America Wins 3rd Clásico in a row, Will Meet Pachuca in Finals

By: John | May 21st, 2007

Another grueling week for America, another obstacle overcome. After a goalless draw vs. Santos with mostly reserves on Wednesday, America defeated Chivas twice in 3 days. Two 1-0 wins were enough to clinch yet another finals birth for one of Mexico’s most celebrated teams.

America’s defense, who have been known to be pourous more often than not, locked up Mexican footie’s potent attack #2 for 180 scoreless minutes. Much of the credit should go to goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa, who is very quickly fulfilling that most fickle of attributes: potential. Ochoa made several stunning saves in both games as he helped quell the lethal trio of chivas attackers: Bofo, Medina and Bravo.

As for Chivas, they can point to the moement when Gonzalo Pineda was red carded for a brutal tackle and elbow. He did himself no favors by making bribery gestures as he walked off the pitch. That wallet that you were emptying, there, Gonzo. It is going to be yours after you pay your fine. Even with 10 men, Chivas tried to crack America’s defense for the one goal they needed to advance, but it was an America defender, Ismael Rodriguez, who ended all hopes of back to back titles as he knocked in his own rebound after receiving a cheeky back heel from Salvador Cabañas. “The most important goal I have ever scored.” He said later.

Despite a good campaign, being eliminated by your arch rival is not the way chivas wanted to end the season. And outspoken Chivas owner, Jorge Vergara, let it be known that he was not happy with the result, above all because of the lack of attitude from his 3 attckers. “We have the fastest front line in Mexico, and for them not to get 1 goal in 180 minutes. Come on!” He says no one, not even the national team members are safe from the upcoming purge. Stay tuned.

But for America, life goes on. This week’s set of grueling matches starts in Brazil, as America is en route to play Santos on Wednesday. Then they are back home at the Azteca to take on potent attack #1, Pachuca. The second leg will be played 48 hours later in la bella airosa. So that makes it 6 huge games in a span of 11 days. Good luck, America.