Hector Moreno from Monterrey and Rudy Camacho from the Columbus Crew battled it out during the recent 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals. In a surprising turn of events, the Columbus Crew emerged victorious with a 3-1 win in the second leg against CF Monterrey, securing a 5-2 overall victory over two legs. This accomplishment is considered a milestone for MLS teams in continental play, especially after beating strong opponents like Tigres UANL and Monterrey.
The road to the final was not easy for Columbus, facing tough competition and coming out on top through penalties and hard-fought matches. Although the format of playing a one-off final match on the road at CF Pachuca posed a challenge, the Crew remained resilient and focused on their goal.
The choice of Pachuca as the host for the final game raised some questions due to the difference in strength of schedules and the home advantage that comes with it. While both teams, Pachuca and Columbus, have a similar record against Liga MX and MLS teams, the debate over which league is superior still lingers.
In the end, the decision to have a one-game final and the challenges that come with it reflect the expansion of the tournament and the need to accommodate more teams. Despite the logistical and financial considerations, the focus remains on the competitive spirit and the excitement that comes with the final showdown.
Looking back at history, MLS teams have had mixed success in Concacaf finals, especially on Mexican soil. However, with an impressive track record in final legs played in Mexico, the Columbus Crew have a chance to defy the odds and make their mark in continental football.
Overall, the journey to the final has been filled with challenges and triumphs, showcasing the competitive nature of Concacaf football and the determination of teams like the Columbus Crew to make their mark on the international stage.
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