Waiting on Toronto vs Seattle
We’re a day away from the conclusion of the 2017 MLS season. Toronto FC hosts the Seattle Sounders in the MLS Cup final on Saturday (4pm ET – ESPN) with the story lines firmly in place. That might not mean much when the game gets underway. Last season’s final turned into a grind with both teams unwilling to risk much in pursuit of a goal. This time, there is pressure on both teams to show that they can take the game in regulation. It’s a proof of concept given the difference in styles between Toronto and the Sounders.
MLSsoccer.com’s Sam Stejskal highlights the on field matchups including two key USMNT players. The Toronto Globe and Mail’s David Shoalts has Toronto focused on the game rather than talking points. The Seattle Times’ Geoff Baker asks the dynasty question should the Sounders repeat.
Also in the soccer news, Matt Miazga’s Vitesse Arnhem shutout Nice 1-0 at home in the Europa League. Luc Castaignos scored the game’s only goal in the 84th minute. This was Vitesse’s only win in the group stage, finishing bottom of Group K. Lazio and Nice advanced to the Round of 32.
The Liga MX final series opened with Tigres drawing 1-1 at home with Monterrey. It was Monterrey taking the early lead and the away goal advantage when Nicolas Sanchez scored in the 9th minute. Enner Valencia equalized from the penalty spot in the 26th. Both teams finished a man down. Leonel Vangioni saw red for Monterrey in the 88th minute and Hugo Ayala followed for Tigres a minute into stoppage time. Jose Torres was on the bench for Tigres.
ESPN FC’s Andy Mitten looks at the recent history of the Manchester derby. The Independent’s Miguel Delaney on what Manchester City represents to the rest of the Premier League right now. The NY Times’ Rory Smith focuses on the difference between Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho and City manager Pep Guardiola. BBC Sport on the Premier League adding a Saturday night time slot to the schedule starting in 2019-20. The Guardian’s Jacob Steinberg interviews West Ham co-owner David Sullivan.
Reuters’ report that Peru’s captain Paolo Guerrero will miss the World Cup due to failing a drug test.
Who will Bob the sloth choose as the #MLSCup winner? Alongside his common marmoset mascots, watch below to see who he thinks will claim victory tomorrow; @torontofc or @soundersfc! ⚽
Gooooooooooo Toooooorooooooonnnnnntoooooooooooo. pic.twitter.com/D3huW2LqqA
— The Toronto Zoo (@TheTorontoZoo) December 8, 2017
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