Pumas and has played for them ever since. Will be key in breaking up Morelia´s forward surges and will be needed to guide fellow central midfielder David Cabrera through what is likely to be a nerve-racking two games.
Managers:
MORELIA:
Tomas Boy
Seasons in management: 20 (10 years approx)
Liguillas: 7
Semifinals: 4
PUMAS
Guillermo Vazquez
Seasons: 2
Games managed: 40
Liguillas: 2
Semifinals: 2
Mexican League Format Sees Radical Change
Starting from the Apertura 2011, Mexican football will scrap the three group regular season system in which the top two teams in each group and next two overall finishers qualify for the playoffs.
In its place will be a general table from which the top eight teams will qualify for the next round.
In the final stages, the Liguilla knockout competition is no longer. Instead, the eight teams will be split into two mini-leagues. Each club will play the other teams in their four-team group twice, once at home and once away against each opponent.
After each team has played six games in the round robin competition, the top teams out of each sector would then qualify for the grand final. It is a somewhat similar system to that which FIFA operates in the World Cup.
The changes mean more teams will be involved deeper into the season. The new format will also increase the total number of postseason games (from 14 to 26). TV revenues, threatened by Carlos Slim's highly publicized battle with Televisa, will be given a welcome boost.
"These changes have been made with the objective of creating a more exciting league," Decio de Maria, General Secretary of the Mexican Football Federation, told the press. "We will continue evaluating more changes that can nourish our football."
This playoff format was previously used in Mexico five times--during the postseasons of 1977, 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1989.
In its place will be a general table from which the top eight teams will qualify for the next round.
In the final stages, the Liguilla knockout competition is no longer. Instead, the eight teams will be split into two mini-leagues. Each club will play the other teams in their four-team group twice, once at home and once away against each opponent.
After each team has played six games in the round robin competition, the top teams out of each sector would then qualify for the grand final. It is a somewhat similar system to that which FIFA operates in the World Cup.
The changes mean more teams will be involved deeper into the season. The new format will also increase the total number of postseason games (from 14 to 26). TV revenues, threatened by Carlos Slim's highly publicized battle with Televisa, will be given a welcome boost.
"These changes have been made with the objective of creating a more exciting league," Decio de Maria, General Secretary of the Mexican Football Federation, told the press. "We will continue evaluating more changes that can nourish our football."
This playoff format was previously used in Mexico five times--during the postseasons of 1977, 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1989.
Pumas Vs. Chivas: Two 'Grandes' Lock Horns
On Thursday and Sunday two of Mexico’s best supported teams, Pumas UNAM and Guadalajara Chivas, go head to head in an intriguing contest between two youth-based sides with a rivalry that has often bubbled to the surface in the past.
Pumas go into the game as favorites having finished second in the general table and overcoming champions Monterrey in the last round despite losing the away leg 3-1.
Chivas just about scraped into the playoffs in eighth position. However, after beating the super-leader, Tigres, in the quarter-finals confidence should be high for the club with by far the youngest squad in the league. Chivas certainly have nothing to lose.
Both teams rely heavily on players from their ‘cantera’ (literally ‘quarry’) or youth system.
Almost all Chivas’ players rose through the ranks of the club while Pumas field plenty of homegrown talent themselves. Perhaps Pumas have the advantage of experienced players like Juan Francisco Palencia, Martin Bravo and others that could keep calm heads if things start to get heated. Certainly Chivas looked shaky in the first 15 minutes against Tigres when an experienced, controlling midfielder to calm things looked like the order of the day.
Chivas players Jonny Magallon and the much talked about youngster Antonio Gallardo are set to miss out due to injury but may be back for Sunday’s game.
Chivas boss Jose Luis Real is urging his team to get three goals in the home leg as they did twice in the knockout rounds of the Copa Libertadores last year and did against Tigres last week.
"There is no doubt that the signs are there and it makes us think we have what it takes to become champions," said Real in a pre-game press conference.
It might well be wishful thinking. Pumas have looked omnipotent all season and tossed aside Monterrey, who many believe are by far the best team in Mexico, with a fair amount of ease despite needing to win by two clear goals at home.
The games are likely to be tight and a tactical battle from the coaches could ensue. Both teams play a pressing game with tight marking while defending and like to get the ball to the wings for fast counter-attacks when they have the ball.
Pumas haven’t won away at Chivas in many years. The two teams drew 1-1 in the Ciudad Universitaria earlier in the season.
The Rivalry
Today the rivalry is between which has the better youth system. Chivas Sporting Director Rafael Ortega this week challenged Pumas to play strikers from their youth team and leave the likes of Martin Bravo, Dante Lopez, Juan Carlos Cacho and Juan Francisco Palencia, none of which came through the Pumas youth system, on the bench.
"One test is that we are purely Mexicans," said Ortega in a press conference when asked about the different youth systems. "If they are so sure about themselves then they should play with lots of Mexicans. If they have this (amazing) youth system, why do they need foreigners?"
The rivalry between the two teams first came to the fore in 2003 when Chivas beat Pumas 2-0 and Chivas owner Jorge Vergara published an advert reading "A nice little cat appeared before us" in the newspapers the next day. In Mexico, Pumas and Tigres are often referred to as ‘gatitos’ (little cats or pussy cats) by opposing teams.
The next season Pumas beat Chivas 3-0 and Pumas’ Brazilian player Ailton Da Silva paraded a T-shirt reading "Gatitos ni madres." The slang loosely means in English: "Pussy cats? What pussy cats?"
Then in 2004 Pumas beat Chivas in the final on penalties and Da Silva had another shirt ready for the occasion, this one reading: "Gatitos campeon a la Ver…Ga…Ra."
One of Mexico’s biggest rock bands, and hardcore Pumas fans, Molotov added to the rivalry with their song "Me Vale Vergara." Verga, in Mexican Spanish, is a informal way of saying male genitalia, hence the play on words from both Da Silva and Molotov.
"Me vale Vergara el Guadalajara," goes the chorus of the Molotov song (which can be heard on YouTube), which very roughly translates as "Guadalajara (Chivas) ain’t worth sh*t."
Apart from that episode the teams have reasonable respect for each other. Pumas are the football branch of the traditionally left wing UNAM (university) while Chivas are known as the "people’s club."
The two share a fierce rivalry with Club America.
Thursday, May 12: Chivas v. Pumas, 7 pm local time, 8 pm Eastern
Sunday, May 15: Pumas v. Chivas, 12 pm local time, 1 pm Eastern
Pumas go into the game as favorites having finished second in the general table and overcoming champions Monterrey in the last round despite losing the away leg 3-1.
Chivas just about scraped into the playoffs in eighth position. However, after beating the super-leader, Tigres, in the quarter-finals confidence should be high for the club with by far the youngest squad in the league. Chivas certainly have nothing to lose.
Both teams rely heavily on players from their ‘cantera’ (literally ‘quarry’) or youth system.
Almost all Chivas’ players rose through the ranks of the club while Pumas field plenty of homegrown talent themselves. Perhaps Pumas have the advantage of experienced players like Juan Francisco Palencia, Martin Bravo and others that could keep calm heads if things start to get heated. Certainly Chivas looked shaky in the first 15 minutes against Tigres when an experienced, controlling midfielder to calm things looked like the order of the day.
Chivas players Jonny Magallon and the much talked about youngster Antonio Gallardo are set to miss out due to injury but may be back for Sunday’s game.
Chivas boss Jose Luis Real is urging his team to get three goals in the home leg as they did twice in the knockout rounds of the Copa Libertadores last year and did against Tigres last week.
"There is no doubt that the signs are there and it makes us think we have what it takes to become champions," said Real in a pre-game press conference.
It might well be wishful thinking. Pumas have looked omnipotent all season and tossed aside Monterrey, who many believe are by far the best team in Mexico, with a fair amount of ease despite needing to win by two clear goals at home.
The games are likely to be tight and a tactical battle from the coaches could ensue. Both teams play a pressing game with tight marking while defending and like to get the ball to the wings for fast counter-attacks when they have the ball.
Pumas haven’t won away at Chivas in many years. The two teams drew 1-1 in the Ciudad Universitaria earlier in the season.
The Rivalry
Today the rivalry is between which has the better youth system. Chivas Sporting Director Rafael Ortega this week challenged Pumas to play strikers from their youth team and leave the likes of Martin Bravo, Dante Lopez, Juan Carlos Cacho and Juan Francisco Palencia, none of which came through the Pumas youth system, on the bench.
"One test is that we are purely Mexicans," said Ortega in a press conference when asked about the different youth systems. "If they are so sure about themselves then they should play with lots of Mexicans. If they have this (amazing) youth system, why do they need foreigners?"
The rivalry between the two teams first came to the fore in 2003 when Chivas beat Pumas 2-0 and Chivas owner Jorge Vergara published an advert reading "A nice little cat appeared before us" in the newspapers the next day. In Mexico, Pumas and Tigres are often referred to as ‘gatitos’ (little cats or pussy cats) by opposing teams.
The next season Pumas beat Chivas 3-0 and Pumas’ Brazilian player Ailton Da Silva paraded a T-shirt reading "Gatitos ni madres." The slang loosely means in English: "Pussy cats? What pussy cats?"
Then in 2004 Pumas beat Chivas in the final on penalties and Da Silva had another shirt ready for the occasion, this one reading: "Gatitos campeon a la Ver…Ga…Ra."
One of Mexico’s biggest rock bands, and hardcore Pumas fans, Molotov added to the rivalry with their song "Me Vale Vergara." Verga, in Mexican Spanish, is a informal way of saying male genitalia, hence the play on words from both Da Silva and Molotov.
"Me vale Vergara el Guadalajara," goes the chorus of the Molotov song (which can be heard on YouTube), which very roughly translates as "Guadalajara (Chivas) ain’t worth sh*t."
Apart from that episode the teams have reasonable respect for each other. Pumas are the football branch of the traditionally left wing UNAM (university) while Chivas are known as the "people’s club."
The two share a fierce rivalry with Club America.
Thursday, May 12: Chivas v. Pumas, 7 pm local time, 8 pm Eastern
Sunday, May 15: Pumas v. Chivas, 12 pm local time, 1 pm Eastern
América Vs. Santos, 2011 Copa Libertadores: Match Report, America Out With Head Held High
Club America was unable to get the ball past the wall that was Santos goalkeeper Rafael and go out of the Copa Libertadores despite controlling much of the game in Queretaro. The final score was 0-0 on the night and 1-0 to Santos overall.
The result continues the traditional dominance of Brazilian teams against sides from the Mexican league but that stat says very little about tonight's encounter.
America started on the front foot and kept Santos pinned back in their own half for most the game. Wonderkid Neymar was kept quiet and America played with an intensity that Santos couldn't keep up with in the middle of the park despite America's heavy schedule in recent weeks and last Sunday's vital game against rivals Pumas that was played at midday under the pounding sun.
For much of the game it seemed it was only a matter of time before America would score but Santos goalkeeper Rafael pulled off save after save to keep the Brazilian team ahead in the global aggregate score.
Top goalscorer in the Mexican league, Angel Reyna looked sharp and full of confidence when he came on early in the second half and had a string of shots saved by the inspired Rafael.
Santos did hit the post from a freekick early in the second half and had another chance soon after but was content to sit back. Bruno came on for Ze Eduardo before 70 minutes were up to shore up the midfield although it only invited America to push more men forward.
America had seven shots on goal compared to Santos' three and eight corners compared to Santos' one.
The bottom line remains the same old story: another Mexican team fell before one of Brazil's giants.
The game was played in an electric atmosphere in Queretaro. The tie was moved from America's usual home ground, the Estadio Azteca, because of preparations for an upcoming U2 concert. Nevertheless, Americanistas turned out in force and La Corregidora stadium was almost full. There was some crowd trouble during the first 45 minutes.
Santos will play Cruziero and Once Caldas in the Quarterfinals and remain one of the favourites to raise the Copa Libertadores.
America will now concentrate on the Mexican league playoffs.
The result continues the traditional dominance of Brazilian teams against sides from the Mexican league but that stat says very little about tonight's encounter.
America started on the front foot and kept Santos pinned back in their own half for most the game. Wonderkid Neymar was kept quiet and America played with an intensity that Santos couldn't keep up with in the middle of the park despite America's heavy schedule in recent weeks and last Sunday's vital game against rivals Pumas that was played at midday under the pounding sun.
For much of the game it seemed it was only a matter of time before America would score but Santos goalkeeper Rafael pulled off save after save to keep the Brazilian team ahead in the global aggregate score.
Top goalscorer in the Mexican league, Angel Reyna looked sharp and full of confidence when he came on early in the second half and had a string of shots saved by the inspired Rafael.
Santos did hit the post from a freekick early in the second half and had another chance soon after but was content to sit back. Bruno came on for Ze Eduardo before 70 minutes were up to shore up the midfield although it only invited America to push more men forward.
America had seven shots on goal compared to Santos' three and eight corners compared to Santos' one.
The bottom line remains the same old story: another Mexican team fell before one of Brazil's giants.
The game was played in an electric atmosphere in Queretaro. The tie was moved from America's usual home ground, the Estadio Azteca, because of preparations for an upcoming U2 concert. Nevertheless, Americanistas turned out in force and La Corregidora stadium was almost full. There was some crowd trouble during the first 45 minutes.
Santos will play Cruziero and Once Caldas in the Quarterfinals and remain one of the favourites to raise the Copa Libertadores.
America will now concentrate on the Mexican league playoffs.
Mexican League Table 2010-2011: Cruz Azul Champions!
The Mexican football season is split into two halves, the Apertura (Opening) and the Clausura (Closing), as most regular followers would be well aware. The play-off system is also employed to decide the champions of both seasons.
But what would the league table look like if it was spread over the whole year like the English Premier League is?
Cruz Azul would have already won the championship with four points more than Pumas with only one game remaining. Then come Monterrey neighbours Tigres and Monterrey in the "Champions League" places. America are perhaps surprisingly in fifth and Chivas sit in eighth. Going down would be Necaxa, Estudiantes and there would be a last day survival battle between Puebla, Atlas, Jaguares and Queretaro.
Perhaps more than anything the league shows the unpredictability of Mexican football and the huge dips and highs that occur over just a year. The best example: Cruz Azul, the "champions," might not even make the play-offs during this Clausura if they don´t win at the weekend.
League table:
Star-divide
Team Points
Cruz Azul 64
Pumas 60
Tigres 56
Monterrey 55
America 50
Santos 50
Morelia 49
Chivas 47
San Luis 46
Toluca 43
Pachuca 42
Atlante 40
Puebla 37
Atlas 36
Jaguares 36
Queretaro 35
Estudiantes 32
Necaxa 30
Top scorers:
Christian Benitez: 17
Humberto Suazo: 15
Emanuel Villa: 14
Angel Reyna: 13
Matias Vuoso: 13
Hector Mancilla: 13
Mauro Cejas: 13
Wilmar Aguirre: 13
Christian Gimenez: 13
Marco Fabian: 12
But what would the league table look like if it was spread over the whole year like the English Premier League is?
Cruz Azul would have already won the championship with four points more than Pumas with only one game remaining. Then come Monterrey neighbours Tigres and Monterrey in the "Champions League" places. America are perhaps surprisingly in fifth and Chivas sit in eighth. Going down would be Necaxa, Estudiantes and there would be a last day survival battle between Puebla, Atlas, Jaguares and Queretaro.
Perhaps more than anything the league shows the unpredictability of Mexican football and the huge dips and highs that occur over just a year. The best example: Cruz Azul, the "champions," might not even make the play-offs during this Clausura if they don´t win at the weekend.
League table:
Star-divide
Team Points
Cruz Azul 64
Pumas 60
Tigres 56
Monterrey 55
America 50
Santos 50
Morelia 49
Chivas 47
San Luis 46
Toluca 43
Pachuca 42
Atlante 40
Puebla 37
Atlas 36
Jaguares 36
Queretaro 35
Estudiantes 32
Necaxa 30
Top scorers:
Christian Benitez: 17
Humberto Suazo: 15
Emanuel Villa: 14
Angel Reyna: 13
Matias Vuoso: 13
Hector Mancilla: 13
Mauro Cejas: 13
Wilmar Aguirre: 13
Christian Gimenez: 13
Marco Fabian: 12
Mexican Playoffs: Who Needs What?
This Easter weekend many Mexicans are celebrating Jesus and his miraculous resurrection after being hung on a cross. It may seem slightly more menial but it`s also crunch time for making the Mexican soccer playoffs. Some teams will be praying for a Christ-like miracle, while others seem to have their fate already cast in stone. Here`s what each team needs to qualify:
GROUP 1
U.A.N.L. (Tigres) = Already qualified and looking good on 29 points at the top of Group 1. All that is left is jockeying for final position to see who they play. Points: 29
Guadalajara Chivas = Three points from the next two games will see Mexico´s most popular team get to the play-offs. However, on Saturday they play away at Cruz Azul and the week after is Monterrey at home. Tricky games. Points: 24
Monterrey = The current champions need two wins to guarantee second spot in Group 1. In reality, one win in those two games should be sufficient for a team currently hampered by injuries. Games - Puebla (h), Chivas (a) Points: 22
Santos = Mathematically it is possible that Santos can qualify but they need both Monterrey and Chivas to lose this weekend and then draw the game the weekend after. Some hard praying required. Games - San Luis (h), Estudiantes (a) Points: 20
Estudiantes Tecos, Necaxa = A full blown miracle of biblical proportions is their only hope as both can´t mathematically make the play-offs. Necaxa are going down too.
GROUP 2
(THE group to really keep your eyes on)
Atlante = Three points from two games required. Already have to get into play-off mode, both games against rivals in their group: America (a), Toluca (h) Points: 23
America = Four points should be enough although the entertaining team need two wins to 100 percent guarantee passage to the play-offs. Games: Atlante (h), Pumas (a) Points: 22
Toluca = Have to win this weekend and see the lie of the table. Six points from 2 games should be enough. Potential last day showdown with Atlante for a play-off place. Games: Estudiantes (h), Atlante (a) Points: 20
Atlas = Six points is a necessity, preferably with a few goals scored. If they can do that and other results fall the right way it is very possible they will qualify. Games: Santos (h), Tigres (a) Points: 20
San Luis, Pachuca = Time to start planning for next year.
GROUP 3
Pumas = Overall leaders and surprise package of the season. Already through. Points: 32
Morelia = After getting battered 5-0 by Atlas at the start of the campaign, few thought Morelia would make the play-offs with two games to go. Now they are real contenders for the title. Points: 28
Cruz Azul = Three points from their last two games will see them grab one of the best third-place spots. Lose on Saturday against Chivas and it could be a nervy last game against San Luis (a). Points: 24
Puebla, Queretaro, Chiapas = All also in need of divine intervention if they are to qualify for the playoffs.
GROUP 1
U.A.N.L. (Tigres) = Already qualified and looking good on 29 points at the top of Group 1. All that is left is jockeying for final position to see who they play. Points: 29
Guadalajara Chivas = Three points from the next two games will see Mexico´s most popular team get to the play-offs. However, on Saturday they play away at Cruz Azul and the week after is Monterrey at home. Tricky games. Points: 24
Monterrey = The current champions need two wins to guarantee second spot in Group 1. In reality, one win in those two games should be sufficient for a team currently hampered by injuries. Games - Puebla (h), Chivas (a) Points: 22
Santos = Mathematically it is possible that Santos can qualify but they need both Monterrey and Chivas to lose this weekend and then draw the game the weekend after. Some hard praying required. Games - San Luis (h), Estudiantes (a) Points: 20
Estudiantes Tecos, Necaxa = A full blown miracle of biblical proportions is their only hope as both can´t mathematically make the play-offs. Necaxa are going down too.
GROUP 2
(THE group to really keep your eyes on)
Atlante = Three points from two games required. Already have to get into play-off mode, both games against rivals in their group: America (a), Toluca (h) Points: 23
America = Four points should be enough although the entertaining team need two wins to 100 percent guarantee passage to the play-offs. Games: Atlante (h), Pumas (a) Points: 22
Toluca = Have to win this weekend and see the lie of the table. Six points from 2 games should be enough. Potential last day showdown with Atlante for a play-off place. Games: Estudiantes (h), Atlante (a) Points: 20
Atlas = Six points is a necessity, preferably with a few goals scored. If they can do that and other results fall the right way it is very possible they will qualify. Games: Santos (h), Tigres (a) Points: 20
San Luis, Pachuca = Time to start planning for next year.
GROUP 3
Pumas = Overall leaders and surprise package of the season. Already through. Points: 32
Morelia = After getting battered 5-0 by Atlas at the start of the campaign, few thought Morelia would make the play-offs with two games to go. Now they are real contenders for the title. Points: 28
Cruz Azul = Three points from their last two games will see them grab one of the best third-place spots. Lose on Saturday against Chivas and it could be a nervy last game against San Luis (a). Points: 24
Puebla, Queretaro, Chiapas = All also in need of divine intervention if they are to qualify for the playoffs.
Atlas Reach Unhappy Anniversary
It`s a day of mixed emotions for Atlas fans. Today, April 22, marks 60 years since they beat city rivals Chivas 1-0 in the Clasico Tapatio to become champions for the first time.
Many thought the Atlas team would go on to dominate the Mexican game due to the strength of the ´51 squad. Financial problems stopped that happening and, remarkably, the 1951 title remains the club´s only one.
Some of the great Mexican players have since passed through the famed Atlas youth system, giving the club a respectable identity but no silverware. The short-sightedness of clubs directors has meant that Atlas have not even regulary challenged for honours, although for a brief spell in the late 90s the team was arguably the best in the league under Ricardo La Volpe.
The biggest supporter group (porra) is know as the 51s.
The team has an outside chance of making the play-offs.
A poster available in many Guadalajara markets, of the 1951 dressed as cavemen and wielding clubs.
For gloating Chivas fans April 22 is a chance to rub in the lack of titles the rojinegros have won.
Many thought the Atlas team would go on to dominate the Mexican game due to the strength of the ´51 squad. Financial problems stopped that happening and, remarkably, the 1951 title remains the club´s only one.
Some of the great Mexican players have since passed through the famed Atlas youth system, giving the club a respectable identity but no silverware. The short-sightedness of clubs directors has meant that Atlas have not even regulary challenged for honours, although for a brief spell in the late 90s the team was arguably the best in the league under Ricardo La Volpe.
The biggest supporter group (porra) is know as the 51s.
The team has an outside chance of making the play-offs.
A poster available in many Guadalajara markets, of the 1951 dressed as cavemen and wielding clubs.
For gloating Chivas fans April 22 is a chance to rub in the lack of titles the rojinegros have won.
Cruz Azul Vs. Chivas Guadalajara: Play-offs Ticket Up For Grabs
The Estadio Azul will be packed to the rafters for the Cruz Azul vs. Chivas Guadalajara duel on Saturday evening that not only sees two of Mexico's four "grandes" go head-to-head but also scrapping for their places in the play-offs.
Both teams need three points to guarantee their ticket into what the Mexican press label the "big party." Cruz Azul sit in third place in Group 3 with 24 points. Chivas are second in Group 2, also on 24 points. The winner of the game can relax for the final round of fixtures next weekend. For the losers, fans' long fingernails are in danger of being scythed down as a final day nervefest ensues to book their play-off place.
Indeed, this contest already smells of a play-off and is being built up as the game of the weekend.
Chivas Guadalajara haven't won against Cruz Azul in six games and the "Celestes" (Cruz Azul) home form has been the main why they are still in play-off contention. The Mexico City team go into the game as slight favorites.
As a caveat though, Cruz Azul have been inconsistent all season. Their last two results tell the wider story of their season. On April 13, Cruz Azul thrashed champions Monterrey 3-0 at home but three days later lost on the road 2-0 to lowly Puebla. Whether Gerardo Torrado and Hugo Droguett are fit to play could be an important factor.
For Chivas, a run of four consecutive victories was cut short last weekend by a missed penalty and a stunning last minute winner by Santos.
A victory for Chivas would show that the team means business and should be considered contenders for the title.
Center-back Jonny Magallon is likely to miss the game for Chivas.
In case of defeat next week's games could be vital for these two teams and they don`t look easy:
San Luis vs. Cruz Azul
Chivas vs. Monterrey
Players to watch: Chaco Gimenez (Cruz Azul) - destroyed Monterrey and is capable of doing the same at any moment.
Erick "Cubo" Torres (Chivas) - vital in Chivas' four wins on the trot and the rojiblancos will be looking to him for goals on Saturday.
Cruz Azul vs. Guadalajara Chivas kicks off Saturday at 5 pm in Mexico (6 pm U.S. eastern time).
Both teams need three points to guarantee their ticket into what the Mexican press label the "big party." Cruz Azul sit in third place in Group 3 with 24 points. Chivas are second in Group 2, also on 24 points. The winner of the game can relax for the final round of fixtures next weekend. For the losers, fans' long fingernails are in danger of being scythed down as a final day nervefest ensues to book their play-off place.
Indeed, this contest already smells of a play-off and is being built up as the game of the weekend.
Chivas Guadalajara haven't won against Cruz Azul in six games and the "Celestes" (Cruz Azul) home form has been the main why they are still in play-off contention. The Mexico City team go into the game as slight favorites.
As a caveat though, Cruz Azul have been inconsistent all season. Their last two results tell the wider story of their season. On April 13, Cruz Azul thrashed champions Monterrey 3-0 at home but three days later lost on the road 2-0 to lowly Puebla. Whether Gerardo Torrado and Hugo Droguett are fit to play could be an important factor.
For Chivas, a run of four consecutive victories was cut short last weekend by a missed penalty and a stunning last minute winner by Santos.
A victory for Chivas would show that the team means business and should be considered contenders for the title.
Center-back Jonny Magallon is likely to miss the game for Chivas.
In case of defeat next week's games could be vital for these two teams and they don`t look easy:
San Luis vs. Cruz Azul
Chivas vs. Monterrey
Players to watch: Chaco Gimenez (Cruz Azul) - destroyed Monterrey and is capable of doing the same at any moment.
Erick "Cubo" Torres (Chivas) - vital in Chivas' four wins on the trot and the rojiblancos will be looking to him for goals on Saturday.
Cruz Azul vs. Guadalajara Chivas kicks off Saturday at 5 pm in Mexico (6 pm U.S. eastern time).
Chivas Vs. America 2011, Super Clasico: 3-0, The Kid Torres Steals The Show
The clasicos de clasicos in Mexico, Guadalajara Chivas against Club America, went the way of the home team Chivas in the first ever meeting of the two teams in the Estadio Omnilife.
Erick "Cubo" Torres, just 18-years-old, became the first clasico debutant since 1996 to score a goal in the game that is the most hyped in Mexico. The movement and goals that he has provided since coming into the team in January has helped Chivas fill the hole that Javier `Chicharito` left when he signed for Manchester United. Once again, Chivas have a genuine goal-scorer and another real talent.
In the first half, America had most possession but Chivas always looked dangerous on the break. Both teams had chances but the difference between was that Torres put one of his chances in the back of the net on 28 minutes.
A goal down, America`s attack-minded coach Carlos Reinoso threw caution to the wind. Striker Matias Vuoso came on before the second half had started. Then Dani Marquez was added to the attacking mix in the second half with the score still 1-0.
Chivas are naturally a counter-attacking team and although it looked as if America would get an equalizer, the Guadalajara team became increasing confident when they did have the ball.
The all out attacking play from America played into Chivas`hands when Marco Fabian scored for Chivas on 72 minutes. What a goal it was! After a great layoff by the young Torres, Fabian blasted the ball in the top right-hand corner of Guillermo Ochoa`s goal and into the net. No arguments at all.
Down and out, America players started lost confidence and, it seemed, the will to keep playing. Amid the cries of "Ole" every time a Chivas player passed the ball, the Guadalajara team still had time to score another courtesy of a header from Fabian.
America could have no arguments. Chivas were more clinical in front of goal and thanks to Torres` clinical finish in the first half, grew in confidence as the game progressed.
At the end of the game a mariachi group took to the pitch to play songs such as "Guadalajara, Guadalajara." The party is only just getting going in Guadalajara. They`ll be some sore heads in workplaces all over the city tomorrow morning. America`s fans wish they`d stayed at home.
Erick "Cubo" Torres, just 18-years-old, became the first clasico debutant since 1996 to score a goal in the game that is the most hyped in Mexico. The movement and goals that he has provided since coming into the team in January has helped Chivas fill the hole that Javier `Chicharito` left when he signed for Manchester United. Once again, Chivas have a genuine goal-scorer and another real talent.
In the first half, America had most possession but Chivas always looked dangerous on the break. Both teams had chances but the difference between was that Torres put one of his chances in the back of the net on 28 minutes.
A goal down, America`s attack-minded coach Carlos Reinoso threw caution to the wind. Striker Matias Vuoso came on before the second half had started. Then Dani Marquez was added to the attacking mix in the second half with the score still 1-0.
Chivas are naturally a counter-attacking team and although it looked as if America would get an equalizer, the Guadalajara team became increasing confident when they did have the ball.
The all out attacking play from America played into Chivas`hands when Marco Fabian scored for Chivas on 72 minutes. What a goal it was! After a great layoff by the young Torres, Fabian blasted the ball in the top right-hand corner of Guillermo Ochoa`s goal and into the net. No arguments at all.
Down and out, America players started lost confidence and, it seemed, the will to keep playing. Amid the cries of "Ole" every time a Chivas player passed the ball, the Guadalajara team still had time to score another courtesy of a header from Fabian.
America could have no arguments. Chivas were more clinical in front of goal and thanks to Torres` clinical finish in the first half, grew in confidence as the game progressed.
At the end of the game a mariachi group took to the pitch to play songs such as "Guadalajara, Guadalajara." The party is only just getting going in Guadalajara. They`ll be some sore heads in workplaces all over the city tomorrow morning. America`s fans wish they`d stayed at home.
Chivas Vs. America: What's All The Fuss About?
Guadalajara Chivas against Club America is widely known as Mexico`s clasico and the bets are already being placed between friends, neighbors, families and work colleagues. The country is ready to shut down Sunday at 6 p.m. as all eyes turn to the Estadio Omnilife for the battle of Mexico`s two most popular teams. But why all the fuss?
When businessman and media owner Emilio Azcarraga bought America in 1959 it is said he stated: "I don't know anything about football but people have told me that the best players are Brazilians and Argentinians. On that base I'll construct America."
That seems to be the real starting point. The line was drawn in the sand. Chivas held firm as America tried to buy quality players to knock them off their throne during the Campeonismo era in which Chivas dominated the Mexican game like no team had before or have since. By 1966, America had won their first league title and carried on during the 1970s and 80s to confirm themselves as a giant of the Mexican game.
What are the other reasons that the game stirs such emotion?
What follows is a list of reasons I can think of off the top of my head.
1) Chivas are the people`s club of the honest Mexican lower classes / America the glamour club of either the rich or the working class that want to dream.
2) America are proud of their foreign imports that have raised the standard of Mexican football but Chivas stick to their dignified 100% Mexican policy which, in essence, pits two diametrically opposed football philosophies in one game.
3) The game sees the most successful provincial team against the Mexico City giant. Both have fans all over the country. Nobody is neutral. They is a lot of antagonism towards people, teams and everything else from Mexico City from people from other states. Mexico City people are known derrogatively as "chilangos." People from Mexico City talk of the "provincia" when they mention any other place in the country as if it doesn`t matter.
4) America and Chivas are the most successful teams in Mexico on 10 and 11 titles respectively. (Although America claim 14, another source of problems)
5) Televisa, who own America, really needed a national clasico to garner interest all over the country. They suceeded. Chivas were the team they picked off the back of the campeonisimo.
When businessman and media owner Emilio Azcarraga bought America in 1959 it is said he stated: "I don't know anything about football but people have told me that the best players are Brazilians and Argentinians. On that base I'll construct America."
That seems to be the real starting point. The line was drawn in the sand. Chivas held firm as America tried to buy quality players to knock them off their throne during the Campeonismo era in which Chivas dominated the Mexican game like no team had before or have since. By 1966, America had won their first league title and carried on during the 1970s and 80s to confirm themselves as a giant of the Mexican game.
What are the other reasons that the game stirs such emotion?
What follows is a list of reasons I can think of off the top of my head.
1) Chivas are the people`s club of the honest Mexican lower classes / America the glamour club of either the rich or the working class that want to dream.
2) America are proud of their foreign imports that have raised the standard of Mexican football but Chivas stick to their dignified 100% Mexican policy which, in essence, pits two diametrically opposed football philosophies in one game.
3) The game sees the most successful provincial team against the Mexico City giant. Both have fans all over the country. Nobody is neutral. They is a lot of antagonism towards people, teams and everything else from Mexico City from people from other states. Mexico City people are known derrogatively as "chilangos." People from Mexico City talk of the "provincia" when they mention any other place in the country as if it doesn`t matter.
4) America and Chivas are the most successful teams in Mexico on 10 and 11 titles respectively. (Although America claim 14, another source of problems)
5) Televisa, who own America, really needed a national clasico to garner interest all over the country. They suceeded. Chivas were the team they picked off the back of the campeonisimo.
Mexico Vs. Venezuela: Press Slams Ochoa
After last night´s 1-1 draw between Mexico and Venezuela in San Diego there was no doubting who the villain of the piece was according to the Mexican press: Guillermo ´Memo´Ochoa.
"What happened to that ´keeper that looked set to become a legend of the Tri?" reads the byline on the front page of Record. "Last night Ochoa again failed and his place in the national team is questionable. The question is if one day he will return."
It´s not the kind of statement you expect from a goalkeeper who was on the brink of a move to the Premier League in January and whose team-mate, Javier ´Chicharito´ Hernandez, was recommending to Sir Alex Ferguson as a replacement for Edwin van der Sar.
Perhaps it is all a little harsh on 25-year-old Ochoa who made his club debut in 2004. Always popular with both the fans and the marketing men, that now seems to be on the wane.
Ochoa is still a trending topic on Twitter today, with most Tweets slating the Guadalajara-born ´keeper.
Take a look at the video below and make your own mind up. My opinion, for what it is worth, is that Ochoa wasn´t completely at blame for the goal but that the America player´s biggest problem is that other Mexican goalkeepers (Jesus Corona, Alfredo Talavera and Jonathan Orozco) have developed into extremely viable alternatives.
The players and national team boss Jose Manuel ´Chepo´de la Torre have said that the goal wasn´t the goalie´s fault and Chepo said the press have it in for Ochoa.
"What happened to that ´keeper that looked set to become a legend of the Tri?" reads the byline on the front page of Record. "Last night Ochoa again failed and his place in the national team is questionable. The question is if one day he will return."
It´s not the kind of statement you expect from a goalkeeper who was on the brink of a move to the Premier League in January and whose team-mate, Javier ´Chicharito´ Hernandez, was recommending to Sir Alex Ferguson as a replacement for Edwin van der Sar.
Perhaps it is all a little harsh on 25-year-old Ochoa who made his club debut in 2004. Always popular with both the fans and the marketing men, that now seems to be on the wane.
Ochoa is still a trending topic on Twitter today, with most Tweets slating the Guadalajara-born ´keeper.
Take a look at the video below and make your own mind up. My opinion, for what it is worth, is that Ochoa wasn´t completely at blame for the goal but that the America player´s biggest problem is that other Mexican goalkeepers (Jesus Corona, Alfredo Talavera and Jonathan Orozco) have developed into extremely viable alternatives.
The players and national team boss Jose Manuel ´Chepo´de la Torre have said that the goal wasn´t the goalie´s fault and Chepo said the press have it in for Ochoa.
Mexico Vs. Venezuela: 1-1, Plenty To Think About
Dominant for large swathes of the game against Venezuela in San Diego, Mexico failed to make their dominance count in the final scoreline as a limited Venezuela netted from a corner to snatch a draw.
After the euphoric press coverage following the 3-1 victory over Paraguay on Saturday, this was a firm crash back down to earth. Boos could be heard at the final whistle although it wasn’t quite that bad.
Pablo Barrera and Andres Guardado started on the wings and Jose Manuel "Chepo" de la Torre opted for Giovani Dos Santos instead of Sinha in the role behind Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez. Guillaermo Ochoa started in net under pressure for his place in the squad.
After a cagey first five minutes the game took shape with Mexico enjoying most the possession but Venezuela proving difficult to break down.
Mexico did have their chances though. Chicharito missed a chance he would usually tuck away although the assistant referees flag saved his blushes. Not long after, Chicharito lost his marker down the left and moved in on goal. From a tight angle the Manchester United player opted to try and bend the ball into the far corner. Instead, the ball ballooned over the bar. The better option was to pass the ball across goal for his unmarked team-mate.
Barrera was a live wire down the right but still needs to improve his decision making. Too many times he gets in excellent positions, through his own good work, only to spoil it by giving the ball away.
The teams went in at half-time at 0-0 but with Mexico the better team.
Chicharito, Guardado, Gerardo Torrado and Rafa Marquez all came off at halftime Coming on were Carlos Vela, Edgar Dueñas, Issrael Castro and Aldo de Nigris as Mexico stuck to the 4-4-1-1 that Chepo is famed for sticking to.
After the break the intensity of the game dropped but the physical de Nigris provided a different kind of threat. Just after coming on the Monterrey player was using his strength to get his head on the ball and almost socre. On 58 minutes, Dos Santos fed de Nigris with a looping cross. The big man managed to stay strong, evade the shirt tugging of the Venezuelan defender and to rise and nod the ball into the net. The Venezuelan goalkeeper was in no-man’s land but that shouldn’t take away from the fact de Nigris’ goal meant he and his brother became just the fourth siblings to net for Mexico. Aldo de Nigris’ brother died in 2009 making this goal all the more poignant for Aldo. He later dedicated the goal to his brother.
After the goal Mexico briefly threatened to score again but then became sloppy as substitutions became more frequent. Venezuela hit the bar from a direct free-kick and forced a fine save by Ochoa from a long distance shot. The warning sirens had already rung when in the 73rd minute Oswaldo Vizacarrondo was left free to nod in from a corner kick to level the scores. Poor defending. Ochoa will be left to take a large share of the blame after coming out for the ball and failing to get it, the number one rule for a goalkeeper.
Mexico were left to rue the mistake but should have put the game to bed well before the 73rd minute.
There were plenty of positives (Giovani, Barrera, de Nigris) but Chepo has no shortage of things to work on.
This was the last friendly game before the squad is named for the Copa de Oro.
After the euphoric press coverage following the 3-1 victory over Paraguay on Saturday, this was a firm crash back down to earth. Boos could be heard at the final whistle although it wasn’t quite that bad.
Pablo Barrera and Andres Guardado started on the wings and Jose Manuel "Chepo" de la Torre opted for Giovani Dos Santos instead of Sinha in the role behind Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez. Guillaermo Ochoa started in net under pressure for his place in the squad.
After a cagey first five minutes the game took shape with Mexico enjoying most the possession but Venezuela proving difficult to break down.
Mexico did have their chances though. Chicharito missed a chance he would usually tuck away although the assistant referees flag saved his blushes. Not long after, Chicharito lost his marker down the left and moved in on goal. From a tight angle the Manchester United player opted to try and bend the ball into the far corner. Instead, the ball ballooned over the bar. The better option was to pass the ball across goal for his unmarked team-mate.
Barrera was a live wire down the right but still needs to improve his decision making. Too many times he gets in excellent positions, through his own good work, only to spoil it by giving the ball away.
The teams went in at half-time at 0-0 but with Mexico the better team.
Chicharito, Guardado, Gerardo Torrado and Rafa Marquez all came off at halftime Coming on were Carlos Vela, Edgar Dueñas, Issrael Castro and Aldo de Nigris as Mexico stuck to the 4-4-1-1 that Chepo is famed for sticking to.
After the break the intensity of the game dropped but the physical de Nigris provided a different kind of threat. Just after coming on the Monterrey player was using his strength to get his head on the ball and almost socre. On 58 minutes, Dos Santos fed de Nigris with a looping cross. The big man managed to stay strong, evade the shirt tugging of the Venezuelan defender and to rise and nod the ball into the net. The Venezuelan goalkeeper was in no-man’s land but that shouldn’t take away from the fact de Nigris’ goal meant he and his brother became just the fourth siblings to net for Mexico. Aldo de Nigris’ brother died in 2009 making this goal all the more poignant for Aldo. He later dedicated the goal to his brother.
After the goal Mexico briefly threatened to score again but then became sloppy as substitutions became more frequent. Venezuela hit the bar from a direct free-kick and forced a fine save by Ochoa from a long distance shot. The warning sirens had already rung when in the 73rd minute Oswaldo Vizacarrondo was left free to nod in from a corner kick to level the scores. Poor defending. Ochoa will be left to take a large share of the blame after coming out for the ball and failing to get it, the number one rule for a goalkeeper.
Mexico were left to rue the mistake but should have put the game to bed well before the 73rd minute.
There were plenty of positives (Giovani, Barrera, de Nigris) but Chepo has no shortage of things to work on.
This was the last friendly game before the squad is named for the Copa de Oro.
Mexico Vs. Paraguay: 3-1, Mexico Destroy Paraguay With Chicharito The Star Of The Show
Mexico produced an excellent first half display against a lacklustre Paraguay side in Oakland, California with Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez again stealing the headlines.
Mexico played a 4-4-1-1 formation with Sinha sitting in the hole behind Hernandez. The only major surprise in the team selection was that Alfredo Talavera of Toluca made his debut in goal in favour of Guillermo Ochoa. Both Andres Guardado and Pablo Barrera also got the nod, relegating Carlos Vela and Giovani Dos Santos to the sidelines.
The formation worked well early doors with Mexico pressurising the Paraguay side into mistakes. Playing with the defensive minded Israel Castro and Gerrado Torrado in the centre of midfield gave Mexico a platform to unleash wingers Barrera and Guarado and left Sinha free to float.
The reward for a bright start came in the 7th minute when Barrera received the ball on the right wing. The West Ham United player whipped in an early cross. Hernandez stole a yard on his marker and headed the ball across the goalkeeper and into the net.
El Tri continued to press with the movement and attacking style reminiscent of Ricardo La Volpe's time as national boss. Paraguay, World Cup quarter finalists, didn't have an answer.
The width provided by Guardado and Barrera caused problems for Paraguay and Mexico took control of the game. It seemed only a matter of time before another goal came.
When it did come on 29 minutes it was in part down to a defensive error by Paraguay's Pumas centre back Dario Veron. Rafael Marquez, making his 100th appearance for Mexico, played the ball to Guardado inside the penalty box and when Veron failed to intercept it, Guardado found himself in the clear. 'The Little Prince' took his time to pick his spot and then calmly slotted the ball into the far corner with his left foot. It was an important moment for the Depor player who has played very little recently due to injuries.
Five minutes later and Mexico were three up. Torrado chipped the ball over the Paraguayan defense to send Ricardo Osorio (the one who made that dreadful error in the World Cup against Argentina) clear. Osorio brought it down, looked up and passed the ball along the ground to Hernandez, who duly beat the keeper from close range. The goal was an excellent example of the one-touch football new coach Jose Manuel 'Chepo' de la Torre seems to be demanding. The simplicity and speed was too much for the Paraguayan defense.
The second half was a disappointment with Mexico simply not as intense in pressurising the ball. Paraguay took the game to Mexico more and probably had the better of the half. The usual mass substitutions in friendly matches once again dulled the spectacle. For Mexico Giovani Dos Santos, Carlos Vela, Jorge Torres Nilo, Aldo de Nigrios and Paul Aguilar came on for Chicharito, Sinha, Guardado, Osorio and Barrera.
Paraguay managed a consolation goal in the 87th minute but by then the game was winding down.
Question marks remain about the long term viability of 34-year-old Sinha playing off Hernandez but with Dos Santos yet to find a level of consistency de la Torre has a problem. Nevertheless this was a top performance from Mexico.
There was no doubt who the star of the show was in Oakland. Manchester United striker Hernandez has now scored 14 goals in 22 international appearances for Mexico. In this game he was on for his first hat-trick as a professional footballer.
Chicharito fever is spreading fast.
Mexico played a 4-4-1-1 formation with Sinha sitting in the hole behind Hernandez. The only major surprise in the team selection was that Alfredo Talavera of Toluca made his debut in goal in favour of Guillermo Ochoa. Both Andres Guardado and Pablo Barrera also got the nod, relegating Carlos Vela and Giovani Dos Santos to the sidelines.
The formation worked well early doors with Mexico pressurising the Paraguay side into mistakes. Playing with the defensive minded Israel Castro and Gerrado Torrado in the centre of midfield gave Mexico a platform to unleash wingers Barrera and Guarado and left Sinha free to float.
The reward for a bright start came in the 7th minute when Barrera received the ball on the right wing. The West Ham United player whipped in an early cross. Hernandez stole a yard on his marker and headed the ball across the goalkeeper and into the net.
El Tri continued to press with the movement and attacking style reminiscent of Ricardo La Volpe's time as national boss. Paraguay, World Cup quarter finalists, didn't have an answer.
The width provided by Guardado and Barrera caused problems for Paraguay and Mexico took control of the game. It seemed only a matter of time before another goal came.
When it did come on 29 minutes it was in part down to a defensive error by Paraguay's Pumas centre back Dario Veron. Rafael Marquez, making his 100th appearance for Mexico, played the ball to Guardado inside the penalty box and when Veron failed to intercept it, Guardado found himself in the clear. 'The Little Prince' took his time to pick his spot and then calmly slotted the ball into the far corner with his left foot. It was an important moment for the Depor player who has played very little recently due to injuries.
Five minutes later and Mexico were three up. Torrado chipped the ball over the Paraguayan defense to send Ricardo Osorio (the one who made that dreadful error in the World Cup against Argentina) clear. Osorio brought it down, looked up and passed the ball along the ground to Hernandez, who duly beat the keeper from close range. The goal was an excellent example of the one-touch football new coach Jose Manuel 'Chepo' de la Torre seems to be demanding. The simplicity and speed was too much for the Paraguayan defense.
The second half was a disappointment with Mexico simply not as intense in pressurising the ball. Paraguay took the game to Mexico more and probably had the better of the half. The usual mass substitutions in friendly matches once again dulled the spectacle. For Mexico Giovani Dos Santos, Carlos Vela, Jorge Torres Nilo, Aldo de Nigrios and Paul Aguilar came on for Chicharito, Sinha, Guardado, Osorio and Barrera.
Paraguay managed a consolation goal in the 87th minute but by then the game was winding down.
Question marks remain about the long term viability of 34-year-old Sinha playing off Hernandez but with Dos Santos yet to find a level of consistency de la Torre has a problem. Nevertheless this was a top performance from Mexico.
There was no doubt who the star of the show was in Oakland. Manchester United striker Hernandez has now scored 14 goals in 22 international appearances for Mexico. In this game he was on for his first hat-trick as a professional footballer.
Chicharito fever is spreading fast.
Mexico Vs. Paraguay: Rafa, Take A Bow
The mess surrounding whether or not Rafael Marquez officially completes a century of appearances for Mexico against Paraguay seems oddly in line with the player's status in his homeland.
The completion of 100 caps at international level is usually preceded by massive press hype but Marquez's milestone has passed by with very few column inches dedicated to it.
One explanation is that there is a doubt whether a match Mexico played against a Hong Kong league XI should qualify as an official game or not. FIFA say not but the Mexican Football Federation say it does and will present Marquez with a commemorative trophy of his 100 games before the game against Paraguay.
The whole issue has overshadowed what should be a celebration of what the "Kaiser of Michoacan" has achieved both for the Mexican team and while playing abroad but there is another reason for the lack of talk time given over to Marquez' achievement.
Mexicans have never taken to 32-year-old Marquez in the same way as players like Hugo Sanchez, Javier Hernandez, Jorge Campos, Claudio Suarez and Cuauhtemoc Blanco despite his success.
"He's picked up a Spanish accent," was one of the (unfounded) complaints Mexicans had when the Atlas youth team product had spent years playing for Barcelona.
"He doesn't try hard for Mexico," is another, along with: "He gets booked and sent off on purpose for the national team to get suspended so he doesn't have to come back to Mexico to play."
All are untrue.
It's also possible he hasn't received the same level of adoration because he is a straight speaker and maybe says things that Mexicans don't like to hear.
"Mexico has to change its mentaily if it is to grow as a country," said Marquez before the World Cup 2010 game against Argentina. "There's always pessimism. Sometimes we don't have the credibility, we can't count on that advantage other countries have."
Of course, there has been no better Mexican player than Marquez over the last fifteen years and possibly even longer, depending on personal points of views. Four Spanish league titles and two Champions League winners medals speak for themselves. Hugo Sanchez won the Spanish league five times but never lifted the Champions League trophy (then the European Cup). Marquez has also played more World Cup games than any other Mexican.
A commanding presence for Atlas, Monaco and Barcelona and a crucial part of the national team since he made his debut in 1997, there has to be a case that Marquez is one of the two or three greatest Mexican players ever. Check the video below if you've forgotten the sheer class he exuded and to a lesser extent still exudes.
That is why, whether it is the 100th cap or not, Rafa deserves all the accolades he is receiving and probably a hell of a lot more.
The completion of 100 caps at international level is usually preceded by massive press hype but Marquez's milestone has passed by with very few column inches dedicated to it.
One explanation is that there is a doubt whether a match Mexico played against a Hong Kong league XI should qualify as an official game or not. FIFA say not but the Mexican Football Federation say it does and will present Marquez with a commemorative trophy of his 100 games before the game against Paraguay.
The whole issue has overshadowed what should be a celebration of what the "Kaiser of Michoacan" has achieved both for the Mexican team and while playing abroad but there is another reason for the lack of talk time given over to Marquez' achievement.
Mexicans have never taken to 32-year-old Marquez in the same way as players like Hugo Sanchez, Javier Hernandez, Jorge Campos, Claudio Suarez and Cuauhtemoc Blanco despite his success.
"He's picked up a Spanish accent," was one of the (unfounded) complaints Mexicans had when the Atlas youth team product had spent years playing for Barcelona.
"He doesn't try hard for Mexico," is another, along with: "He gets booked and sent off on purpose for the national team to get suspended so he doesn't have to come back to Mexico to play."
All are untrue.
It's also possible he hasn't received the same level of adoration because he is a straight speaker and maybe says things that Mexicans don't like to hear.
"Mexico has to change its mentaily if it is to grow as a country," said Marquez before the World Cup 2010 game against Argentina. "There's always pessimism. Sometimes we don't have the credibility, we can't count on that advantage other countries have."
Of course, there has been no better Mexican player than Marquez over the last fifteen years and possibly even longer, depending on personal points of views. Four Spanish league titles and two Champions League winners medals speak for themselves. Hugo Sanchez won the Spanish league five times but never lifted the Champions League trophy (then the European Cup). Marquez has also played more World Cup games than any other Mexican.
A commanding presence for Atlas, Monaco and Barcelona and a crucial part of the national team since he made his debut in 1997, there has to be a case that Marquez is one of the two or three greatest Mexican players ever. Check the video below if you've forgotten the sheer class he exuded and to a lesser extent still exudes.
That is why, whether it is the 100th cap or not, Rafa deserves all the accolades he is receiving and probably a hell of a lot more.
Clasico Tapatio Starts To Heat Up: Atlas Director Suggests Guadalajara Has More Fans Of His Team Than Chivas
Club Atlas Sporting Director Rafael Lebrija gently stoked the fire in the build up to the Clasico Tapatio against Guadalajara Chivas by suggesting that Atlas and Pumas have the best youth systems in the land and that in Guadalajara there are more Atlas than Chivas fans.
"The two most important youth systems in Mexico have always been Pumas and Atlas," Lebrija told the local press.
The words cut deeper because Lebrija used to work in the same position for Chivas until May 2010 when, rumour has it, he fell out with Chivas owner Jorge Vergara.
Added Lebrija: "In the last game in the Omnilife, Atlas fans could be heard supporting their team more. Who knows what’s going on with Chivas’ fans, one of the most popular clubs in Mexican football. But here, in Guadalajara, we know what it means to be an Atlas fan."
Star-divide
Of Saturday’s big game in the Estadio Jalisco, Lebrija didn’t hold back in predicting that Atlas will be the team dictating play.
"Atlas will boss it," said Lebrija. "They are playing better, but it’s only one game and the best mentally prepared team will win; I think it’ll be Atlas."
On the other side of town, Chivas winger Alberto "Venado" Medina has been telling the press how important the game is to him.
"It gives me great satisfaction to score a goal against Atlas," said Medina.
With five goals in clasicos against Atlas, many believe the speedy Medina will be key to Chivas’ chances in the game.
Last year Chivas’ Marco Fabian missed a penalty in the clasico and was later attacked, along with his father, by Atlas fans outside the stadium.
Fabian clearly wants to make amends this time around.
"I’m incredibly keen to play, to win and to show myself," said Fabian. "I think it’s an important game in which one person can raise their hand and be an important piece of the clasico."
"The two most important youth systems in Mexico have always been Pumas and Atlas," Lebrija told the local press.
The words cut deeper because Lebrija used to work in the same position for Chivas until May 2010 when, rumour has it, he fell out with Chivas owner Jorge Vergara.
Added Lebrija: "In the last game in the Omnilife, Atlas fans could be heard supporting their team more. Who knows what’s going on with Chivas’ fans, one of the most popular clubs in Mexican football. But here, in Guadalajara, we know what it means to be an Atlas fan."
Star-divide
Of Saturday’s big game in the Estadio Jalisco, Lebrija didn’t hold back in predicting that Atlas will be the team dictating play.
"Atlas will boss it," said Lebrija. "They are playing better, but it’s only one game and the best mentally prepared team will win; I think it’ll be Atlas."
On the other side of town, Chivas winger Alberto "Venado" Medina has been telling the press how important the game is to him.
"It gives me great satisfaction to score a goal against Atlas," said Medina.
With five goals in clasicos against Atlas, many believe the speedy Medina will be key to Chivas’ chances in the game.
Last year Chivas’ Marco Fabian missed a penalty in the clasico and was later attacked, along with his father, by Atlas fans outside the stadium.
Fabian clearly wants to make amends this time around.
"I’m incredibly keen to play, to win and to show myself," said Fabian. "I think it’s an important game in which one person can raise their hand and be an important piece of the clasico."
Club Atlas Vs. Guadalajara Chivas: El Clásico Tapatío Preview
The Clásico Tapatío could not come at a better time for Club Atlas and Guadalajara Chivas. Both are floundering in the Clausura 2011 and in need of a boost of confidence to help them climb out of the rut they find themselves in.
Chivas come into the game off the back of a dismal 0-0 draw against UANL Tigres. Off the pitch there were almost as many Tigres fans as those in the red-and-white shirts of Chivas, a sign that Chivas fans have been put off going to the stadium from high ticket prices and, more importantly, an average team that fails to excite. The kings of the draw, Chivas have only lost two out of the nine league games played this season but they’ve only won two as well.
Hope lies in the youth for Chivas with Erick Torres and Jorge Mora likely to be charged with getting the goals on Saturday. That would mean out of form "Bofo" Bautista and Omar Arellano will be on the bench even though they are probably the most talented players that Chivas have, at least on paper.
Atlas’ recent form hasn’t helped ticket sales. After three victories on the trot at the start of the campaign, only four points have followed since, culminating in their worst performance of the season against Puebla last Sunday.
Honduran Carlo Costly was brought into Atlas with a lot of hope riding on his shoulders but the tall striker has failed to live up to expectations. Not only has he not scored yet, Costly looks almost disorientated and clumsy and not the same player who has a reputation of always scoring against the Mexican national team.
Coupled with the drop in form of Atlas’ main playmaker Edgar Pacheco, it’s not been a pretty last few weeks for Atlas but a derby is perhaps the best game to turn that around. There should be no shortage of motivation.
A betting expert wouldn’t bet on this game. Of all the 33 Clasicos Tapatios that have been played since Mexico started short tournaments in 1996, Chivas have won eleven games, Atlas have won eleven and there have been eleven draws.
Thankfully, after the frankly embarrassingly low attendance at the last clasico in Chivas’ Estadio Omnilife, the game will take place in the confines of the Estadio Jalisco.
Ticket sales are said to be slow. Seats at the game went on sale last Monday (Feb 28) at a special "pre-sale" price that was set to end last Saturday. That deadline was extended to Tuesday and now until Friday. Come kick off though, the stadium is likely to be full and the atmosphere electric.
Speak to Chivas fans from Guadalajara and they will tell you this game means more to them than the national clasico against America. For Atlas, the empty trophy cabinet can almost be forgiven if the team beat their bitter enemies.
Let’s hope both teams provide some entertainment to give Guadalajara football something that has been lacking the last couple of years: something to cheer about.
Chivas come into the game off the back of a dismal 0-0 draw against UANL Tigres. Off the pitch there were almost as many Tigres fans as those in the red-and-white shirts of Chivas, a sign that Chivas fans have been put off going to the stadium from high ticket prices and, more importantly, an average team that fails to excite. The kings of the draw, Chivas have only lost two out of the nine league games played this season but they’ve only won two as well.
Hope lies in the youth for Chivas with Erick Torres and Jorge Mora likely to be charged with getting the goals on Saturday. That would mean out of form "Bofo" Bautista and Omar Arellano will be on the bench even though they are probably the most talented players that Chivas have, at least on paper.
Atlas’ recent form hasn’t helped ticket sales. After three victories on the trot at the start of the campaign, only four points have followed since, culminating in their worst performance of the season against Puebla last Sunday.
Honduran Carlo Costly was brought into Atlas with a lot of hope riding on his shoulders but the tall striker has failed to live up to expectations. Not only has he not scored yet, Costly looks almost disorientated and clumsy and not the same player who has a reputation of always scoring against the Mexican national team.
Coupled with the drop in form of Atlas’ main playmaker Edgar Pacheco, it’s not been a pretty last few weeks for Atlas but a derby is perhaps the best game to turn that around. There should be no shortage of motivation.
A betting expert wouldn’t bet on this game. Of all the 33 Clasicos Tapatios that have been played since Mexico started short tournaments in 1996, Chivas have won eleven games, Atlas have won eleven and there have been eleven draws.
Thankfully, after the frankly embarrassingly low attendance at the last clasico in Chivas’ Estadio Omnilife, the game will take place in the confines of the Estadio Jalisco.
Ticket sales are said to be slow. Seats at the game went on sale last Monday (Feb 28) at a special "pre-sale" price that was set to end last Saturday. That deadline was extended to Tuesday and now until Friday. Come kick off though, the stadium is likely to be full and the atmosphere electric.
Speak to Chivas fans from Guadalajara and they will tell you this game means more to them than the national clasico against America. For Atlas, the empty trophy cabinet can almost be forgiven if the team beat their bitter enemies.
Let’s hope both teams provide some entertainment to give Guadalajara football something that has been lacking the last couple of years: something to cheer about.
Chicharito Plays Down Hugo Sanchez Comparisons
As Javier ´Chicharito´ Hernandez's stock continues to rise in Europe, in Mexico it rises even more exponentially.
The last Mexico friendly against Bosnia was perhaps the first time the pressure (combined with jet lag) was evident in the former Guadalajara Chivas forward's play. He dribbled when he should have passed and passed when he should have shot.
Facing the press yesterday, the 22-year-old was humble as ever and, like always, stressed that football is a team game, shielding himself from the expectation that is weighing heavy on his shoulders when he puts on the green Mexican shirt.
"Three or four players aren´t going to make history," Chicharito told the press in San Diego. "All of us have to give that little grain of sand, to play at 100 percent to be able to make history."
The Manchester United man did admit that his success in Europe is an inspiration to fellow Mexicans within the national squad.
With the stadium for Saturday´s match in Oakland likely to be full, Chicharito also let out a rousing statement of exactly how important his country is to him.
Stated Chicharito: "Promoting and portraying a positive image of Mexico is always on my mind so that people see Mexico in a differerent light because we aren´t going through a good moment."
The young striker said he was flattered at the constant comparisons with Hugo Sanchez but that such comparisons aren´t really valid.
"Every player is going to be different, every person is different."
The last Mexico friendly against Bosnia was perhaps the first time the pressure (combined with jet lag) was evident in the former Guadalajara Chivas forward's play. He dribbled when he should have passed and passed when he should have shot.
Facing the press yesterday, the 22-year-old was humble as ever and, like always, stressed that football is a team game, shielding himself from the expectation that is weighing heavy on his shoulders when he puts on the green Mexican shirt.
"Three or four players aren´t going to make history," Chicharito told the press in San Diego. "All of us have to give that little grain of sand, to play at 100 percent to be able to make history."
The Manchester United man did admit that his success in Europe is an inspiration to fellow Mexicans within the national squad.
With the stadium for Saturday´s match in Oakland likely to be full, Chicharito also let out a rousing statement of exactly how important his country is to him.
Stated Chicharito: "Promoting and portraying a positive image of Mexico is always on my mind so that people see Mexico in a differerent light because we aren´t going through a good moment."
The young striker said he was flattered at the constant comparisons with Hugo Sanchez but that such comparisons aren´t really valid.
"Every player is going to be different, every person is different."
Monday, 21 March 2011
Cubo picks up Chicharito's mantle at Chivas
It's hardly a secret that Guadalajara Chivas have missed a real goalscorer since Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez left for the cold climes of Manchester in April 2010. It's taken a lot of shuffling and trying out different players but Chivas fans around town believe Erick 'Cubo' Torres, an 18-year-old striker from Guadalajara, is showing all the right signs of filling the huge hole.
In last Saturday's game against Queretaro, Torres scored both goals for Chivas in a 2-0 victory taking his tally up to five with the first team. The first goal showed a great deal of composure. Torres took down a cross on his chest taking it past the last defender and, as the ball fell, he coolly slotted it inside the Queretaro goalkeeper's near post.
His second goal was class too: an unlikely header from the 1.83 meter striker that he guided into the top corner despite sustained pressure from a defender. After it, Torres ran over to the Chivas fans kissing the badge.
The week before against bitter city rivals Atlas, another gesture to the crowd got Torres sent off. After scoring the opening goal in the game early on Torres made a hand sign to the crowd that the referee interpreted as raising the middle finger to the Atlas fans. In fact, Torres gave the sign of a Chivas porra (fan group) to the Chivas fans in celebration and his ban was later revoked.
The incident combined with scoring against Atlas has turned him into a supporter favourite already for Guadalajara Chivas.
Inside the club there are those who think Torres can be even better than Hernandez and that he is even more focused on what he wants to achieve. His youth record speaks for itself. Torres entered the Chivas U-17 team when he was just 15 years old and was always one step ahead of his contemporaries. He has scored bucket-loads of goals at every level since joining Chivas as a small child. Fast, good with both feet and in the air, a natural finisher and down to earth, it's no wonder Torres gets the Chicharito comparison a lot.
"It's very early (to say I'm the heir to Chicharito)," Torres told the press after the Queretaro game. "I'm only just starting."
As he said, it is early days in Torres career but you can bet European scouts are already sniffing around Guadalajara's latest striking talent. A call up to the Copa America squad (where Mexico will play with mainly U-22 year-old players) and Torres' stock is likely to rise yet more.
In last Saturday's game against Queretaro, Torres scored both goals for Chivas in a 2-0 victory taking his tally up to five with the first team. The first goal showed a great deal of composure. Torres took down a cross on his chest taking it past the last defender and, as the ball fell, he coolly slotted it inside the Queretaro goalkeeper's near post.
His second goal was class too: an unlikely header from the 1.83 meter striker that he guided into the top corner despite sustained pressure from a defender. After it, Torres ran over to the Chivas fans kissing the badge.
The week before against bitter city rivals Atlas, another gesture to the crowd got Torres sent off. After scoring the opening goal in the game early on Torres made a hand sign to the crowd that the referee interpreted as raising the middle finger to the Atlas fans. In fact, Torres gave the sign of a Chivas porra (fan group) to the Chivas fans in celebration and his ban was later revoked.
The incident combined with scoring against Atlas has turned him into a supporter favourite already for Guadalajara Chivas.
Inside the club there are those who think Torres can be even better than Hernandez and that he is even more focused on what he wants to achieve. His youth record speaks for itself. Torres entered the Chivas U-17 team when he was just 15 years old and was always one step ahead of his contemporaries. He has scored bucket-loads of goals at every level since joining Chivas as a small child. Fast, good with both feet and in the air, a natural finisher and down to earth, it's no wonder Torres gets the Chicharito comparison a lot.
"It's very early (to say I'm the heir to Chicharito)," Torres told the press after the Queretaro game. "I'm only just starting."
As he said, it is early days in Torres career but you can bet European scouts are already sniffing around Guadalajara's latest striking talent. A call up to the Copa America squad (where Mexico will play with mainly U-22 year-old players) and Torres' stock is likely to rise yet more.
Saturday, 5 March 2011
The Guadalajara Chivas dilemma
When the name Jorge Vergara is mentioned by many Chivas fans in Guadalajara the extremely derogatory "pinche" is often used before it. Translated in its most publishable form it could mean “worthless,” although it usually has much stronger overtones.
The self-made Guadalajara businessman who once served tortas ahogadas in the Jalisco capital's streets bought Chivas, Mexico’s most popular team in 2002. On paper, Vergara should be a perfect owner of the club. Smart, business minded and with a passion for the history of the institution, it’s difficult for an outsider to see why Vergara is disliked among Chivas fans.
The brand new stadium on the outskirts of Guadalajara, the Estadio Omnilife, was conceived and built during Vergara’s reign. It is a monument to modernity and compares favorably with modern soccer stadia in Europe. It is a world away from Chivas´ old stadium, the crumbling Estadio Jalisco. What’s more, Vergara has adhered with passion to Chivas’ Mexican-only policy.
Wouldn’t fans of many football clubs kill for an owner with Vergara´s credentials?
So why can many Chivas fans not wait to see the back of Vergara? Should he be defended?
New Stadium
In the first three games of the season, fewer fans attended Chivas’ home games than the Estudiantes Tecos who play in the tiny 3 de Marzo stadium, are often mocked for having very few fans and, at the time of writing, find themselves at the bottom of the general table.
The Estadio Omnilife, officially opened against Manchester United in July 2010, is one of only a handful in Latin America that is genuinely modern. That hasn’t made Chivas fans happy. Ticket prices combined with the cost of getting to the stadium (located outside the city’s beltway/ring road) have put many fans off. Less fans means less atmosphere. The effect snowballs: the atmosphere is half the fun for some people who go.
Outside the ground, independent food outlets are nowhere to be seen and you won’t find stalls selling legal or illegal merchandise. Instead, a Chivas shop is located inside. You will find official shirts at prices many can´t afford. If you fancy a snack, there are official food stalls, again inside the stadium and at elevated prices.
As a conservative estimate, it costs about 40 dollars (one mid-range ticket for an average game (200 pesos), two beers (120 pesos), one snack (30 pesos), parking (50 pesos) and transport costs(60 pesos)) for one person to go to the stadium. Not very expensive in US or European terms but remember the average wage in Jalisco is less than 500 dollars a month. In other words, if there are two home games a month and you make the AVERAGE wage it will cost almost 16 percent of your monthly income to go and watch Chivas. A Chelsea fan (traditionally one of the most pricey clubs in English soccer) making the average London wage spends less than 8 percent of his/her monthly salary on going twice a month to Stamford Bridge. In those statistics lies the basic problem for Vergara considering he has to recoup the cost of building the stadium. Mexico is not the United Kingdom; disposable income is limited.
Then there is the pitch. Chivas players have been quiet on the issue but the artificial grass used has been criticised by other players such as Rafael Marquez on a recent visit with his team the New York Red Bulls.
“The primary objective is not to injury ourselves because we know that on this type of pitch there’s more chance of getting injured.”
Continued Marquez: “I’m never going to change my opinion of artificial pitches compared to natural ones. It’s a great stadium, great infrastructure but the most important thing, unfortunately, isn’t of top quality.”
The reason for putting down artificial grass was so the stadium could be used for other purposes, but only one concert has so far been held at the stadium and even that was a show for Vergara’s company Omnilife. Only small returns are trickling in from Vergara’s 2 billion peso investment and recouping the outlay in the predicted 10 years looks difficult.
In summary, what Vergara has created is a modern, European-style stadium with an artificial pitch on the edge of the city that is difficult for many traditional working class Chivas fans to reach. Many still pine for the smell of the taco stands, the overflowing buses of singing fans and the souvenir sellers outside the easily accessible, if crumbling, Estadio Jalisco.
Failure to invest in new players over the last year
Traditionally, the use of the foreigner in Mexican football has been to inject that little bit of flair into a side or to plug obvious gaps when homegrown talent isn’t available. It doesn´t always work out. Agents are blamed for bringing expensive and average foreign talent. Not all are talentless however. Quality foreign imports have been the difference between average and great sides on countless occasions in the history of the Mexican league. Take out Chilean Humberto Suazo from the Monterrey team and rivals would feel much more confident of getting a result.
Chivas, who only field Mexican players, don´t have the foreign option. To recruit players for the first team, they have two options: develop players or buy from a rival.
The problem in buying players for Chivas, according to Vergara, is that when the club wants to buy from another Mexican club the price goes up. Vergara refuses to play ball on the issue and instead has invested in local youth. The squad currently has the youngest average age in the Mexican league at just 23 years. Two weeks ago all eleven players in the starting line-up were products of the youth system, a statistic that is becoming rarer in the modern game around the world. It´s almost like the modern game is going one way and Chivas are heading in the opposite direction.
However, Chivas fans, like any other fans, crave success and at the moment they can´t see it on the horizon. The bottom line is that Chivas has only made the playoffs once in the last five tournaments - a massive failure for such a big club. A policy of investing in youth can pay big dividends in the long term but is also highly risky. What if the kids just aren’t good enough? And, how do you hang on to your best players? When Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez had an exceptional year playing for Chivas and scoring a lot of goals, he was sold to Manchester United. That seems to be a clear hole in Vergara´s master plan.
Arrogance
Some people just don’t like Vergara. He rubs them up the wrong way.
“You want Chivas to change and get better?” asked Vergara of Chivas fans in late February. “The only way is helping and coming to the stadium. Those that don’t come can’t demand anything.”
Vergara is known for his outlandish statements.
“In five years we’ll be the best team in Mexico,” said Vergara on buying the club in 2002. “We have to bet on the youngsters, that’s how we’ll do it. The potential is there to be the best team in the world in ten years and we will do it.”
Numerous other promises have gone down the drain to the ire of fans but Vergara has won one championship as owner of the team (within his promised five years) and has improved the organizational and marketing side of the club markedly.
The treatment of former captain Ramon Morales and the way he left the club in tears was also symptomatic of Vergara´s ruthless side that sits uneasily with the fans. He decided that the star’s days at Chivas had come to an end and he should be moved on. It wasn´t a popular decision because Morales was a referencia for the team, a key figure not just on the field but as a representative of the club and its traditions.
In another dispute between fans and Vergara, a move to change the club badge led to protests outside the training ground.
On the positive side
The flipside of the negativity has to be aired. Is it not refreshing to see a team whose average age is 23, made up of all Mexicans (most local), especially considering the ongoing debate about youth getting a chance in Mexico's highest league? In an era where players are accused of being mercenaries (and nowhere more than in Mexico) shouldn´t the fans not be 100 percent the project?
The team has only lost twice so far this year and has some bright youngsters like Erick Torres, Michel Vazquez and Jorge Mora combined with a strong defense led by Luis Michel, Jonny Magallon and Hector Reynoso. If some of the youngsters kick on and Alberto Medina, Adolfo ´Bofo´ Bautista and Omar Arellano can start fulfilling their potential, there´s no reason to be so negative. Don´t forget this same team reached the final of the Copa Libertadores less than twelve months ago.
Conclusion
For many, Chivas are quickly losing the 'people's team' tag and the stadium is very sparsely populated most games. In one recent example, less than 4,000 fans turned up to watch the team play New York Red Bulls in a friendly.
The relationship between club and fans is shaky at best. The future of Chivas is uncertain but gripping. How will Vergara fill the stadium if the team is average? Will he withstand the pressure, win some trophies and be declared a genius?
It’d be great for Mexican soccer if it happens but not too many are very confident around Guadalajara.
The self-made Guadalajara businessman who once served tortas ahogadas in the Jalisco capital's streets bought Chivas, Mexico’s most popular team in 2002. On paper, Vergara should be a perfect owner of the club. Smart, business minded and with a passion for the history of the institution, it’s difficult for an outsider to see why Vergara is disliked among Chivas fans.
The brand new stadium on the outskirts of Guadalajara, the Estadio Omnilife, was conceived and built during Vergara’s reign. It is a monument to modernity and compares favorably with modern soccer stadia in Europe. It is a world away from Chivas´ old stadium, the crumbling Estadio Jalisco. What’s more, Vergara has adhered with passion to Chivas’ Mexican-only policy.
Wouldn’t fans of many football clubs kill for an owner with Vergara´s credentials?
So why can many Chivas fans not wait to see the back of Vergara? Should he be defended?
New Stadium
In the first three games of the season, fewer fans attended Chivas’ home games than the Estudiantes Tecos who play in the tiny 3 de Marzo stadium, are often mocked for having very few fans and, at the time of writing, find themselves at the bottom of the general table.
The Estadio Omnilife, officially opened against Manchester United in July 2010, is one of only a handful in Latin America that is genuinely modern. That hasn’t made Chivas fans happy. Ticket prices combined with the cost of getting to the stadium (located outside the city’s beltway/ring road) have put many fans off. Less fans means less atmosphere. The effect snowballs: the atmosphere is half the fun for some people who go.
Outside the ground, independent food outlets are nowhere to be seen and you won’t find stalls selling legal or illegal merchandise. Instead, a Chivas shop is located inside. You will find official shirts at prices many can´t afford. If you fancy a snack, there are official food stalls, again inside the stadium and at elevated prices.
As a conservative estimate, it costs about 40 dollars (one mid-range ticket for an average game (200 pesos), two beers (120 pesos), one snack (30 pesos), parking (50 pesos) and transport costs(60 pesos)) for one person to go to the stadium. Not very expensive in US or European terms but remember the average wage in Jalisco is less than 500 dollars a month. In other words, if there are two home games a month and you make the AVERAGE wage it will cost almost 16 percent of your monthly income to go and watch Chivas. A Chelsea fan (traditionally one of the most pricey clubs in English soccer) making the average London wage spends less than 8 percent of his/her monthly salary on going twice a month to Stamford Bridge. In those statistics lies the basic problem for Vergara considering he has to recoup the cost of building the stadium. Mexico is not the United Kingdom; disposable income is limited.
Then there is the pitch. Chivas players have been quiet on the issue but the artificial grass used has been criticised by other players such as Rafael Marquez on a recent visit with his team the New York Red Bulls.
“The primary objective is not to injury ourselves because we know that on this type of pitch there’s more chance of getting injured.”
Continued Marquez: “I’m never going to change my opinion of artificial pitches compared to natural ones. It’s a great stadium, great infrastructure but the most important thing, unfortunately, isn’t of top quality.”
The reason for putting down artificial grass was so the stadium could be used for other purposes, but only one concert has so far been held at the stadium and even that was a show for Vergara’s company Omnilife. Only small returns are trickling in from Vergara’s 2 billion peso investment and recouping the outlay in the predicted 10 years looks difficult.
In summary, what Vergara has created is a modern, European-style stadium with an artificial pitch on the edge of the city that is difficult for many traditional working class Chivas fans to reach. Many still pine for the smell of the taco stands, the overflowing buses of singing fans and the souvenir sellers outside the easily accessible, if crumbling, Estadio Jalisco.
Failure to invest in new players over the last year
Traditionally, the use of the foreigner in Mexican football has been to inject that little bit of flair into a side or to plug obvious gaps when homegrown talent isn’t available. It doesn´t always work out. Agents are blamed for bringing expensive and average foreign talent. Not all are talentless however. Quality foreign imports have been the difference between average and great sides on countless occasions in the history of the Mexican league. Take out Chilean Humberto Suazo from the Monterrey team and rivals would feel much more confident of getting a result.
Chivas, who only field Mexican players, don´t have the foreign option. To recruit players for the first team, they have two options: develop players or buy from a rival.
The problem in buying players for Chivas, according to Vergara, is that when the club wants to buy from another Mexican club the price goes up. Vergara refuses to play ball on the issue and instead has invested in local youth. The squad currently has the youngest average age in the Mexican league at just 23 years. Two weeks ago all eleven players in the starting line-up were products of the youth system, a statistic that is becoming rarer in the modern game around the world. It´s almost like the modern game is going one way and Chivas are heading in the opposite direction.
However, Chivas fans, like any other fans, crave success and at the moment they can´t see it on the horizon. The bottom line is that Chivas has only made the playoffs once in the last five tournaments - a massive failure for such a big club. A policy of investing in youth can pay big dividends in the long term but is also highly risky. What if the kids just aren’t good enough? And, how do you hang on to your best players? When Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez had an exceptional year playing for Chivas and scoring a lot of goals, he was sold to Manchester United. That seems to be a clear hole in Vergara´s master plan.
Arrogance
Some people just don’t like Vergara. He rubs them up the wrong way.
“You want Chivas to change and get better?” asked Vergara of Chivas fans in late February. “The only way is helping and coming to the stadium. Those that don’t come can’t demand anything.”
Vergara is known for his outlandish statements.
“In five years we’ll be the best team in Mexico,” said Vergara on buying the club in 2002. “We have to bet on the youngsters, that’s how we’ll do it. The potential is there to be the best team in the world in ten years and we will do it.”
Numerous other promises have gone down the drain to the ire of fans but Vergara has won one championship as owner of the team (within his promised five years) and has improved the organizational and marketing side of the club markedly.
The treatment of former captain Ramon Morales and the way he left the club in tears was also symptomatic of Vergara´s ruthless side that sits uneasily with the fans. He decided that the star’s days at Chivas had come to an end and he should be moved on. It wasn´t a popular decision because Morales was a referencia for the team, a key figure not just on the field but as a representative of the club and its traditions.
In another dispute between fans and Vergara, a move to change the club badge led to protests outside the training ground.
On the positive side
The flipside of the negativity has to be aired. Is it not refreshing to see a team whose average age is 23, made up of all Mexicans (most local), especially considering the ongoing debate about youth getting a chance in Mexico's highest league? In an era where players are accused of being mercenaries (and nowhere more than in Mexico) shouldn´t the fans not be 100 percent the project?
The team has only lost twice so far this year and has some bright youngsters like Erick Torres, Michel Vazquez and Jorge Mora combined with a strong defense led by Luis Michel, Jonny Magallon and Hector Reynoso. If some of the youngsters kick on and Alberto Medina, Adolfo ´Bofo´ Bautista and Omar Arellano can start fulfilling their potential, there´s no reason to be so negative. Don´t forget this same team reached the final of the Copa Libertadores less than twelve months ago.
Conclusion
For many, Chivas are quickly losing the 'people's team' tag and the stadium is very sparsely populated most games. In one recent example, less than 4,000 fans turned up to watch the team play New York Red Bulls in a friendly.
The relationship between club and fans is shaky at best. The future of Chivas is uncertain but gripping. How will Vergara fill the stadium if the team is average? Will he withstand the pressure, win some trophies and be declared a genius?
It’d be great for Mexican soccer if it happens but not too many are very confident around Guadalajara.
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