The following quotes are excerpted from Tuesday's media teleconference call and were translated from Spanish by MLS Communications.
Opening thoughts on Thursday's game
Guillermo Barros Schelotto (Columbus Crew):
"It's going to be a great game beyond just the presence of Marcelo and myself. I think these are two very solid teams that are going to face each other, and it should provide a good show. In addition, on their side (D.C. United) there is Marcelo who played for River, and on Columbus there is me, who played for Boca. What's fundamental is that it be an entertaining match for the fans."
Marcelo Gallardo (D.C. United):
"Its great to play a game like this. Above all, with the season just starting we need to play a good game. It's also good to have representation from Boca and River, from Argentina. It's very positive that you have two players that have been in the most historic teams from Argentina, and I'm privileged to be part of the history of River and to be here with Guillermo because of all he achieved with Boca. It will be a beautiful game to play in, and I'll tell you right now, Guillermo, you're going to have a tough time."
Differences between MLS and other leagues
Schelotto:
"I think the difference between MLS and other leagues is just that MLS has more limited experience, but the positive thing is that the League is getting better and evolving. Some of the strengths of the league are the organization, the training, the fields which are of the highest world standard, and because of all of this, with time it will be one of the most important leagues in world soccer."
Gallardo:
"I believe MLS will continue to get better and grow as the years go on. It seems to me that it's really working to be competitive, based on the short time that I've been here in the United States. Obviously, it's different from other leagues I've played in that have existed for decades, like Argentina. But in terms of MLS growth, I see a bright future."
Difference in stadium atmosphere
Schelotto:
"It's hard to compare to the fans in Argentina, where the games are experienced with more passion that perhaps anywhere else in the world. But I have seen a huge growth in the fan base of MLS. I'm also noticing that there is lot stronger interest from people in soccer compared to just one year again, and much more people coming out to support the sport. I've seen the development up close, and in time the League will become one of the best in the world."
Personal relationship:
Schelotto:
"I've always gotten along well with Marcelo because we shared the experience of being in the under-23 national team in '95, with [Daniel] Pasarella as the coach. We became good friends then and have always had a good relationship since. Even on the field when I was playing for Boca and he for River, we always had a good bond, including the preseason with Columbus and D.C. United."
Gallardo:
"I always get asked about Guilermo, and I've always said that he is a guy that plays and lives the games to the highest degree. But to know him as a person has allowed me to see him in a different way. We were together on the national team and we got to know each other, developing a mutual respect."
