BY ADAM SERRANO
The hex for MLS clubs in Mexico has finally been broken.
Marvin Chavez scored in the 66th minute to give FC Dallas a 1-0 victory over Pumas UNAM in their Group C opener. With the win, Dallas become the first team from MLS to win in Mexico in the CONCACAF Champions League 24 tries south of the border. Pumas field zero starters from last weekend's league game, but was able to force several key saves from Kevin Hartman early.
After the early surge by the young UNAM team, Dallas began to control the match with Brek Shea creating several chances for FCD. Dallas finally broke through in the 66th minute when Jair Benitez fired a shot off the post that fell to a waiting Chavez, who easily scored from close range.
Although Pumas fielded an extremely young side, it was just the second loss at home for the current Mexican league leaders, the first since a 1-0 loss to Cruz Azul in 2009. Action in Group C continues on Thursday as Toronto FC take on Panamian side Tauro in Panama City.
Dallas will look to take command of Group C next week when they travel to BMO Field om August 24th to take on Toronto FC. The Mexicans will try to rebound from the defeat against Tauro on August 25th.
Highlights of the match below:
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJvDyIsBgds]