The Club America vs Chicago Fire friendly match will take place on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 (5:30 PM Pacific) at the Toyota Park in Chicago. This will be Club America’s last USA friendly prior to the start of the Apertura 2013, and it will end what has so far been an unsuccessful preseason.
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Update: Club America defeated the Chicago Fire 3-2. Click here for the full highlights.
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Club America started off its US friendly tour with a 1-0 loss against archival Chivas in Las Vegas on July 3. The match was overshadowed by the fighting in the stands… and parking lot… and on the pitch… and between the players…
It was a complete disaster.
Prior to the game, hundreds of Chivas and America “fans” fought each other in the parking lot, forcing the police to break it up. During the match, Chivas and Club America players started a brawl, which resulted in the expulsion of several players. The violence slowly spread into the stands, where more and more fights erupted. After a late goal from Chivas, the match had to be cancelled due to fans rushing the field, and widespread fighting across the stadium.
The only positive aspect of the match was that… I guess nothing good happened.
Club America followed up that disastrous experience with a 5-2 loss against Xolos in a friendly match held at Petco Park in San Diego (July 6). Herrera lined up what was basicaly the U-20 squad; Xolos fielded a side that was about half starters half bench players. Xolos quickly overwhelmed America and were up 5-0 at one point. The match ended 5-2, and America proved that its youngsters are nowhere near being at the Liga MX level. Xolos proved they still have it, new coach and all.
Against Chicago Fire, America will likely face an alternate squad, Chicago is in the middle of the MLS season, and will be unlikely to use key players for a friendly match. Herrera will once again use youngsters, as he didn’t bother to bring most of his key players for the USA tour. The fans in the stands paying good money will, unfortunately, only recognize the shirts, not the players wearing them.
America vs Chicago Fire Prediction
The America vs Chicago Fire match is hard to predict, as both teams will be using alternate squads. However, since this version of Club America is having such a terrible preseason, and the Chicago Fire players will be playing at home, I predict a win for the home team.
The Club America vs Chicago Fire match will end in a 2-1 victory for Chicago. Club America will thus end its American tour with 3 losses, but plenty of money in its pockets.
America vs Chicago Fire Television
The America vs Chicago Fire match will be televised on ESPN Deportes and ESPN 3 on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at 5:30 PM Pacific.
