postponed last night due to power outages in the area -- is ever marked in the books, the Dynamo can switch their focus back to SuperLiga, as the team will host CF Pachuca in the tournament's semifinals next Tuesday, July 29, at Robertson Stadium.
While the continuous cross-over can be puzzling, the tournament gives the Dynamo a precious opportunity to compete against notable international teams, bolster the MLS reputation across other borders and ultimately strengthen the Dynamo for league competition. Waibel believes that the break from league play provides the team a unique edge during the MLS season.
"At the beginning of SuperLiga, I said SuperLiga could be great for us because it could take the pressure from MLS games off a little bit, and I think it's done exactly that," Waibel said. "It's given us a little break mentally. Now we get a little pressure back in league play and we get some pressure against Pachuca."
Potentially a disruption for some clubs, the heightened pressure of the tournament has motivated the Dynamo, who scored seven goals in three SuperLiga contests. Entering the event, the offense had not seen as much success, totaling only seven goals in seven league matches from May 28-July 3.
Tonight, the team will learn whether or not the inspiration will carry into MLS competition, with the D.C. United league match sandwiched between SuperLiga contests. Each of the ensuing contests is of equal worth to the Dynamo, who hope to contend for every championship, be it during league or international play.
"The importance is the exact same - any time your club has a chance to raise a trophy, you have to have the desire to win it," Waibel said. "You can't approach any opportunity to win a championship with any casualty."
The Dynamo are doing just that in SuperLiga, potentially reaching their first international final with a win over Pachuca. If the approach remains the same, the Dynamo could add another piece of hardware to an already impressive trophy case.
