By DAN KARELL
Based on recent performances, it should come as no surprise that midfielder Paul Arriola earned a place in the starting lineup for Club Tijuana on Tuesday night.
For the first time in his career since signing professional terms this summer with Xolos, Arriola took the field from the start, playing all 90 minutes in a 0-0 draw with LA Firpo of El Salvador in their CONCACAF Champions League debut match. Arriola had one shot on target, which was easily saved five minutes before the half.
The Chula Vista, California native joined U.S. Men’s National Team members Edgar Castillo and Joe Corona in the Xolos starting lineup, with fellow American Greg Garza entering in the 83rd minute off the bench.
So far this season, Ariolla has two assists in two appearances off the bench in Liga MX, while he has also been part of the 18 but didn’t feature on one other occasion.
Here’s the match highlights from CONCACAF (after the jump):
