DC and KC represent MLS in Champions' Cup

Rover · 03-09-2005, 10:49 AM

Just a reminder that DC and KC play the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions' Cup Quarterfinals this afternoon/evening. As far as I know, they'll be broadcast on FSC:

DC v Harbour View (JAM) at 5:30 p.m. MT
KC v Deportivo Saprissa (CRC) at 7:30 p.m. MT

The full bracket is here:

http://www.concacaf.com/competitions/match3.asp?id=1&year=2005

I'd say Pumas are the favorite at this point, and of the MLS teams I'd pick KC, although they have the tougher quarterfinal opponent. I think DC lost too much leadership wihen Ryan Nelsen and Earnie Stewart headed to Europe.

Nobody pretends that the Champions' Cup is anything near the Champions League in team quality or prestige, and it has a shaky history. But it is our regional club championship, and that means something. Jerry Trecker says it better than I can:

http://www.mlsnet.com/MLS/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20050307&content_id=23587&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp

Should be interesting. DC won it once, as did the Galaxy.

SoccerPrime · 03-09-2005, 11:17 AM

I have a feeling that both KC and DC get slammed.
Don't know why.

Rover · 03-09-2005, 11:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoccerPrime

I have a feeling that both KC and DC get slammed.
Don't know why.

I think I can give you some reasons for your skepticism.

1. MLS has bombed out of this tournament more often than not, so history is not on our side.

2. The competition from Mexican clubs and Saprissa is tough, and tougher at their places.

3. The timing isn't good, with MLS clubs not in season yet, but playing clubs that are in much better form.

4. DC has been depleted of leadership by player moves, and KC just never seems to be competent in the attack.

But I wish them well, since they represent the league.