GUADALAJARA, Mexico – It was a disappointing night for Americans in the Copa MX, with no presence likely in the semifinal stage after second-division clubs won all four quarterfinals against Liga MX opposition.
Greg Garza and Joe Corona both started for Club Tijuana in its epic penalty loss against Correcaminos. Xolos were 4-1 up with an hour gone and looked to be sailing into the semis, but contrived to tie the game 5-5 before going out on penalties.
Corona set up Tijuana’s second in the 30th minute with an intuitive first-time pass from inside his own half that put Fidel Martínez clean through on goal.
The US international also stepped up for Tijuana’s first penalty and coolly slotted the ball straight down the middle and into the net.
Garza went 60 minutes and came off with the tie seemingly done and dusted. He attacked incisively down the left, winning a number of fouls and looking solid in defense. When he made way, however, there was a notable increase in dangerous attacks coming down that flank and Xolos leaked four goals.
Also Wednesday, Jose Torres’ Pachuca fell on penalties to Neza FC following the 1-1 score after 90 minutes (there is no extra time in the Copa MX). Torres played a vital role in Pachuca’s Cup run, captaining the team on two occasions, but was not involved in the quarterfinal.
On Tuesday evening in the Copa MX, Michael Orozco Fiscal’s San Luis lost 3-2 at Dorados de Sinaloa. Orozco Fiscal was at fault for Dorados’ first as his back pass got held up by one of the many puddles pervading the field, allowing Cuauhtémoc Blanco in to set up an easy finish for Daley Mena.
Finally, in the CONCACAF Champions League, Jesús Padilla continues to rack up playing time for Chivas and went 86 minutes on Wednesday in their lackluster 1-1 display against Trindad and Tobago’s W Connection.
Tom Marshall covers Americans playing in Latin America for MLSsoccer.com. E-mail him at tom.marshall.mex@gmail.com.
