retired_roxysunny101

January 2004

Having two Championships is certainly a novelty unique to this general part of the World, and it certainly does have it’s charms; one of those charms is the fact that you get two opening days every season. For the Opening day of the Closing Stage Championship we are currently drifting across the city of Guadalajara towards the Estadio Jalisco, as América (MEX) prepare to kick-off their campaign to capture a first Mexican Championship since 2001 away to Atlas.

It would be a fair observation to say that there is not quite the same hype in Guadalajara today as there was in Mexico City when these side met in the first match of the Opening Stage nigh-on 6 months ago. That is perhaps due to the withered expectations of the natives after Atlas finished the Opening Stage in 15th position in the overall league, and bottom of their Group.

Nevertheless, as we drift down into the Estadio Jalisco we can see that there is not a bad crowd present - perhaps around 20,000 - and they are succeeding in creating an enclosed, aggressive atmosphere, which Zander Zitero’s side will have to cope with if they are to head back to the Nations capital with all 3 points in the bag.

Whether or not there is tension in the air around Guadalaraja is an arguable point; whether or not there is tension in the respective dressing rooms is not an arguable point. The first game of the Championship’s magnitude is not lost on any of the professionals residing in the adjacent changing rooms. Atlas manager Sergio Bueno - you would imagine - will have the tougher task, as, with not so many big time players in his team, he will have to guide some of the more inexperienced players up to kick-off time, and then hope they produce in the cauldron to follow. He will be looking to players like Peruvian God Roberto Palacios, and talented keeper José de Jesús Corona - who, you might remember, made a howler at the Azteca on the Opening day of the Opening Stage - to have big performances.

The inhabitants of the away dressing room are mostly well known to us after following Zitero‘s side throughout the Opening Stage Championship, so as we drift around the dressing room and see names like de la Cuesta, Castro, Pardo, Blanco, and Mendoza about to go out and strut their stuff we know exactly what we are getting, and we can safely assume that they should not be overawed. Despite the absences of players like Navia and Encarnación and Rojas, América (MEX)’s new Number 3 and Number 9: Wederson and Antonio de Nigris will no doubt be looking to make a big impact on their competitive debut, and, along with the other 9 players stalking their way down the tunnel, looking for an away win.


10/1/04

(Mexican First Division, Closing Stage, Match #1) / Atlas Vs América (MEX) / Estadio Jalisco, Guadalajara

América (MEX): GK - Becerra, DL - Wederson, DR - Castro, DC - Salinas, DC - de la Cuesta; DMC - Pardo (c), ML - Mendoza, MR - Azuara, AMC - Blanco; SC - de Nigris, SC - Romário

The match kicked off to a massive roar from the 20,000 crowd inside the Estadio Jalisco, and the noise increased when, after only 2 minutes, José Julián de la Cuesta was booked for going right through the back of Rodrigo Valenzuela on the edge of the box. Luckily for the Colombian stopper the free kick was blazed over by Palacios and no harm came his early indiscretion.

De La Cuesta was certainly in amongst the action early on, as the young defender had the first real chance to break the deadlock on ten minutes, when an Azuara (in ahead of Esteche) corner found the head of De Nigris, his header was blocked but caused something of a scramble in the danger area, and when the ball fell to De La Cuesta he blazed wide from no more than 6 yards out.

Atlas nearly found themselves in the lead against the run of play after 20 minutes when a Palacios corner was headed goal ward by Valenzuela, it had Becerra beaten, but Azuara went along way to justifying his selection by heading the ball off the line and keeping the scores level.

As the half progressed América (MEX) were visibly the better side, playing some good football, and using the flanks well, with Chuy Mendoza and Juan Manuel Azuara arguably the best players on the park. However, Zander Zitero knew as well as anybody that all this dominance would count for nothing if they don’t get on the score sheet; and in all honesty despite 84 caps for Brazil, Romário was the lead role in an amazing display of missed chances before half time, with a couple of superb backing performers, most notably Cuauhtémoc Blanco; as the midfield supplied chance after chance for the forwards and they’re efforts were all presents for Corona or fired high and wide.

This undoubtedly good performance would be quickly forgotten if América (MEX) could not push forward and get a goal; and to serve this purpose Romário was hooked in favour of young Christian Zepeda (oh, to have Jair Garcia and Diego Encarnación fit) in the hope he could grab a goal.

América (MEX) continued to push forward into the second half, although chances were not forthcoming early on; hope in the América (MEX) camp was that the men in yellow could just grab a goal however scrappy, and scuttle back to Mexico City. And on the hour mark América (MEX) got a corner and got the big guys up in search of that goal from Mendoza’s delivery. In the end the delivery was poor and Corona claimed easily. Corona then saw an opportunity to counter attack and launched the ball up field to Carlos Maria Morales; he drove at the slightly panicky and disjointed retreating América (MEX) defence before slipping a ball into Alberto Esquivel, he was not picked up at all as the defence streamed back from the corner kick, and the Mexican Under-21 internationalist left winger who had only been on the park for 90 seconds smashed the ball past Becerra from the left hand side of the box to give Atlas an indescribably undeserved lead.

Even with half an hour left there was a sense of dejection amongst the away players, they had passed up enough chances to win three football matches, and when they did strike a clean one on target it found José de Jesús Corona in inspired form between the sticks.

Still América (MEX) fought away for the remaining time in desperate search of an equaliser, a couple of efforts here, a Blanco header there, a de Nigris volley saved; all amounting to a 19 shots tally, with 12 on target; but in the end all amounting to nothing.

Atlas (Esquivel 62) 1 - 0 América (MEX)


It would be extremely uninformative to tell you that the mood amongst the América (MEX) players come full time was that of disappointment, as, I presume, you would have guessed that yourselves given the fact América (MEX) were so dominant yet came away with nothing from the game.

Despite the good overall performance a 1-0 defeat is certainly not how Zander Zitero would have wanted to start this campaign but he must now cope, and plan, in the aftermath of it, because América (MEX) have a hectic campaign ahead of them and there will be no time to sulk as they do battle in the League, the CONCACAF Champions Cup and - as we shall see drawn next - the Copa Libertadores.

retired_brinker317

Excellent :thup:

retired_roxysunny101

January 2004

Copa Libertadores 2004 Draw

Lut us take just a moment to gather our composure, for we are truly in elevated company. As we drift around this massive hall we can see many faces: River Plate manager and reigning South American manager of the year Ramón Diaz; there is Boca Juniors manager Miguel Angel Brindisi; as we drift yet further we see the figure of the Santos FC manager Emérson Leao; a few seats along from him is the manager of fellow Brazilian behemoths Sao Paulo, Vanderley Luxemburgo.

In fact, if you are the manager of a team that are participating in the 2004 Toyota Copa Libertadores then you are in this hall. About time, ffter much searching around this gaping room we finally find Zander Zitero, just along from América de Cali manager Fernano Castro Lozada and a couple of rows down from the Cruzeiro manager Oswaldo de Oliveira. We can see that Zander Zitero has a booklet resting on his lap, that booklet has actually been head scout Alejandro Palacios’ life for the past few months, as he has travelled round many countries filing reports on all América (MEX)’s potential opponents in the 2004 Copa Libertadores; at least Zander will immediately know with one look at that booklet what he’s up against when América (MEX)’s name come out whoever are the other 3 teams in the group.

América (MEX) would know exactly what they face iminantly, as two rather robust, sweaty South American dignitaries alongside, presumably, the head of the South American Federation were making there way out onto the platform to conduct the draw

‘Oooh!’, was Zander Zitero’s initial reaction as Group A drew to a conclusion, as it is something of a group of death with 3 top teams, as it pits Brazilian giants Cruzeiro and Sao Paulo in the same group, alongside 2002 winners Olimpia of Paraguay, as well as expected whipping boys Oriente Petrolero of Bolivia.

On first glance Group B looks like it will be quite a close call, with most of the teams seemingly well matched. You would presume, due to pedigree, and the league they play in that Atletico Miniero of Brazil would be favourites, but Colo Colo, Danubio and Sporting Cristal of Chile, Uruguay and Peru respectively, all giants in their own borders, will no doubt all fancy their chances of progressing.

With Zander Zitero still sitting, perched on his seat, Group C failed to encapsulate América (MEX) either. Instead it delivered another very close group in which any team of the four could progress. Despite living in the shadows of Boca and River Plate, Independiente will have to be watched in this tournament as they possess a very able squad, but first they will have to hurdle three very capable sides in the form of América de Cali of Colombia, Allianz Lima of Peru, and Libertad of Paraguay in what promises to be a thoroughly competitive group.

It is perhaps a little presumptious, but one can’t help but make a little gasp of hope when a Bolivian team are drawn into a group, but it was not to be for Zander Zitero as Bolivar were drawn alongside Central of Argentina, Cerro Porteno of Paraguay and Uruguayan super power Penarol

The moment that Zander Zitero had been waiting for - in truth, since he took over - finally came, as América (MEX)’s name emerged from the bowl and was placed into Group E.

‘E’ could be for Euthanasia when Zander Zitero thinks of the fate that could await his side against the team your eyes can’t help being drawn towards, River Plate of - as if I have to tell you - Argentina. This is one team the Zander Zitero does not need to consult his notes about, but nevertheless he does: Opening Stage Champions this season by one point ahead of Banfield; Key Player: Fernando Cavanaghi (SC) (20 Apps / 15 Gls); preferred formation 3-4-1-2.

After you get over the initial and considerable shock of the prospect of a trip to the ‘Monumental’, and even a home game against the superstars of River Plate, you can get around to looking at the other teams in the group, who make you feel slightly more comfortable about the prospects of qualifying. First up is Caracas of Venezuela, and without wishing to be blasé, those three words should breed confidence. Zander Zitero, not wanting to get an air of confidence without, first, having a basic knowledge of Caracas, checks his scouts handywork again: Giants in the context of an extremely small pond in Venezuela, it is hard to tell how they will adapt to a whole different level of competition, but with a real dirth of attacking quality (no strikers valued at above £50,000) they may struggle; Key Player: Miguel Angel Mea Vitali (DMC) (Good at what he does, Venezuelan regular with a breathtaking 44 caps and he is only 22); Preffered formation: 4-4-2

Making up the group is Emelec of Ecuador, another side who are considered small fries in Copa Libertadores football, but Zander Zitero was not getting too excied without flicking to page 4, called ‘Others‘: Potential banana skins for whoever they encounter due to the fact they are perenial underdogs, they also benefit from having forwards with raw, unchecked (hence occasionally enigmatic) talent and bags of pace; Key Player: Diego Bustos (AML) (This lightening winger Played 18 games for Nantes in season 99/00, other than that he has had a productive career in Argentina, now looking to create some havoc and some shocks with Emelec); Preffered formation: N/A

With his politeness gene taking over Zander Zitero stayed until the end of the draw, although paying no attention to: Group F: Once Caldas (Col), Sao Caetano (Bra), Universidad Católica (Chi), Universitario (Per); Group G: Barcelona (Ecu), Boca Juniors (Arg), Nacional (Uru), The Strongest (Bol); Group H: Cobreloa (Chi), Deprtivo Cali (Col), Deportivo ItalChacao (Ven), Flamengo (Bra) ;Group I: Tigres (MEX), Vélez Sarsfield (Arg), Maracaibo (Ven), El Nacional (Ecu).

On the way out of the hall where América (MEX)’s group, and that 35 other teams, had been drawn, Zander Zitero made a little idle chit-chat with Tigres boss Nery Pumpido; it was polite and civilised but Zander’s mind was elsewhere as he stared into middle distance while making small talk, and Nery Pumpido knew it and left him with his thoughts. The group was now burned into his brain:

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 1st | | América (MEX) | | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 2nd | | Caracas | | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 3rd | | Emelec | | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 4th | | River | | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|</pre>

Despite having the ultimate goal in management brought to the forefront of his mind for today, he will have to tuck it back into the peripheries until the 11th of Febuary, as he heads back to Mexico City to try and get this Closing Stage Cahmpionship campaign back on course.

retired_jdupont

You got a nice group (even though River is very strong). Hopefully you'll eitehr win this group or finish among the Top 5 second placed teams.

retired_liew wai kheng

Great story. Shame you picked out River, but I guess it will make for great journalism

retired_roxysunny101

*displaced_seagull: Not sure whether you’re ‘excellent’ was referring to the Story or the Panel’s choice; either way it is a high compliment from an esteemed member such as yourself, so thank you.

*PMLF: Yes, the group isn’t too bad, but with so many matches ahead I think lack of depth and, hence, player fatigue may be an issue, so I’m not getting too confident.

*abu645: I don’t particularly enjoy writing about getting hammered ; but I’ll try to make it as entertaining as possible

January 2004

There is most definitely tension in the air in the Azteca tonight as América (MEX) prepare to face a team that won their first match of the Closing stage 5-0 - Veracruz. As we drift around the stadium, awashed with fans sporting their América (MEX) colours, and also sporting furrowed brows, we hear talk of the disappointing defeat at Atlas, we hear talk of a tough draw against River Plate, we hear talk of a misfiring £1.7M Antonio de Nigris; these fans need a good win tonight, or they shall be labouring home with many-a worry on their shoulders.

Tension is also present in the home dressing room minutes prior to kick-off, with the players just as aware of the importantance of this match as the paying public are. The afore mentioned Antonio de Nigris will once again start up front, he, along with Romário and Blanco, was somewhat wasteful with chances in Guadalajara and will be looking to make amends. He will be partnered by Reinaldo Navia, who returns from suspension. Until Mauricio Alejandro Molina arrives in June there is a real confusion over who is Zander Zitero’s first choice right sided midfielder, with Esteche coming in from the start here, ahead of Azuara who looked quite dangerous against Atlas.

As kick-off approaches in the Azteca the dressing room door suddenly seems paper thin, and the red hot atmosphere seeps through and the butterflies deploy; and at this moment Zander Zitero gives final instructions to the players that must get this Mexican Closing Stage Championship back on track; the Copa Libertadores seems oh so far away now.


18/1/04

(Mexican First Division, Closing Stage, Match #2)/ América (MEX) Vs Veracruz / Estadio Azteca, Mexico City

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">| Pos | Grp | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 1st | 1st | Veracruz | | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 | +5 | 3 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 15th | 4th | América (MEX) | | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | -1 | 0 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|</pre>

America (Mex): (4-1-2-1-2) GK - Becerra, DL - Wederson, DR - Castro, DC - de la Cuesta, DC - Rojas; DMC - Pardo (c), ML - Mendoza, MR - Esteche, AMC - Blanco; SC - Navia, SC - de Nigris

Despite being top of the league after one game Veracruz are a club with modest ambitions, and do not expect to make any waves amongst the big boys too often. This was evident as Veracruz, belying their temporary position at the top spot, dug a trench on the edge of their own box from the first whistle.

This invited pressure, and América (MEX) obliged, launching several attacks early on, the most notable of which coming from a Chuy Mendoza cross which was headed towards goal by Navia, forcing a sharp plunging save from the Veracruz keeper Damián Grosso.

This, however, was only a temporary reprieve as the home side made finally their pressure count after a quarter of an hour. It came through a nice piece of intricate football between Pardo, de Nigris and Blanco. Pavel Pardo found Antonio de Nigris on the edge of the area, the Mexican striker, doing well to hold up the ball, then fashioned a lovely through ball to the on-rushing Blanco who carried the ball into the box and slid a calm finish into the bottom corner, giving América (MEX) a well deserved lead.

Evidentially the Veracruz coach, Daniel Guzmán’s plan to dig in and keep the scores level early on had failed spectacularly and they were now in big trouble. Naturally América (MEX) persisted with the pressure in the hope of finishing of this match in double quick time. This was arguably achieved 10 minutes later when Zander Zitero’s side doubled their advantage; it came through competitive home debutant Antonio de Nigris; as after some lax marking by the Veracruz defence, which was in visible disarray, he was played through by the immense Cuauhtémoc Blanco, and, bearing down on goal, Zander Zitero’s most expensive recruit opened his account by slamming the ball past Damián Grosso.

This pattern continued through the first half, with Veracruz really showing no ambition and América (MEX) creating the real goal scoring chances; in fact, just before the half time whistle América (MEX) should have been 3-0 up when a Wederson corner implausibly found it’s way to the feet of Ricardo Rojas about 3 yards out, but the ball stuck between his big centre-back feet and when the shot finally came in there were enough bodies on the line to block it.

Interestingly, Juan Manuel Azuara emerged from the dressing room in place of Esteche for the second half. However, it was the same dominant América (MEX) that emerged, as they continued to dominate a Veracruz side who looked like they had ran out of ideas the moment Cuauhtémoc Blanco slid in the opener.

Chances were presented to Pavel Pardo, Navia, and de la Cuesta and were passed up as if they had learned nothing from their excursion to Guadalajara. The fans certainly remembered, and learned, and there was a fear that as the half progressed Veracruz may come back in to the game and they would be left rueing missed chances; to the public at the Azteca 2-0 was not a safe lead.

To the delight of the tense public their fears were allayed just over ten minutes from the end when the stamp of unassailability was put on the result. The goal came through the undoubted man of the match, Cuauhtémoc Blanco; in the first half of the season he was enigmatic and even instructed his agent to look for a more suitable club to join, but today it was all about the football, and as Blanco arrived late in the box to head in an Azuara cross it was the perfect end to a match in which we had seen the 47 times capped Mexican at his most exhilarating, magical best.

América (MEX) (Blanco 15, 79; de Nigris 25) 3 - 0 Veracruz


Again, as with the minutes prior to kick-off, the mood in the stadium mirrors that of the home dressing room - relief. Even this early on in the season this was a must win match with Zander Zitero and the América (MEX) fans harbouring desires to bring the Championship back home to the Azteca.

Now, with a massive weight off their shoulders, the América (MEX) squad and staff can knuckle down and get a whole week of solid training under their belts without having to worry about travelling, as their next game sees them staying in the Azteca, welcoming fellow Mexican Copa Libertadores participants Tigres in what promises to be a considerably more challenging match than this was.

retired_roxysunny101

January 2004

As we drift through the air of the home dressing room we can note that the tension in the air is not quite as thick as it was 7 days ago when we could have buttered toast with it. This is evidence of how important the win against Veracruz was for all the players at América (MEX), however, today’s match against - the much more complete side than Veracruz - Tigres is also important, with América (MEX) still only inhabiting mid table overall and 2nd place behind top-of-the-table Santos Laguna in their group. Hence, in the mind of the man furiously scribbling instructions on the blackboard this match against co-Libertadores combatants Tigres is just as important as the first points on the board gained against Veracruz.

Can we take a moment to reflect on the week gone by at América (MEX)? I know we want to focus on the Tigres’ match, but it has been a peculiar week at the Azteca. First of all, Ricardo Rojas received Mexican citizenship this week, which will be good for the Chilean’s long term future at América (MEX), because a squad rotation foreigner (e.g Oviedo) tends to be sold, whereas squad rotation Mexicans are good to have for depth.

Also, if we were not merely a disembodied spirit, we could log onto Zander Zitero’s computer, sift past Salma, Jennifer and Penelope and find something rather interesting (if the afore mentioned three are not interesting enough for you). There is word processing document addressed to Á.Contreras, Chairman of Albacete. It seems our Zander was considering applying for their manager’s job, as a springboard to his eventual goal of conquering Europe and resurrecting his reputation. However, the final destination of the document was the recycle bin, Zander has rather large fish to fry in the coming months; it does, however, remind us of Zander’s ambitions.

Also this week: the Beaurocracy of the greatest competition on this side of the Planet was completed, with Zander sending off the list of 25 that will be eligible for the tournement. All the big names are in, as well as loanee Jair Garcia; the only name that will be familiar to the reader that misses out is José Raymundo Valencia.

That brings us pretty well up to the point about 3 seconds ago when Senor Hugo León Guajardo knocked on the dressing room doors, beckoning to of the giants of Mexican football to do battle in the stunning Collaseaum that is the Esatdio Azteca.


25/1/04

(Mexican First Division, Closing Stage, Match #3)/ América (MEX) Vs Tigres / Estadio Azteca, Mexico City

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">| Pos | Grp | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 2nd | 1st | Tigres | | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 2 | +4 | 4 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 9th | 2nd | América (MEX) | | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 1 | +2 | 3 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|</pre>

America (Mex): (4-1-2-1-2) GK - Becerra, DL - Wederson, DR - Castro, DC - de la Cuesta, DC - Rojas; DMC - Pardo (c), ML - Mendoza, MR - Azuara, AMC - Blanco; SC - Navia, SC - de Nigris

As briefly alluded to earlier, these two sides are both giants of Mexican football, and their respective status’ and respect for each other shone through in this match. With the occasional burst of pretty football resulting in a long range effort; but in the most part it was cagey and scrappy, and begging for something to set it alight.

That something came after 22 minutes through new boy Antonio de Nigris. With the ball out of play, around 50 yards away from him, the Mexican striker took it upon himself to elbow David Oteo in the face right in front of the assistant referee. Correctly, the referee sent £1,700,000 worth of thug trudging dejectedly from the Azteca turf; and if looks could kill then a potential capitulation against Tigres would be least of Zander Zitero’s worries as he started his term in the Pen for murder one.

Things nearly got worse immediately after the sending off when an Irenio free kick deflected off Pavel Pardo, forcing a stunning save from Becerra who was going the wrong way and had no right to get back and claw the ball wide. Unfortunately that was only the first of a barrage of attacks launched on a shell shocked América (MEX) defence which looked it‘s flood gates were considering opening, with this pressure only punctuated by an Azuara free kick which flew over the bar.

The inevitable inevitably occurs, and that was the case here as, just after the Azuara free kick which looked like providing respite, Tigres found the elusive opener. It came through Argentinian striker Andres Silvera, who is on loan from Independiente until the conclusion of this season, from a simple enough cross, Silvera rose higher than Rojas from an Irenio cross and glanced a superb header past the excellent Becerra to put the side that finished top of the Opening Stage League Table Phase ahead.

The natural fear amongst the home crowd of 56,000 at the Azteca was that the sheer dominance of Tigres would result in more goals; América (MEX) certainly were not playing like the home side - Antonio de Nigris had launched then up the creek, and he took the paddle into the dressing room with him. The fears were realised 7 minutes later when midfielder Antonio Sancho decided to try his luck from the edge of the area, and through an array of bodies the ball flew into the bottom corner to double the deficit and completely silence the already subdued home crowd.

The decibel level then seemed to drop into the minuses as Tigres got another goal in quick succession, again this one came through Silvera, this time he was played through by an incisive through ball by Waltar Gaitán, and the clinical striker slotted the ball past a thoroughly undeserving-of-this Alberto Becerra.

The one finger over the mouth ‘ssshh’ing’ the home crowd - as Silvera did - usually evokes anger, but it was surprisingly subdued, with the natives almost accepting the insult, as if to say ‘you’d be pretty quiet too if you had to watch this crap’. Zander Zitero simply raised his eyes to the Heavens; whilst knowing full well that one of your players smacking the opposition in the face nullifies the right to divine intervention.

One small mercy was that the second half was slightly less eventful, although that can be attributed to Tigres’ gleeful acceptance of a 3-0 away win. Chances for Navia and Blanco in the second half do not even nearly paper over the cracks - sorry, gaping chasms - that were illustrated tonight.

América (MEX) 0 - 3 Tigres (Silvera 29, 39; Sancho 36)


The goals came in the 29th, 36th, and 39th minutes; but make no mistake, this match was lost the moment Antonio de Nigris, like and enraged Neanderthal, idiotically decided to elbow a fellow professional in the face.

It is truly a shame that after seemingly proving his doubters wrong against Veracruz, that de Nigris committed this act of gross stupidity, and his side will now have to travel to Atlante and attempt to get back on track without him; although until he grows up that may be a blessing in disguise.

retired_roxysunny101

February 2004

Considering that Andres Silvera would have to improve considerably to be even classed as a ‘poor man’s Fernando Cavenaghi’, Ramón Dian undoubtedly read the match report from the last outing at the Azteca with unreserved delight, knowing - as we do - that if América play that badly against the champions of Argentina then there will be a cricket score.

However, Zander Zitero, and the match squad in the claustrophobic away dressing room of the Estadio Azulgrana de Neza - including Blanco playing up front with Esteche in the hole; and Patino in for suspended Mendoza - must put that mauling at the hands of Tigres out of their minds as they try and climb from the unprecedented low of 16th place, albeit after only 3 games.

A man not able to help the América (MEX) cause tonight is Antonio de Nigris who is sitting in the stand, after a week of training in the knowedge he would not receive his wages at the end of it. Despite his stupidity a week ago Antonio de Nigris is still a footballer, and he wishes he could be out there as América (MEX) go for their first away points of the Closing Stage, hopefully for Zander Zitero he’ll be looking to prove himself when he returns; just as the eleven players out on the field, about to kick-off, are looking to prove themselves tonight.


1/2/04

(Mexican First Division, Closing Stage, Match #4)/ Atlante Vs América (MEX) / Estadio Azulgrana de Neza, Cuidad Neza

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">| Pos | Grp | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 6th | 2nd | Atlante | | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | +1 | 5 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 16th | 3rd | América (MEX) | | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 4 | -1 | 3 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|</pre>

America (Mex): (4-1-2-1-2) GK - Becerra, DL - Wederson, DR - Castro, DC - de la Cuesta, DC - Rojas; DMC - Pardo (c), ML - Patino, MR - Azuara, AMC - Esteche; SC - Navia, SC - Blanco

After the humbling from Tigres, América (MEX) could have really done with an early confidence booster, you know, a goal around 2 minutes in perhaps; and amazingly, belittling early league standings, that is exactly what happened. Cuauhtémoc Blanco did well to hold up the ball, eventually forcing a foul on the edge of the Atlante box. Up stepped the rejuvenated winger Juan Manuel Azuara to curl a pearl past Federico Vilar to send the travelling support into rapture, and to silence the incessant drums of the rowdy natives and stop flares mid-lighting.

The proceeding spell of apparent attacking hibernation by both sides will have pleased Zander Zitero, who would have wanted to secure the lead before chasing another; even more pleasing would be the fact that América (MEX)’s lack of attacking ambition looked deliberate, whereas Atlante just looked void of most talents needed to form coherent attack

This feeling that América (MEX) could step up the pace when the occasion called for it was confirmed just before half time when Azuara decided he felt like doing some tormenting; he shimmied his way to the bye-line before whipping in an inviting cross, on to which Navia made a great connection, thundering the cross bar; but luckily for Zitero’s side it fell straight to Cuauhtémoc Blanco - who was clearly basking in his purely predatory role, as oppose to having the creative burden on his shoulder - to knock the ball in from 3 yards while Vilar was still in mid air trying to save Navia’s bullet header.

That goal quadrupled how happy Zander Zitero was at half time, 1-0 was ok, 2-0 was solid. Given the nature of the performance, Zitero did not even consider making any changes for the second half, he simply sent the same eleven out with orders to defend well and try and sew it up on the break.

Zander Zitero’s tactics - if they had not been already - were completely vindicated early in the second half when the game was put beyond any doubt with Blanco’s second and América (MEX) 3rd. It came through a slightly over hit pass into the box by Esteche, due to the fact it was a poor pass, nobody picked up the run by Navia and he managed to catch the ball before it went out, and supplemented that by managing a great cut back to Blanco, who fired a shot from about 5 yards out past Vilar. Blanco, celebrating his 100th league goal exposed a shirt baring a message translated roughly as ‘100 and I’ll keep counting’.

Everything was calculatedly slow paced for another stretch of the already resolved game, until Reinaldo Navia applied a little more decoration to the result, by getting a well deserved goal; heading in a corner kick from eventual, and deserved, man of the match Juan Manuel Azuara corner kick with 20 minutes left on the clock.

América (MEX) had well and truly recovered from what could have been a morale shattering defeat at home, and going into the last 15 minutes we can forgive them a little slip, as Nestor Gutierrez slipped through the defence before executing a delectable little chip over the head of Becerra into the net. Despite the unadulterated quality of the consolation, it was a consolation and does not merit lingering. Instead let us enjoy the fact this great result was a Polar opposite of a week ago, and something for Zitero and his squad to build on in the coming weeks in all competitions.

Atlante (Gutierrez 77) 1 - 4 América (MEX) (Azuara 2; Blanco 40, 52; Navia 69)


In the last seven days that we have been following América (MEX) we have seen them humbled in thier own backyard (sending off or not they should still get more than 1 shot on goal) followed by an emphatic victory over a team 10 places above them in the table. This would appear to suggest that América (MEX) are struggling for consistency as the Closing Stage commences; a problem that Zander Zitero would love to commit all his focus to ahead of the match at home to Pachuca, but as we watch him congratulating his players, he has other things fighting for space in his immediate thoughts.

retired_roxysunny101

February 2004

CONCACAF Champions Cup Draw

Zander Zitero was marching, he was storming, he did not enjoy the draw for the Copa Libertadores, too formal, and he’d much rather be on the training ground right now instead of attending what he presumed would be a similar event.

He pushed the swing doors open to enter a room inside The Central American Soccer HQ, and was pleased to be greeted by quite an intimate little room; it was not at all like the massive auditorium of Managers, Chairman, Sponsors and Dignitaries, decorated with 3 massive electronic screens showing the groups in monstrous colour in which the Copa Libertadores draw took place. No, this was more comparable to the drawing of a domestic trophy, a lot more human than the Copa Libertadores draw.

Quickly, Zander forgot how annoyed he was supposed to be about having to come here instead of concentrating on league football. He spent the time between entering the room and the draw chatting nonchalantly with some other managers, including old nemesis Américo Gallego of Monterrey. One of the topics of conversation was the paper this morning, in which Zander Zitero publicly praised Cuauhtémoc Blanco. Zander explained that this was to officially bury the hatchet after their minor bust up in the Opening Stage, plus he has been immense for the majority of the season.

He had praised Blanco to the paper, but Zander himself had not seen the article; he has not read a Newspaper since he saw the articles in the English press following his mother’s death.

Finally, after an utterly pleasant fifteen minutes in the Conference Room sized room chatting with some of his fellow managers, three men emerged to make the draw for the CONCACAF Champions Cup First Round; and another pleasant surprise was that the draw took place with great haste, which was helped by the fact it is straight knock-out due to the lack of good teams, and Countries for that matter, in Central America.

Whether in a gargantuan Hall in South America; or an intimate room in Cental America, the tension as the draw takes place is universal:

W Connection (TRI) Vs Toluca (MEX)
Chicago Fire (USA) Vs Saprissa (CRC)
Los Angeles Galaxy (USA) Vs Comunicaciones (GUA)
AMERICA (MEX) (MEX) Vs Juventus FC (BLZ)
Luis Angel Firpo (SLV) Vs Cruz Azul (MEX)
Colorado Rapids (USA) Vs Cavalier FC (JAM)
Kansas City Wizards (USA) Vs Motagua (HON)
Monterrey (MEX) Vs Tauro (PAN)

Looking at the draw, which had been printed out and handed to all managers, it was plain to see that there were weak teams in the competitions, and Zander Zitero was bold enough to assume that Juventus of Belize were one of them (Off Character: the city in which away leg will be played is called Orange Walk, as a Rangers supporter I find that incredibly ironic). The longer Zander gazed on the draw, the longer he saw this competition as a viable source of success for América (MEX) this season, and - some duff teams or not - this is the Central American Confederation's major trophy and would do just fine for Zitero’s first year in charge.

Again, as with the Copa Libertadores draw, he must now plant this dream in the abandoned recesses of his brain for the time being; there are many bridges to be crossed in the near future, and Zander must take take them one at a time.

retired_roxysunny101

February 2004

The landscape of the next few months is now clearly visible on the horizon, with all competitions drawn Zander Zitero now knows what lies ahead for him and his América (MEX) side.

However, although it is a relief to have the uncertainty removed, knowing who they will be facing, and beating them are two very different things, and momentum must now be gathered with a home win tonight ahead of a gruelling calendar of Mexican League, Libertadores and Champions Cup football; and that is a point being made tediously often by Zander Zitero ahead of kick-off at the Azteca.

Mind you, inconsistency is something the home faithful had to put up with throughout the Opening Stage Championship, and they still turned up in great numbers for every game, and that dedication is evident again tonight with 51,000 supporters all shrugging off the last home match - the 3-0 defeat by Tigres, with singing and chanting, and making for a great atmosphere to greet the home side and a daunting atmosphere if you are unfortunate enough to be wearing the blue of Pachuca.

As usual at the Azteca, some of the mammoth noise levels from the crowd seep into the dressing rooms; it is a great effect and sets the adrenilane going amongst the 22 players like a start gun. At this moment, which América(MEX) experience every second week, football stops being a sport, and becomes something altogether more important; and it takes a big man to walk on to that turf and deal with that burden. Zander Zitero needs his side to begin to prove they are big men consistently at the Azteca.


8/2/04

(Mexican First Division, Closing Stage, Match #5)/ América (MEX) Vs Pachuca / Estadio Azteca, Mexico City

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">| Pos | Grp | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 9th | 3rd | Pachuca | | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 7 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| 10th | 2nd | América (MEX) | | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 7 | 5 | +2 | 6 || ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|</pre>

America (Mex): (4-1-2-1-2) GK - Becerra, DL - Wederson, DR - Gonzalez, DC - de la Cuesta, DC - Rojas; DMC - Pardo (c), ML - Mendoza, MR - Azuara, AMC - Esteche; SC - Navia, SC - Blanco

Despite the incessant whistling every time a Pachuca player touched the ball, Carlos Leonel Trucco’s side started the better of the two sides, playing some good football to frustrate the home side, and the home faithful. Indeed, Eduardo Oetling forced a smart save from Alberto Becerra after only a couple of minutes with a decent effort from the edge of the area.

In truth, the only thing América (MEX) succeeded in early on was receiving bookings, with Rojas, Azuara and Mendoza all picking up yellows in the first 10 minutes; as if trying to provoke a similar course as the last home outing.

To the relief of everyone interested in América (MEX), the home side did manage to get a foothold on the game as it progressed. Nothing too spectacular but at least the immediate dander of being overrun in a Tigres like fashion was gone. From that foothold chances were created, the best of which falling to Navia when he was played clean through by Esteche; Navia - usually so cool in those situations - blasted high, wide, and hideously disfigured.

Navia’s wild lash looked like something that would be rued when disaster struck just minutes from half time. Andrés Chitiva made a bursting run from midfield to get himself into a decent shooting position; with defenders backing off him he took the invitation, his shot was powerful but not particularly well directed, that was until it hit José Julián de la Cuesta and bounded back towards goal, leaving Alberto Becerra stranded and dumbfounded before nestling in the bottom corner. With a shake of the head, a rueful smile materialized across Zander Zitero’s face which said more than my word could ever hope to.

Due to the combination of a lack of options and the fact they were on the ascendancy towards the end of the first half, Zander Zitero made no changes at half time, instead choosing to stick with the same eleven players in the hope they could turn it on for just 45 minutes in their own backyard.

A quick reply in the second half was needed and thanks to the whistler the chance was given. A tug back in the box was spotted, and the eagle eye referee decided, with the help of 51,000 utterly adamant voives, not too pleasant in their tone, to give the penalty kick. Pavel Pardo took the vital kick off of de la Cuesta, and placed the ball on the spot. There was a sharp, simultaneous intake of breath by 51,000 thousand people, before a…. roar as Pavel Pardo thrashed the ball right down the middle to restore parity, and atmosphere in the Azteca.

The speed of which the ball was returned to the centre circle was a testament to the momentum now gained by the home side, but they didn’t quite manage to take the game by th scruff of the neck as they should have, with Pachuca remaining a very real threat. Chances were present, although the split was surprisingly even, with Oetling, Chivita, Navia, Blanco, and Mendoza all being denied in a frantic spell in the second half; from which Alberto Becerra and his Pachuca counterpart emerged with much credit.

The fact the match was still level, and a very even contest, made for a thoroughly intriguing climax, and it did not dissapoint. Just 10 minutes from the end América (MEX) launched an attack from their own half, with Pardo driving forward with the ball, he played a sweeping ball across to Azuara; Azuara, as energetic as he was in the first ten minutes, put in an uncharacteristically early ball, but with all the quality as his usual crosses, straight on to the head of Reinaldo Navia; and the big Chilean, no doubt with his earlier miss dancing around his thoughts, directed a glorious header from 10 yards out into the top right hand corner of the net. 3 Tonnes of Semtex could have not made the Azteca explode more satisfactorily, the celebrations were wild amongst fans and players, a win was vital and it was now very close.

Composure would be a vital aspect of the remainder this match, and amazingly, after the wild scenes of a moment earlier, América (MEX) managed to get themselves into an organised formation. Andrés Chivita - as he likes to do - had a long range effort in injury time which stung the palms of Alberto Becerra, but that was as close as the away side came and América (MEX) rode out the game.

América (MEX) (Pardo pen 50; Navia 81) 2 - 1 Pachuca (Chivita 45)


It is a tired old cliché, but scrappy wins are sometimes the most important, and the celebrations of Navia’s goal and subsequent celebrations taking place in the home dressing room at the moment are a testement to that fact, and this scrappy victory will surely exorcise some some ghosts and provide a good springboards to build up some such needed momentum in 2004.

However, even as champagne corks fly across the dressing room, and club songs are mid stanza, Zander Zitero’s mind is elsewhere. It is in Venezuela.