Chivas USA Face Tough Challenge
Chivas USA forward Jesus Padilla and company are looking to fight their way into the playoffs. (Getty Images)
Ironic is the term that best describes the challenge before Chivas USA as they ready themselves to take on DC United this evening at the Home Depot Center.
Tonight, the final third of their 2010 campaign begins. It is a third of a season in which they will need to secure as many points as possible if they hope to make it into this year’s MLS Cup playoffs. As it currently stands, the team could qualify by earning at least 11 more points from their final 10 matches, but they would also need a massive amount of help in the form of numerous favorable results in order to make it. A more realistic scenario would require the team to earn 20 or more points.
What does this all mean? Simple, the red-and-white need to win, starting tonight, as they’ll need at least 5 victories to have a chance at the 20 points and playoffs.
If all of this sounds a bit too familiar, it should, as a somewhat similar scenario played itself out at around the same time last season. However coincidental that might be, the irony in question here is that although the team’s playoff hopes lie on their performance in the final third of their season, it is their performance throughout the year in the final third of the pitch that has factored heavily into their current situation.
Its been a tough year for the Chivas USA offense. Red-and-white forward Justin Braunaldinho leads the club with 7 goals and has done his fair share, but the team has regularly struggled to finish quality chances in the offensive third. Late game mental lapses have further complicated the matter and have been the cause of lost points on multiple occasions.
But in recent games, Chivas USA showed they are determined to right the ship. The addition of Rodolfo Espinoza and Giancarlo Maldonado added a spark to their offense and although the team lost 1 - 0 last week in Dallas, the red-and-white appear more dangerous and determined in the final third.
A victory over DC may prove to be a sufficiently good mental boost to help them overcome their challenge and qualify for the playoffs. With the pressing need to win, the match is also likely to be hard fought and full of fast paced action. Don't miss it!
Game Details
Chivas USA vs. DC United
Where: Home Depot Center, Carson
When: August 29th, 2010, 7:00 PM
TV/Radio: ESPN Deportes, ESPN2, 690 AM