It was a rough week in the CCL for MLS clubs as none of the league's four remaining teams managed to knock off their Mexican opponents in the first leg of the quarterfinals. In total, the four MLS teams managed just two goals (both by Clint Dempsey) en route to two 2-0 losses and two home draws. Now, with backs to the wall, all four teams essentially face must-win games this week if any MLS club is to reach the semifinals. Here's a quick look at each team's needs ahead of their second leg match:
LA Galaxy - Arguably in the best shape of any of the four MLS teams, the Galaxy did not concede an away goal in their 0-0 home draw with Santos Laguna which means they can advance with a 1-1 draw or better.
Seattle Sounders - Seattle blew a pair of leads against América at home and because they conceded two away goals, likely will need a win when they travel to Estadio Azteca. A high scoring draw (2-2 or better) could also be enough to send the Sounders through.
DC United - United held Querétaro scoreless for 70 minutes before conceding twice late in the match. United forced keeper Tiago Volpi into making nine saves, but couldn't get on the scoresheet, and now need a shutout win of 2-0 or better, or they need to win by at least three goals.
Real Salt Lake - Like DC United, RSL went nearly 70 minutes without conceding, and allowed an 86th minute insurance goal to put them in a 2-0 hole against Tigres as they head home. RSL will also need a shutout win of 2-0 or better, or they need to win by at least three goals.
American Exports in CCL Action
Luis Gil - Querétaro - Not eligible, cup tied to Real Salt Lake
Jonathan Bornstein - Querétaro, 90 mins, 3 shots
Luis Silva - Tigres UANL - Not eligible, cup-tied to Real Salt Lake
José Francisco Torres - Tigres UANL - Dressed, but did not play
Ventura Alvarado - Club América - Dressed, but did not play
Jorge Villafaña - Santos Laguna - 90 mins
Upcoming Schedule
3/1 5:00pm PST - DC United vs Querétaro
3/1 7:00 pm PST - Santos Laguna vs LA Galaxy
3/2 5:00 pm PST - Club América vs Seattle Sounders
3/2 7:00 pm PST - Real Salt Lake vs Tigers UANL
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