By Josue Lopez
The Colorado Rapids defeated back-to-back Liga MX champions Club America. In a quarter-final that took place at LA Galaxy´s Stadium Dignity Health Sports Park, the 23,000 fans, mostly America supporters, witnessed a game lack of emotions and an endless penalty shootout.
Andre Jardine’s team stepped on the field with two defensive midfielders, Alvaro Fidalgo and former LA Galaxy player Jonathan dos Santos, and an interesting attack with Diego Valdes, former LAFC member Brian Rodriguez, and Henry Martin.
Chris Armas had a similar formation commanded by former Manchester City goalkeeper Zack Steffan, Connor Roman and former USMNT member Cale Bassett in the midfield, Mihaolivic behind the striker who ended up being Brazilian Rafael Navarro.
America had a couple of shots where Steffan appeared, but nothing that could move the score or make the march more dynamic. The hypothetical goalkeeper duel between Mexican National Team member Angel Malagon and former Man City goalkeeper Zack Steffan ended with a long penalty shootout.
Luis Angel Malagon stroked the ball that ended wide of Steffan´s goal. The Rapids goalkeeper placed the ball into the net. Thus, Colorado advanced to the semifinals, and candidate Club America, who was the last hope for Liga MX supporters, ended with a disappointing result.
The Colorado Rapids will remain in California, where they will face LAFC at BMO Stadium. The Black and Gold advanced to the semifinals after a 3-0 victory against the Seattle Sounders. Philadelphia Union, who eliminated the other Liga MX representative Mazatlan FC in a similar penalty shootout, will face current Major League Soccer champions Columbus Crew. Both games will, take place next Wednesday.
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