Mexico coach Sven Goran Eriksson will have a team in place for the next three days to work on tactics with an eye towards the Sweden game. This is probably many of the same players who, along with the smattering of Mexicans based in Europe, will be in Columbus for US-Mexico.
So if you are a US supporter and aren't familiar with these names, start getting to know them.
Goalkeepers: Oswaldo Sánchez (Santos), Guillermo Ochoa (America), José de Jesús Corona (Tecos).
Defenders: Juan Carlos Valenzuela (America), Israel Castro (Pumas), Leobardo López (Pachuca), Edgar Dueñas (Toluca), Diego Martínez (Monterrey), Julio Cesar Domínguez (Cruz Azul), Fausto Pinto (Cruz Azul), Edgar Castillo (America), Israel Martínez (San Luis).
Midfielders: Antonio Naelson Sinha (Toluca), Pavel Pardo (America), Luis Pérez (Monterrey), Leandro Augusto (Pumas), Lucas Ayala (Atlas).
Forwards: Alberto Medina (Chivas), Cesar Villaluz (Cruz Azul), Matías Vuoso (Santos), Carlos Ochoa (Chivas), Néstor Calderón (Toluca), Marco Fabián (Chivas).
Monday, January 19, 2009
Lalas getting play
Alexi Lalas has been getting a lot of notoriety in Mexico lately. Apparently, his comments on ESPN a week ago about how he hates Mexico and wants to crush them were not taken too kindly down south.
Here's a clip from Futbol Picante that has what Lalas said and then some back-and-forth between the panel (which I took the liberty of loosely translating):
The first guy talks about how Alexi Lalas went to Italy but that it did not go well for him at all, and how the US has had better exports than him. Then, he says that a US win over Mexico is to the US like a Mexico win over Brazil is to Mexico and that he doesn't have the slightest doubt over that. He goes on to say that, because of the United States' inability to beat Mexico in Mexico, everything is even between the two nations.
He then talks positively about the Americans and their performance in the 02 World Cup, how they tap-danced over Portugal and had a 3-0 lead over 30 minutes, how they had a goal robbed from them against Germany.
Then, the younger guy chimes in and seems incredulous about the statement that beating Mexico is akin to El Tri beating Brazil. He says that the US made them (Mexican media/fans I assume) believers a long time ago.
The host says to look at who the US has played - they've played against England, Italy, Argentina, Holland. They know that if they don't play those teams they won't grow.
The gray-haired guy says that the US does have some talent, that Donovan is a great player but that is a team that succeeds because of their tactics and not because of their talent, that the best thing they do is defend.
The host says that what has worked for the US has been their consistency, that Steve Sampson was an assistant under Bora, that Bruce Arena worked with the Under-20s (did he? I'm not sure he's right on that one), that Bob Bradley was an assitant coach as well, and then compares that to Mexico who went from Ricardo Lavolpe to Hugo Sanchez, which was a completely different coach, and now Sven Goran Eriksson, whom he says he still does not understand and says the US has an advantage over them there as well.
Here's a clip from Futbol Picante that has what Lalas said and then some back-and-forth between the panel (which I took the liberty of loosely translating):
The first guy talks about how Alexi Lalas went to Italy but that it did not go well for him at all, and how the US has had better exports than him. Then, he says that a US win over Mexico is to the US like a Mexico win over Brazil is to Mexico and that he doesn't have the slightest doubt over that. He goes on to say that, because of the United States' inability to beat Mexico in Mexico, everything is even between the two nations.
He then talks positively about the Americans and their performance in the 02 World Cup, how they tap-danced over Portugal and had a 3-0 lead over 30 minutes, how they had a goal robbed from them against Germany.
Then, the younger guy chimes in and seems incredulous about the statement that beating Mexico is akin to El Tri beating Brazil. He says that the US made them (Mexican media/fans I assume) believers a long time ago.
The host says to look at who the US has played - they've played against England, Italy, Argentina, Holland. They know that if they don't play those teams they won't grow.
The gray-haired guy says that the US does have some talent, that Donovan is a great player but that is a team that succeeds because of their tactics and not because of their talent, that the best thing they do is defend.
The host says that what has worked for the US has been their consistency, that Steve Sampson was an assistant under Bora, that Bruce Arena worked with the Under-20s (did he? I'm not sure he's right on that one), that Bob Bradley was an assitant coach as well, and then compares that to Mexico who went from Ricardo Lavolpe to Hugo Sanchez, which was a completely different coach, and now Sven Goran Eriksson, whom he says he still does not understand and says the US has an advantage over them there as well.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Guardado hurt
Andres Guardado left Deportivo's game on Saturday with a left calf injury, the extent of which won't be known until Monday.
The Mexican standout could be out for six weeks, which would effectively rule him out of Mexico's game against the United States.
If Guardado misses the game, he would be the fourth first-choice player that would not be available for the game. Already Gerardo Torrado and Carlos Vela are out do to suspension while defender Jonny Magallon has already been lost for the first few weeks of the Clausura season, though he said recently he plans on returning to full healthy by early February.
The Mexican standout could be out for six weeks, which would effectively rule him out of Mexico's game against the United States.
If Guardado misses the game, he would be the fourth first-choice player that would not be available for the game. Already Gerardo Torrado and Carlos Vela are out do to suspension while defender Jonny Magallon has already been lost for the first few weeks of the Clausura season, though he said recently he plans on returning to full healthy by early February.
Ratings
It really was a Juegazo, Chivas-Cruz Azul. The game ended 3-3, featured a red card for one side, a yellow that easily could have been a red for the other and overall just a high-intensity game, which for the first game of the season is saying something.Of interest to area fans, Francisco Mendoza played as a substitute late in the game. Mural rated the players and gave him a 6.5 rating. Here's what they had to say about his night:
"When Morales left the threats ended, though he (Mendoza) made a few plays."
That last part actually said "hizo algunos desbordes" so if you can translate it better, feel free to let me know. I guess that's the gist of it anyway.
I thought Mendoza should have gotten a 7 (based on their other ratings) since he was after all responsible for having a Cruz Azul player sent off.
Here's how their other ratings went (sorry, don't have time to give you all the commentary):
Starters: Luis Michel 6, Xavier Baez 7, Hector Reynoso 6, Edgar Mejia 6.5, Ramon Morales 7, Patricio Araujo 6, Gonzalo Pineda 7, Amaury Ponce 7, Sergio Avila 7, Alberto Medina 7.5, Carlos Ochoa 8.
Subs: Edgar Solis 6, Marco Fabian 6.5, Francisco Mendoza 6.5.
Coach: Efrain Flores 7
In case you missed it, here are the highlights. At the very end, you can see the clip of Panchito getting taken out:
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Panchito debuts
And he looked great!
Panchito Mendoza came on in the second half of Chivas' season opener against Cruz Azul on Saturday. He drew a red card when he got kicked viciously in the shoulder. That didn't exactly take a great deal of skill but still he was right there battling for a ball and took a beating for his new team.
He actually looked dangerous on the left wing. He had a couple of good crosses and made some other good passes. He looked poised and confident and capable, didn't look timid for one moment.
Not sure if Mendoza can nab a starting spot but he didn't hurt his chances any on Saturday. Chivas tied 3-3 incidentally. Carlos Ochoa had two goals while Amaury Ponce got the other as the newcomers did well for their new club.
Panchito Mendoza came on in the second half of Chivas' season opener against Cruz Azul on Saturday. He drew a red card when he got kicked viciously in the shoulder. That didn't exactly take a great deal of skill but still he was right there battling for a ball and took a beating for his new team.
He actually looked dangerous on the left wing. He had a couple of good crosses and made some other good passes. He looked poised and confident and capable, didn't look timid for one moment.
Not sure if Mendoza can nab a starting spot but he didn't hurt his chances any on Saturday. Chivas tied 3-3 incidentally. Carlos Ochoa had two goals while Amaury Ponce got the other as the newcomers did well for their new club.
Mexican Clausura Preview
I was going to write something like this for SI.com but chose instead to write that piece on Borgetti/Mendoza/Chivas/Chivas USA.
Anyway, the Mexican Clausura 09 season is upon us. It seems like just last month Toluca was beating Cruz Azul in the finals of the Apertura. Now, not much time has passed but there have been lots of changes in the league since los Diablos Rojos won their ninth league title.
Here's a look at some of the moves I liked and didn't like followed by some other tidbits and my prediction for champion.
Moves I Like
Aaron Galindo to Chivas: Chivas needed a central defender for several reasons; Jonny Magallon is hurt and won't be able to play for the first quarter of the season at least. Galindo can step right in and be a force in the backline. After time in Spain, Switzerland and, most recently Germany, Galindo should return to Mexico a much more polished defender.
Pavel Pardo to America: America needed something. The club's poor outing a season ago was embarrassing for a club of America's stature, and the team has not been competitive in league for more than one year. What better way to help restore some of the luster than to bring back a player that represents some of what has been lost? Pardo led America to championships in the Verano 02 and Clausura 05 titles and knows what it takes to lead America back to glory. Can they get there? They have a much better shot with Pardo than without.
Bruno Marioni to Atlas: Atlas is the perennial fraud, a team that looks good in the preseason but is nowhere to be found come playoff time. However, with Marioni around to fill the nets the team may just have a chance for the Liguilla this year. Marioni was decent with Pachuca but personal reasons led to Marioni's return, where he has thrived. Look for Marioni to challenge for the league lead in goals and if he can get some consistent support Atlas may indeed be a contender this season.
Moves I Don't Like
Alfredo Moreno to Necaxa: Much is being expected of Moreno. A former standout with San Luis, Moreno struggled in his only season with America and now is out to help Necaxa stay clear of the relegation zone. Moreno, though, is not likely to find his comfort zone with another new club, his third team in the last nine months. If he can get in a groove, Moreno can be productive but with a team that pretty much made wholesale changes it may take a while. This is Moreno's second stint with Necaxa; during his first he was decent but was not a goal-scoring threat as he became in San Luis.
Luis Angel Landin to Cruz Azul: La Maquina found some magic in Miguel Sabah and helped squeeze water from rocks with him. It will require more magic to help make Landin productive. Landin had been tagged a can't-miss prospect but instead makes us wonder why anyone thought he would be a star. Landin's image has been inflated and Cruz Azul acquired themselves a player that will become dead weight soon enough.
Nobody to Pumas: The offseason came and went and Pumas stood pat. It may seem as if the team was good enough to do so as Pumas finished fourth overall and enjoyed a fairly decent campaign. But Pumas lost five of their 17 games a season ago, hardly a statistic worth bragging about. Now, Pumas did have the league's stingiest defense and if coach "Tuca" Ferreti is banking on his defense carrying them to a title, fine. But Cruz Azul scored three goals on them in the playoffs in Pumas' home no doubt. That may have served as a bit of a wakeup call that they indeed do not have a championship-caliber defense.
Chivas vs. America
Neither team made the playoffs so consequently both sides made numerous changes. Who improved their team more? I think America did, but I will say that Chivas enters the season the better team. America brought in Pardo, Edgar Castillo and Jean Beausejour and I think collectively all of America's imports will make more of an impact than Chivas' new players. However, Chivas is in the mix with Pumas and Cruz Azul to win the group title while America needs to avoid a sluggish start if they are to contend.
First Coach Fired?
Puebla's Jose Luis Sanchez. It will be September all over again soon enough. Sanchez was sacked from this very post in September and gave way to Mario Carrillo. After the season, the club parted ways with Carrillo and tried to bring in Ruben Omar Romano. Instead, Sanchez is the man again. And he'll be fired as a last resort when Puebla falls into the abyss and the Primera A seems inevitable.
Pretenders
Tigres: Since reaching the semifinals in the Apertura 2005 season, Tigres have two first-round exits to show for six otherwise forgettable season. Signs might point to this club rising to contention again - a playoff appearance a season ago, an experienced coach in Manuel Lapuente - but don't believe it. Tigres won't make the playoffs this season and will be looking for a coach this summer.
Pachuca: The glory days are long gone, but so are the days when Pachuca was a difficult team to beat. Los Tuzos can still play with anyone on any day but those days are few and far between. Copa Libertadores will deal a death blow to a club that will struggle yet again in league. Coach Enrique Meza's days are numbered as well.
San Luis: Raul Arias built up San Luis into a contender and one of the best teams in the league, although the club did not have a trophy to show for their efforts. Raul Arias is no longer around. Now, the team still has talent, including American defender Michael Orozco, but Arias meant a lot to San Luis' efforts. With a new man in charge, the club will struggle to gain their footing.
Contenders
Chivas: Believe it. Jorge Vergara may have loose lips and may say some outrageous things but this time he has a team that can back him up. Their youth is coming together while the veterans can still play and bring plenty to the table. Copa Libertadores duty might hamper the team but Chivas did enough in the offseason to ensure that they are well-stocked for the two tournaments.
Cruz Azul: It was no fluke that this team reached two consecutive finals and only misfortune kept La Maquina from breaking their decade-long title drought. To expect them to reach a third title might seem unrealistic but few gave them a shot of reaching one final, let alone two. Landin will not produce for the club but fortunately there is enough talent around so that the club will not depend on him much.
And the title will go to... Toluca. Pressure? What pressure? Toluca captured their ninth league title - good for third all-time - with a pulsating final win over Cruz Azul that saw the club need penalties to seal the deal. Toluca now seem poised for a letdown as only Pumas has won consecutive short-season titles. You can add Toluca to that short list come the end of the season. Toluca added Sergio Santana, who had seven- and nine-goal seasons before slumping a year ago and losing his confidence. Santana should have plenty of room to manuever as defenses key in on Hector Raul Mancilla, who broke through for 13 goals a year ago. Jose Manuel De La Torre's system produced the ultimate result in his first season and with that much success to build on, Toluca's future is bright.
Anyway, the Mexican Clausura 09 season is upon us. It seems like just last month Toluca was beating Cruz Azul in the finals of the Apertura. Now, not much time has passed but there have been lots of changes in the league since los Diablos Rojos won their ninth league title.
Here's a look at some of the moves I liked and didn't like followed by some other tidbits and my prediction for champion.
Moves I Like
Aaron Galindo to Chivas: Chivas needed a central defender for several reasons; Jonny Magallon is hurt and won't be able to play for the first quarter of the season at least. Galindo can step right in and be a force in the backline. After time in Spain, Switzerland and, most recently Germany, Galindo should return to Mexico a much more polished defender.
Pavel Pardo to America: America needed something. The club's poor outing a season ago was embarrassing for a club of America's stature, and the team has not been competitive in league for more than one year. What better way to help restore some of the luster than to bring back a player that represents some of what has been lost? Pardo led America to championships in the Verano 02 and Clausura 05 titles and knows what it takes to lead America back to glory. Can they get there? They have a much better shot with Pardo than without.
Bruno Marioni to Atlas: Atlas is the perennial fraud, a team that looks good in the preseason but is nowhere to be found come playoff time. However, with Marioni around to fill the nets the team may just have a chance for the Liguilla this year. Marioni was decent with Pachuca but personal reasons led to Marioni's return, where he has thrived. Look for Marioni to challenge for the league lead in goals and if he can get some consistent support Atlas may indeed be a contender this season.
Moves I Don't Like
Alfredo Moreno to Necaxa: Much is being expected of Moreno. A former standout with San Luis, Moreno struggled in his only season with America and now is out to help Necaxa stay clear of the relegation zone. Moreno, though, is not likely to find his comfort zone with another new club, his third team in the last nine months. If he can get in a groove, Moreno can be productive but with a team that pretty much made wholesale changes it may take a while. This is Moreno's second stint with Necaxa; during his first he was decent but was not a goal-scoring threat as he became in San Luis.
Luis Angel Landin to Cruz Azul: La Maquina found some magic in Miguel Sabah and helped squeeze water from rocks with him. It will require more magic to help make Landin productive. Landin had been tagged a can't-miss prospect but instead makes us wonder why anyone thought he would be a star. Landin's image has been inflated and Cruz Azul acquired themselves a player that will become dead weight soon enough.
Nobody to Pumas: The offseason came and went and Pumas stood pat. It may seem as if the team was good enough to do so as Pumas finished fourth overall and enjoyed a fairly decent campaign. But Pumas lost five of their 17 games a season ago, hardly a statistic worth bragging about. Now, Pumas did have the league's stingiest defense and if coach "Tuca" Ferreti is banking on his defense carrying them to a title, fine. But Cruz Azul scored three goals on them in the playoffs in Pumas' home no doubt. That may have served as a bit of a wakeup call that they indeed do not have a championship-caliber defense.
Chivas vs. America
Neither team made the playoffs so consequently both sides made numerous changes. Who improved their team more? I think America did, but I will say that Chivas enters the season the better team. America brought in Pardo, Edgar Castillo and Jean Beausejour and I think collectively all of America's imports will make more of an impact than Chivas' new players. However, Chivas is in the mix with Pumas and Cruz Azul to win the group title while America needs to avoid a sluggish start if they are to contend.
First Coach Fired?
Puebla's Jose Luis Sanchez. It will be September all over again soon enough. Sanchez was sacked from this very post in September and gave way to Mario Carrillo. After the season, the club parted ways with Carrillo and tried to bring in Ruben Omar Romano. Instead, Sanchez is the man again. And he'll be fired as a last resort when Puebla falls into the abyss and the Primera A seems inevitable.
Pretenders
Tigres: Since reaching the semifinals in the Apertura 2005 season, Tigres have two first-round exits to show for six otherwise forgettable season. Signs might point to this club rising to contention again - a playoff appearance a season ago, an experienced coach in Manuel Lapuente - but don't believe it. Tigres won't make the playoffs this season and will be looking for a coach this summer.
Pachuca: The glory days are long gone, but so are the days when Pachuca was a difficult team to beat. Los Tuzos can still play with anyone on any day but those days are few and far between. Copa Libertadores will deal a death blow to a club that will struggle yet again in league. Coach Enrique Meza's days are numbered as well.
San Luis: Raul Arias built up San Luis into a contender and one of the best teams in the league, although the club did not have a trophy to show for their efforts. Raul Arias is no longer around. Now, the team still has talent, including American defender Michael Orozco, but Arias meant a lot to San Luis' efforts. With a new man in charge, the club will struggle to gain their footing.
Contenders
Chivas: Believe it. Jorge Vergara may have loose lips and may say some outrageous things but this time he has a team that can back him up. Their youth is coming together while the veterans can still play and bring plenty to the table. Copa Libertadores duty might hamper the team but Chivas did enough in the offseason to ensure that they are well-stocked for the two tournaments.
Cruz Azul: It was no fluke that this team reached two consecutive finals and only misfortune kept La Maquina from breaking their decade-long title drought. To expect them to reach a third title might seem unrealistic but few gave them a shot of reaching one final, let alone two. Landin will not produce for the club but fortunately there is enough talent around so that the club will not depend on him much.
And the title will go to... Toluca. Pressure? What pressure? Toluca captured their ninth league title - good for third all-time - with a pulsating final win over Cruz Azul that saw the club need penalties to seal the deal. Toluca now seem poised for a letdown as only Pumas has won consecutive short-season titles. You can add Toluca to that short list come the end of the season. Toluca added Sergio Santana, who had seven- and nine-goal seasons before slumping a year ago and losing his confidence. Santana should have plenty of room to manuever as defenses key in on Hector Raul Mancilla, who broke through for 13 goals a year ago. Jose Manuel De La Torre's system produced the ultimate result in his first season and with that much success to build on, Toluca's future is bright.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Pieces in motion
I wrote about Francisco Mendoza and Jared Borgetti and their significance and potential impact on Chivas USA for SI.com this morning.
Borgetti seems poised for a move stateside and I wanted to explore that, Chivas' relationship with their MLS franchise and how Mendoza's move to Mexico could affect not just himself and his former club but all of MLS.
Borgetti seems poised for a move stateside and I wanted to explore that, Chivas' relationship with their MLS franchise and how Mendoza's move to Mexico could affect not just himself and his former club but all of MLS.
All smiles
The newest batch of Chivas refuerzos for the Clausura 2009 season.How does Panchito look in those stripes?
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Galaxy land Gonzalez
The central defender of the future fell into the Galaxy's lap.
Omar Gonzalez, who had been projected by some draftniks as going first overall, was available when the Galaxy were ready to select and the club snatched him up, instantly improving the league's worst defense.
Gonzalez could step in and start from Day One. Unfortunately, that does not speak on Gonzalez's ability alone. The defense is lousy and lacking talent, and Gonzalez upgrades the backline. Sean Franklin (who injured himself and was forced to leave US camp this week) and Gonzalez could form a strong partnership in the heart of LA's defense. Still, Franklin's favored spot is right back but necessity may dictate he plays in central defense again.
The Galaxy dealt away Ante Jazic and two draft picks to Chivas USA for their rivals' second round pick and took AJ De La Garza from Maryland. A defender, De La Garza supposedly can play in central defense or on either defensive flank. Perhaps the biggest downside to De La Garza is his size, or lack thereof, as De La Garza is all of 5-foot-8. Still, the Galaxy must have seen something they liked in De La Garza to have traded a solid starter and picks for him.
With left back an open competition now (I don't concede this spot to Mike Randolph), it seems the Galaxy could have a pair of rookies plus a second-year player starting on defense. It might seem like a scary prospect but it can't get any more frightening than 2008.
Omar Gonzalez, who had been projected by some draftniks as going first overall, was available when the Galaxy were ready to select and the club snatched him up, instantly improving the league's worst defense.
Gonzalez could step in and start from Day One. Unfortunately, that does not speak on Gonzalez's ability alone. The defense is lousy and lacking talent, and Gonzalez upgrades the backline. Sean Franklin (who injured himself and was forced to leave US camp this week) and Gonzalez could form a strong partnership in the heart of LA's defense. Still, Franklin's favored spot is right back but necessity may dictate he plays in central defense again.
The Galaxy dealt away Ante Jazic and two draft picks to Chivas USA for their rivals' second round pick and took AJ De La Garza from Maryland. A defender, De La Garza supposedly can play in central defense or on either defensive flank. Perhaps the biggest downside to De La Garza is his size, or lack thereof, as De La Garza is all of 5-foot-8. Still, the Galaxy must have seen something they liked in De La Garza to have traded a solid starter and picks for him.
With left back an open competition now (I don't concede this spot to Mike Randolph), it seems the Galaxy could have a pair of rookies plus a second-year player starting on defense. It might seem like a scary prospect but it can't get any more frightening than 2008.
Ante times two; Sacha off to Europe
It got kind of confusing at times here around Home Depot Center sometimes during the last couple of seasons.
"I interviewed Ante about..." someone would tell me, and I'd immediately think Razov, he of Chivas USA. But sometimes, the person on the other end was thinking Jazic, he of the Galaxy. It wasn't that often but there were times, especially before and after a Super Clasico, that it got a bit tricky to sort out the different Antes.
Now, it's going to get even more trickier. Chivas USA acquired Ante Jazic in a draft-day trade with the Galaxy. Jazic heads across the hall to the Red-and-White along with third- and fourth-round draft choices in exchange for Chivas USA's second round pick. Chivas picked Kyle Christensen, a forward from the University of Denver, and Jamie Franks, a midfielder out of Wake Forest. Earlier in the day, Chivas took Wake Forest midfielder Michael Lahoud with the ninth overall draft choice.
I'll blog about the impact of the Jazic trade and the Galaxy draft in general in a separate post... because they did do well on Thursday.
In terms of Chivas USA, though, this seems to solidify a few things on the left side of the field. Ante Jazic is a left back and has played central defense before. With Shavar Thomas, Claudio Suarez, Jim Curtin and Bobby Burling, Chivas is pretty set at central defense, which leaves Jazic to contend for a spot at left back. Where does this leave Jonathan Bornstein? Likely at left midfield, or there may be an outside chance of him moving over to the right as he did play there a few times last season.
If Bornstein does indeed move to the left side of the midfield to replace the spot left vacant by Panchito Mendoza's exit, the odd man out seems to be Jorge Flores. I know a lot of fans are clamoring for more playing time for "Sueno" but he's going to have to earn it, and picking up Jazic means a tougher go at it for Flores. Still, the squad is deeper with Jazic aboard.
Also on Thursday, the club announced that Sacha Kljestan is headed to Celtic for a weeklong trial. Kljestan bolted US national team camp for a trip to Scotland to train with Celtic but will be back stateside for the US-Sweden game at HDC on Jan. 24. Kljestan had been linked to several European sides during the offseason and this move seems like it could be a precursor for an outright transfer. It seems like it would be in his hands whether to make the move or not; if he impresses, he's probably good as gone.
Once training camp starts, the Sacha situation will likely be close to being resolved if it hasn't been resolved already. Kljestan's future seems in Europe, and if Chivas USA is stuck in a similar position with Kljestan as they were with Brad Guzan a year ago, the club might ultimately be stuck with another unenviable position: deal the player in the summer or lose him at the end of the year.
"I interviewed Ante about..." someone would tell me, and I'd immediately think Razov, he of Chivas USA. But sometimes, the person on the other end was thinking Jazic, he of the Galaxy. It wasn't that often but there were times, especially before and after a Super Clasico, that it got a bit tricky to sort out the different Antes.
Now, it's going to get even more trickier. Chivas USA acquired Ante Jazic in a draft-day trade with the Galaxy. Jazic heads across the hall to the Red-and-White along with third- and fourth-round draft choices in exchange for Chivas USA's second round pick. Chivas picked Kyle Christensen, a forward from the University of Denver, and Jamie Franks, a midfielder out of Wake Forest. Earlier in the day, Chivas took Wake Forest midfielder Michael Lahoud with the ninth overall draft choice.
I'll blog about the impact of the Jazic trade and the Galaxy draft in general in a separate post... because they did do well on Thursday.
In terms of Chivas USA, though, this seems to solidify a few things on the left side of the field. Ante Jazic is a left back and has played central defense before. With Shavar Thomas, Claudio Suarez, Jim Curtin and Bobby Burling, Chivas is pretty set at central defense, which leaves Jazic to contend for a spot at left back. Where does this leave Jonathan Bornstein? Likely at left midfield, or there may be an outside chance of him moving over to the right as he did play there a few times last season.
If Bornstein does indeed move to the left side of the midfield to replace the spot left vacant by Panchito Mendoza's exit, the odd man out seems to be Jorge Flores. I know a lot of fans are clamoring for more playing time for "Sueno" but he's going to have to earn it, and picking up Jazic means a tougher go at it for Flores. Still, the squad is deeper with Jazic aboard.
Also on Thursday, the club announced that Sacha Kljestan is headed to Celtic for a weeklong trial. Kljestan bolted US national team camp for a trip to Scotland to train with Celtic but will be back stateside for the US-Sweden game at HDC on Jan. 24. Kljestan had been linked to several European sides during the offseason and this move seems like it could be a precursor for an outright transfer. It seems like it would be in his hands whether to make the move or not; if he impresses, he's probably good as gone.
Once training camp starts, the Sacha situation will likely be close to being resolved if it hasn't been resolved already. Kljestan's future seems in Europe, and if Chivas USA is stuck in a similar position with Kljestan as they were with Brad Guzan a year ago, the club might ultimately be stuck with another unenviable position: deal the player in the summer or lose him at the end of the year.
Link to draft coverage
I've got to step away for the rest of the afternoon so it'll be a while before I update the SuperDraft results. However, for quality coverage please visit From College the the Pros. That's where I'll be tracking the draft results from my phone.
Americans in Mexico: Primera A gets underway
The young Americans in Mexico's Primera A Division got a jump start on their countrymen in the first division as Mexico's second division got underway over the weekend.
We'll be providing updates for you here on the Americans in Mexico throughout the season and I'll have a bit more in-depth look at all the players on Friday, so look out for that.
Until then, here's how the Americans in Mexico fared in Jornada 1 of the Primera A:
Sammy Ochoa: Started and played 57 minutes in Tecos' 4-0 loss to Cruz Azul Hidalgo.
Sonny Guadarrama: Started and played 45 minutes in Merida's 2-0 win over Indios Chihuahua.
Marco Antonio Vidal: Played 90 minutes in Indios' Chihuahua's 2-0 loss to Merida.
Tapatio (Jesus Padilla, Carlos Borja) had a bye week.
We'll be providing updates for you here on the Americans in Mexico throughout the season and I'll have a bit more in-depth look at all the players on Friday, so look out for that.
Until then, here's how the Americans in Mexico fared in Jornada 1 of the Primera A:
Sammy Ochoa: Started and played 57 minutes in Tecos' 4-0 loss to Cruz Azul Hidalgo.
Sonny Guadarrama: Started and played 45 minutes in Merida's 2-0 win over Indios Chihuahua.
Marco Antonio Vidal: Played 90 minutes in Indios' Chihuahua's 2-0 loss to Merida.
Tapatio (Jesus Padilla, Carlos Borja) had a bye week.
Jared to Chivas USA?
Guadalajara daily Mural said that part of the reasoning behind Chivas' signing of Jared Borgetti is to ship him to Chivas USA in June. Mural ran a quote from a "source close to the club" talking about the possibility of Borgetti joining Chivas USA."He would be the star of the team in Los Angeles," the source told Mural. "But first, they think that he can help Chivas win Copa Libertadores. That's Jorge's objective, to win the cup no matter what. If things work out, then he would become the star of and would play for a couple of seasons with Chivas USA."
SuperDraft mock draft
The MLS SuperDraft is slated to be held later today as the next batch of rookies is set to find homes. Hopefully this rookie class provides more impact players than last year's did.
Anyway, I haven't spent nearly as much time researching the draft as some other bloggers so I shall pass on some good info to you from some of the most knowledgeable college soccer bloggers out there. From College to the Pros pieced together a mock draft and that's the one I see as the best out there.
I'll post their mock first round but please click on the link to get their full thoughts on the players and picks.
1. Seattle - Omar Gonzalez, D (Maryland)
2. Toronto - Stefan Frei, GK (Cal)
3. Galaxy - Sam Cronin, M/F (Wake Forest)
4. Toronto - Steve Zakuani, M/F (Akron)
5. FC Dallas - Peri Marosevic, D/M (Michigan)
6. DC United - Kevin Alston, D/M (Indiana)
7. DC United - Jeremy Hall, M/F (Maryland)
8. Kansas City - Rodney Wallace, M/F (Maryland)
9. Chivas USA - Chris Pontius, F (Santa Barbara)
10. New England Revolution - Ryan Maxwell, M/F (Tampa)
11. New York - Brad Ring, M (Indiana)
12. Real Salt Lake - Graham Zusi, M/F (Maryland)
13. Toronto FC - Kyle Patterson, M/F (St. Louis)
14. FC Dallas - Baggio Husidic, M (Illinois-Chicago)
15. New England Revolution - Babajide Ogunbiyi, M/F (Santa Clara)
Anyway, I haven't spent nearly as much time researching the draft as some other bloggers so I shall pass on some good info to you from some of the most knowledgeable college soccer bloggers out there. From College to the Pros pieced together a mock draft and that's the one I see as the best out there.
I'll post their mock first round but please click on the link to get their full thoughts on the players and picks.
1. Seattle - Omar Gonzalez, D (Maryland)
2. Toronto - Stefan Frei, GK (Cal)
3. Galaxy - Sam Cronin, M/F (Wake Forest)
4. Toronto - Steve Zakuani, M/F (Akron)
5. FC Dallas - Peri Marosevic, D/M (Michigan)
6. DC United - Kevin Alston, D/M (Indiana)
7. DC United - Jeremy Hall, M/F (Maryland)
8. Kansas City - Rodney Wallace, M/F (Maryland)
9. Chivas USA - Chris Pontius, F (Santa Barbara)
10. New England Revolution - Ryan Maxwell, M/F (Tampa)
11. New York - Brad Ring, M (Indiana)
12. Real Salt Lake - Graham Zusi, M/F (Maryland)
13. Toronto FC - Kyle Patterson, M/F (St. Louis)
14. FC Dallas - Baggio Husidic, M (Illinois-Chicago)
15. New England Revolution - Babajide Ogunbiyi, M/F (Santa Clara)
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Borgetti to Guadalajara
Jared Borgetti joined Chivas de Guadalajara as the club's fifth and final reinforcement ahead of the Clausura 2009 season. Borgetti joins Amaury Ponce, Carlos Ochoa, Aaron Galindo and Francisco Mendoza as the club's newest additiosn, which isn't a bad score for them.
Not sure how much Borgetti has in the tank but the club is willing to gamble on the one-time national team star.
Borgetti's former clubs include Santos, Dorados, Cruz Azul and Monterrey, and he's had varied levels of success at each stop. He probably will score a few goals for Chivas but I don't think he has the ability to play 90 minutes effectively every week. However, Borgetti doesn't exactly run a lot and defend a lot so he could probably get away with more playing time than someone else with as much mileage on them.
This move also rasies eyebrows for the potential it has in paving the way for Borgetti to join MLS. It seems if any team is close to having Borgetti join their ranks it would be Chivas USA, mostly because Guadalajara took Mendoza and gave nothing in return. I think Chivas owes their northern brethren some sort of kick back, and this may be it. I don't know if it would be the greatest move for Chivas USA but I suppose we'll cross that bridge when we get to it.
Not sure how much Borgetti has in the tank but the club is willing to gamble on the one-time national team star.
Borgetti's former clubs include Santos, Dorados, Cruz Azul and Monterrey, and he's had varied levels of success at each stop. He probably will score a few goals for Chivas but I don't think he has the ability to play 90 minutes effectively every week. However, Borgetti doesn't exactly run a lot and defend a lot so he could probably get away with more playing time than someone else with as much mileage on them.
This move also rasies eyebrows for the potential it has in paving the way for Borgetti to join MLS. It seems if any team is close to having Borgetti join their ranks it would be Chivas USA, mostly because Guadalajara took Mendoza and gave nothing in return. I think Chivas owes their northern brethren some sort of kick back, and this may be it. I don't know if it would be the greatest move for Chivas USA but I suppose we'll cross that bridge when we get to it.
Galaxy moves
Life's been busy lately so I haven't been able to post much but the Galaxy made a few interesting moves in the last couple of days. Nothing earth-shattering but moves that could affect the team going forward.
First, Director of Soccer Paul Bravo left the team and took over a similar position with Colorado. It doesn't seem like a big loss to the Galaxy. Bravo's key moves included scouting and bringing in Eduardo Dominguez, who was about as big a bust the Galaxy has had in the last several years. With Bruce Arena around running things, it seems this move was waiting to happen.
Then, shortly after that the Rapids traded a second-round draft choice to the Galaxy for the rights to Ty Harden. Interesting. It makes me wonder if Bravo has some information that would lead him to believe that Harden is ready to return to MLS. If so, Colorado paid a relatively low price for a player with upside. Although I thought Harden was overmatched at times and really lacked speed, he did have some potential. He had the body to withstand the rigors of a central defender and was a smart player, knew the game. I guess I wouldn't be surprised if Harden resurfaces with the Rapids next season.
Also, the Galaxy acquired Mike Magee from New York. The former prospect long ago became a marginal player but he did have a bit of a resurgence over the summer but strangely did not play much in the playoffs. John Wolyniec had beaten him out for playing time and since Wolyniec scored in MLS Cup 08, who are we to disagree with that decision? Still, the Galaxy are banking that Magee still has something to offer. It's difficult to pinpoint a spot for him because a lot will depend on Landon Donovan's status but Magee could challenge for playing time, possibly even a starting spot, even if Donovan returns from Bayern Munich.
First, Director of Soccer Paul Bravo left the team and took over a similar position with Colorado. It doesn't seem like a big loss to the Galaxy. Bravo's key moves included scouting and bringing in Eduardo Dominguez, who was about as big a bust the Galaxy has had in the last several years. With Bruce Arena around running things, it seems this move was waiting to happen.
Then, shortly after that the Rapids traded a second-round draft choice to the Galaxy for the rights to Ty Harden. Interesting. It makes me wonder if Bravo has some information that would lead him to believe that Harden is ready to return to MLS. If so, Colorado paid a relatively low price for a player with upside. Although I thought Harden was overmatched at times and really lacked speed, he did have some potential. He had the body to withstand the rigors of a central defender and was a smart player, knew the game. I guess I wouldn't be surprised if Harden resurfaces with the Rapids next season.
Also, the Galaxy acquired Mike Magee from New York. The former prospect long ago became a marginal player but he did have a bit of a resurgence over the summer but strangely did not play much in the playoffs. John Wolyniec had beaten him out for playing time and since Wolyniec scored in MLS Cup 08, who are we to disagree with that decision? Still, the Galaxy are banking that Magee still has something to offer. It's difficult to pinpoint a spot for him because a lot will depend on Landon Donovan's status but Magee could challenge for playing time, possibly even a starting spot, even if Donovan returns from Bayern Munich.
Cuauhtemoc to Puebla
Cuauhtemoc Blanco will play home games in a stadium that shares his name, if all the necessary paperwork goes through.
Blanco is reportedly close to joining Puebla, who plays home games in Estadio Cuauhtemoc. Blanco will reportedly join the team immediately on a short-term loan and will head back to MLS on March 15.
Puebla officials said they've discussed ways around the rule that limits players to two teams per year, as Blanco has already played for both Chicago and Santos Laguna in the last several months. Puebla is battling relegation and needs all the points they can get to stay in the top flight. If Blanco is around for only a short period of time they would likely be fine with that.
Still, for Chicago and MLS it seems this is yet another risky move. Blanco has done well to stay injury free since joining MLS and during his stints with Santos and El Tri in that span but this is a move that could put Blanco in harm's way.
If anything, though, it should make the Mexican league more interesting for both MLS and Chicago fans.
Blanco is reportedly close to joining Puebla, who plays home games in Estadio Cuauhtemoc. Blanco will reportedly join the team immediately on a short-term loan and will head back to MLS on March 15.
Puebla officials said they've discussed ways around the rule that limits players to two teams per year, as Blanco has already played for both Chicago and Santos Laguna in the last several months. Puebla is battling relegation and needs all the points they can get to stay in the top flight. If Blanco is around for only a short period of time they would likely be fine with that.
Still, for Chicago and MLS it seems this is yet another risky move. Blanco has done well to stay injury free since joining MLS and during his stints with Santos and El Tri in that span but this is a move that could put Blanco in harm's way.
If anything, though, it should make the Mexican league more interesting for both MLS and Chicago fans.
Done Deal
Francisco Mendoza is gone. Property of Guadalajara. Just got it confirmed.
I will have more later when I get home in front of a PC.
I will have more later when I get home in front of a PC.
Chivas USA update
Ante Razov had been rumored at heading to Mexican club Leon but he won't be going there or anywhere. A club source told me that Razov will stay at Chivas USA for the upcoming 2009 season.
Razov is the league's second all-time leading goal scorer and just one of four players who have played every one of MLS' first 13 seasons. He had only five goals a year ago and missed time to injury but he is still an important piece of the team's puzzle and one of the team's most valuable players.
Another player who is set to return is Raphael Wicky. The highly-touted former Swiss international spent most of his time off the field as injuries limited him to five games. But he's back and could threaten for a starting spot if healthy.
As far as Francisco Mendoza, the likelihood of him sticking around is slim and he may very well be officially out of MLS in the coming days.
Razov is the league's second all-time leading goal scorer and just one of four players who have played every one of MLS' first 13 seasons. He had only five goals a year ago and missed time to injury but he is still an important piece of the team's puzzle and one of the team's most valuable players.
Another player who is set to return is Raphael Wicky. The highly-touted former Swiss international spent most of his time off the field as injuries limited him to five games. But he's back and could threaten for a starting spot if healthy.
As far as Francisco Mendoza, the likelihood of him sticking around is slim and he may very well be officially out of MLS in the coming days.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Now, the Cup
CD Guadalajara is through to Copa Libertadores. After winning the finals on penalties, Chivas has reached Copa Libertadores directly and will advance to Group 6 of the tournament proper.
Atlas meanwhile came back from a 3-0 deficit only to crash out of the tournanement on penalties... lots of them.
Here's what the residents of Guadalajara awoke to this morning:
Chivas will make up Group 6 along with Lanus of Argentina, Everton of Chile and Caracas of Venezuela. San Luis will also participate in the tournament and will be in a group along with San Lorenzo of Argentina, Libertad of Paraguay and Universitario of Peru. Meanwhile, Pachuca, who beat Atlas, will play U de Chile in a play-in series.
Atlas meanwhile came back from a 3-0 deficit only to crash out of the tournanement on penalties... lots of them.
Here's what the residents of Guadalajara awoke to this morning:
Chivas will make up Group 6 along with Lanus of Argentina, Everton of Chile and Caracas of Venezuela. San Luis will also participate in the tournament and will be in a group along with San Lorenzo of Argentina, Libertad of Paraguay and Universitario of Peru. Meanwhile, Pachuca, who beat Atlas, will play U de Chile in a play-in series.
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