GUADALAJARA, Mexico – Both US internationals still involved in the Liga MX playoffs face tough tasks this weekend if they are to make the semifinals.
Jose Torres (above) and his Tigres UANL side go into Saturday’s game against crosstown rivals Monterrey down 1-0, with the return leg at Tigres’ Estadio Universitario (8 pm ET, UniMas).
Torres was taken off after just 30 minutes in the first leg for tactical reasons, putting his starting spot in the second in doubt despite the Texan midfielder having been a regular starter all season.
On Sunday, Herculez Gomez and Santos Laguna travel to Guadalajara to face Atlas (9 pm ET, Univision Deportes) following Thursday’s 0-0 draw in the first leg.
Gomez was a late substitute in the opening game and, with los Guerreros needing away goals to advance, could be in line for more playing time on Sunday, especially with Santos’ wasteful finishing on Thursday.
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In Costa Rica, Moises Hernandez continues his quest to lift the title with Saprissa, who have to navigate their semifinal second leg against Cartaginés on Sunday if they are to reach the final (7 pm ET). Saprissa were held to a 1-1 draw at home in the Thursday’s first leg.
Down in Brazil, Freddy Adu hasn’t been getting regular minutes yet for Bahia, but he’ll be hopeful to find some rhythm at home against Vitória in the final of the Campeonato Baiano on Sunday (3 pm ET), ahead of the start of the Serie A season later this month.
Tom Marshall covers Americans playing in Latin America for MLSsoccer.com. Contact him at tom.marshall.mex@gmail.com.
