Mexican champion Club Tijuana got their inaugural appearance in Copa Libertadores off to a dream start, posting a 1-0 victory over Colombian champions Millonarios on Tuesday night in Bogota in the group stage opener for both sides.
Richard Ruiz scored the game-winner for Tijuana, heading home a cross from U.S. National Team defender Edgar Castillo for the only score of the match. Goalkeeper Cirilo Saucedo did the rest, making several key saves, including a vital stop of a bicycle kick attempt by former Seattle Sounders forward Fredy Montero.
Castillo and fellow U.S. National team player Joe Corona earned starts for Club Tijuana, which now sits in first place in their Copa Libertadores group, a group that includes reigning champion Corinthians.
Here are some more stories to get your Wednesday going:
PELE TELLS NEYMAR TO JOIN BARCELONA
Brazilian legend Pele is never shy about giving his opinion, so the three-time World Cup winner had no problem telling young Brazilian star Neymar that he should join FC Barcelona rather than taking a big-money approach from Manchester City.
Neymar has long been rumored to be heading to Barcelona after the 2014 World Cup, but Manchester City is reportedly preparing a super-sized bid for the Santos sensation, an approach Pele believes Neymar should pass on in order to play with Lionel Messi and Barca.
Pele did more than just offer advice. He also had some criticism for the 21-year-old star.
“We think that he is the best in the world, but he is more concerned about appearing in the media than playing for the team,” Pele said. “Neymar has a lot of responsibilities on his shoulders. Right now his major concerns are fashion and his haircut.”
DEL PIERO STAYING IN AUSTRALIA
Italian legend Alessandro Del Piero has apparently enjoyed his time in Australia, choosing to activate the second year of his contract with Aussie side Sydney FC.
Del Piero has enjoyed success with Sydney FC, scoring a league-best 11 goals in his first campaign.
Del Piero had been linked to a potential move to Major League Soccer, while Brazilian clubs also expressed interest in the former Juventus standout.
QUICK KICKS
After a decade in charge, Manchester United chairman David Gill is stepping down. (REPORT)
Honduran national team defender Maynor Figueroa looks set to leave Wigan for West Ham this summer. (REPORT)
——–
What do you think of these developments? Think Club Tijuana can make a deep run in Copa Libertadores? Agree with Pele’s advice for Neymar? Disappointed to see Del Piero staying in Australia rather than coming to MLS?
Share your thoughts below.