One is an experienced veteran and virtual legend in his home country while the other is still in the early stages of his career and hoping for just one chance to show what he can do at the international level.
But for Juan Toja and Juan Pablo Angel, the two Colombians will be sharing the same field as starters for the MLS All-Stars when they take on Celtic FC.
Toja certainly knew about Angel before they both arrived in the Rocky Mountains. Angel, though, could be forgiven for not knowing much about his younger, longer-haired countryman.
"I knew a bit about him," conceded Angel when asked about his familiarity with the FC Dallas midfielder, who is set to start on the left wing in Steve Nicol's side. "(I knew) that he went and played at River Plate where I went and had a good time. I am getting to know more about him right now because he's playing here and he's doing really well."
Indeed, the 22-year-old has been a revelation for the Hoops this season, scoring six goals (including three game-winners) in 18 matches to lead the team. Meanwhile in New York, Angel is already being lauded as perhaps the greatest offensive acquisition in Major League Soccer's history. While those claims are probably still a bit premature, there's no denying the designated player's impact. In just 11 games, Angel has hit the target nine times and set up teammates on two other occasions.
For Toja, the chance to play with such a well-known and beloved Colombian player is a dream come true.
"I followed him on the national team and also when he played for River Plate, where he was a hero," said Toja, an ex-River man himself. "Having him as a teammate is very satisfying both as a player and as a Colombian."
So though each has taken a completely different path, the Colombian pair has arrived in the Rocky Mountains to take part in a decidedly U.S.-style game, as most soccer leagues around the world don't have All-Star competitions.
"In every sport in the United States they have this event and soccer has it as well. For me it's a positive thing because the league's best players over the past six months have been selected. It's an American thing, but you just need to have fun, take advantage of it and have a good time," said Toja.
"It's a unique experience for me. I didn't even know about it until I was told by the league that I was going to be involved in the All-Star Game," added Angel. "But I think it's a great opportunity as well just to be involved with some of the top players in the league and get to know them in a different environment and play alongside them. So I think it's going to be good fun for everyone and it's going to be a tough game. There's no such thing as a friendly game."
Angel should know. He has played in 33 matches for Colombia's national team, some friendlies and some competitive matches. Toja, though, is still looking to work his way into the Colombian national team picture, though he can now feel confident in having at least one veteran who believes in his abilities and sees real potential in his game.
"Juan is doing great and it's great for him and it's great for the country because we need players like him," Angel said of Toja. "He's still a young lad and he's doing extremely well in this league and I think the national team coach should look up to him and give him a chance because he fully deserves it."
With Colombia's recent disappointing showing at Copa America, Toja may just get his chance.
"You're always hopeful that you can play for your county," Toja said. "I'm patriotic and I love representing my country. For me, it would be an honor to play for my national team but that depends on the federation and the head coach. It's a shame what happened in the Copa America, but there's time to work hard and the most important thing is qualifying for the next World Cup. If I'm needed, I'm always ready to contribute."
Perhaps by the end of the week Toja can convince his new pal Angel to place a few calls and put in a good word for him.
Jonathan Nierman is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs. Contributing: Juan Mesa of FutbolMLS.com
