Two must-win games are on the slate tonight for MLS teams still involved in the CONCACAF Champions League. D.C. United is in Mexico, and takes on Toluca down in Mexico (8pm, FSC/Telefutura). Meanwhile in Puerto Rico, the Crew are out to ensure their passage to the third round (2am, FSC).
It's been a dramatic turnaround for the Black-and-Red in Group B. After dropping their first two games of the Champions League, United has come roaring back, winning three in a row, twice against San Juan Jabloteh and Marathon. While their future in the competition is simple — win and they're in — they'll have to take care of business against a Toluca team that has been superb at home of late.
A D.C. loss wouldn't spell elimination, but they'd need help from Jabloteh, who have failed to win in five tries in the Champions League. Jabloteh hosts Marathon in Group B's final game, and a win by the club from Trinidad & Tobago would allow United to qualify through the tiebreaker.
The Crew need at least a draw to ensure a spot in the quarterfinals. Columbus rested a number of players Saturday in their 1-0 loss at D.C., and with a point will seal the second spot in the group. Making matters slightly easier is Saprissa's need to win at Cruz Azul. Anything less and Columbus can still make it through.
If you will be watching tonight's matches, please feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and some play-by-play in the comments section below.
Can D.C. win in Mexico? Can Columbus get the result they need to make the quarterfinals?
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