Kick Off: TFC in must-win home opener, Man City confirms U.S. tour

Preki readies his club for their 2010 home opener on BMO Field's new grass turf

The new grass at BMO Field continues to be the story in Toronto for tonight’s ESPN2 Thursday Game of the Week (7 p.m. ET).


It’s a must-win game for Toronto FC against the expansion Philadelphia Union. Even Toronto’s mayor is piling the pressure on Preki and company.


With rumors of winger Robert Pires potentially joining the Union as their first DP, the left midfield spot is currently held by teenage Colombian Roger Torres, who has impressed thus far. Meanwhile, Toronto FC is still on the hunt for two players in particular.


April 15 is not just d-day for taxes, but it also marks the MLS international transfer deadline. One name that’s been in the news recently could be made official by Seattle.


Here’s hoping the TFC vs. Philly battle tonight is anything as good as what took place in San Jose’s 3-3 tie with Real Salt Lake in the U.S. Open Cup. Penalty kicks decided this one.


RSL next travel to face the LA Galaxy and the league’s top scorer, Edson Buddle, who reveals the secrets to his success.


Another forward, Sunil Chhetri, made his debut for the Kansas City Wizards in Tuesday’s Open Cup loss and there is video to prove it.


Speaking of the Wizards, there is word from Oneonta about KC’s plans for a Soccer Hall of Fame as part of their new stadium opening in 2011.


Following yesterday’s report of a denial, the work permit saga of RBNY target Luke Rodgers may still be undetermined.


Although there may be one or two things lost in translation, Red Bulls boss Hans Backe gives a revealing interview to a Swedish media outlet.


The World Cup media machine is already revving up with Landon Donovan involved in a taping of an ESPN series which takes him to his hometown.


Donovan gives his candidates for the forward position on the U.S. World Cup team: one is predictable and another is a surprise. More World Cup and Beckham talk from Donovan courtesy of Sky Sports.


Speaking of potential U.S. National Team candidates, Chris Rolfe was the highlight of the Wednesday action involving Americans overseas. Ex-RSL forward Yura Movsisyan also scored two goals for Randers in Denmark.


Ahead of the World Cup, ESPN has had to respond to JP Dellacamera’s move from television commentary to radio.


Even with a cousin in the NFL, this MLS player still picked soccer over American football.


With the derby between Manchester City and Manchester United looming this weekend, Manchester City has already beaten its crosstown rivals by making its summer tour of the United States official.


The Montreal Impact, long rumored to be a future MLS expansion club, are going Italian with their summer international exhibition series.


Another Canadian club, 2011 expansion club Vancouver Whitecaps, feel they are capable of drawing crowds that are as good as Seattle’s and Toronto’s.


Before the MLS Thursday Game of the Week tilt on ESPN2 tonight, Real Madrid look to stay in the race for La Liga with a trip to Almería (2 p.m. ET, GolTV).


While Barcelona and Marseille moved closer to league titles in Spain and France on Wednesday, Tottenham debutant Danny Rose stole the show in England with a spectacular volley as Spurs defeated Arsenal 2-1. The London derby loss quashes any real title hopes for Arsene Wenger’s men. Chelsea are up next for Tottenham on the weekend.


Rapids owner Stan Kroenke may still be in Arsenal’s future despite his intention of also owning the St. Louis Rams of the NFL.


The shock result in Mexico was provided once again by relegated Indios, who defeated Chivas Guadalajara missing several of their first-team players due to World Cup camp. In a CONCACAF Champions League final preview, Cruz Azul and Pachuca tied 2-2, while Mexico City giants América and Pumas finished in a scoreless tie.


Ronaldo’s Brazilian club, Corinthians, advanced from the group stage of the Copa Libertadores in the headline news from South America’s top club tournament. Tonight’s matchups of Lanus vs. Universitario (6:30 p.m. ET) and Colo Colo vs. Cruzeiro (8:30 p.m. ET) represent do-or-die matches for the home clubs (Fox Sports en Español).