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Matchday 9: Capital Classic and Guadalajara derby

By Thomas Buckley

Pumas striker Carlos Gonzalez might find space on free kicks since rugged América defender Bruno Valdez will not be available. González scored the lone goal in UNAM's 1-0 win the last time the Clásico Capitalino was played at the CU. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
Pumas striker Carlos Gonzalez might find space on free kicks since rugged América defender Bruno Valdez will not be available. González scored the lone goal in UNAM's 1-0 win the last time the Clásico Capitalino was played at the CU. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images) /
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Mexico City, Guadalajara classics
Tijuana players celebrate during the first-leg semifinal match against Toluca. The Xolos will take a 3-0 lead into the return match with a chance to reach their first Copa MX final (Photo by Eduardo Teran/Jam Media/Getty Images) /

Copa MX leans north; “Chicharito” speaks out

The first legs of the Copa MX semifinals hint at a Border War in the Finals.

Host Tijuana destroyed Toluca 3-0 as newcomer Brayan Angulo recorded a hat trick for the Xolos. Los Rojinegros must defend their advantage in Toluca on Tuesday, March 10.

If Tijuana holds on, the Xolos will rescue a disappointing Clausura (currently in 16th place) and they will reach their first-ever Copa MX final.

In Ciudad Juárez, the Bravos stunned visiting Monterrey by scoring twice despite playing with only 10 men. Midfielder Flavio Santos was red-carded in minute 79 in a scoreless game just as Monterrey seemed to be getting a bit of momentum.

Darío Lezcano (minute 87) and Diego Rolán (90+3) unleashed raucous celebrations with a pair of splendid goals. The Bravos head to Monterrey to face the Rayados in the return match on March 11.

Meanwhile, just north of Tijuana, Javier Hernández has been making waves.

“Chicharito” has started his MLS career with bombast and heavy media exposure. The popular striker joined the L.A. Galaxy from Sevilla after spending the past 10 years in Europe.

During one of his first press conferences, “Chicharito” declared himself a legend of Mexican soccer. Although he is El Tri’s all-time leading scorer, critics point out that more than half his goals have come in friendlies.

This past week, Hernández took a veiled shot at the Mexican Soccer Federation, questioning the financial management of the national team. This did not sit well with team officials, but reporters were quick to point out several transgressions involving “Chicharito” and El Tri.

The most recent alleged incident occurred last year when the star striker three a team employee under the bus after asking him to cover for home regarding a training camp violation.

dark. Next. Big 4 in Liga MX playoff hunt

El Universal Deportes speculated that “Chicharito” is desperately trying to get attention since he has fallen out of the pecking order. Mexico manager Gerardo Martino has made it clear that Raúl Jiménez is his favored striker, while J.J. Macías is the clear No. 2.

Whatever the case, it would seem that “Chicharito” is burning the bridges he needs to cross back into El Tri’s good graces.

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