Update: Well, lucky for me it’s dinner time, so I’m going to microwave a crow Hot Pocket and congratulate Seattle on a big win. Perhaps this is the start of a 30-plus-match MLS winning streak in Mexico.

JON ARNOLD — So the match starts in a matter of minutes, but after overwhelming guilt for forgetting the CONCACAF Champions League in my news roundup this morning, I wanted to get a quick post up about tonight’s CCL matches. Specifically, Seattle is in Monterrey to take on the Rayados.

Last week, FC Dallas managed to notch a 1-0 victory and finally put an end to MLS’ dreadful losing streak in matches in Mexico. It won’t be so easy for a second straight win. For one, Dallas was able to benefit from a Pumas side that was playing several young players, some reserves. Tonight it will be Seattle hoping to do the same, as they flew straight from Dallas after a MLS match, are back in Seattle on the weekend for a date with the Columbus Crew, and then host Dallas in a U.S. Open Cup semifinal.

Meanwhile, Monterrey will likely play at least some of their top players, like Aldo de Nigris (who you may remember from the Gold Cup) and Humburto Suazo up top and several other big names sprinkled throughout.

That’s not to say Seattle couldn’t pull the upset, but while you can’t blame the Sounders for looking ahead to important domestic matches, MLS won’t have continued success in Mexico unless they keep running into FMF’s “A-” sides or have the ability to play their top teams. At the risk of looking like a fool as kick off approaches rapidly, don’t expect MLS teams to turn FC Dallas’ streak-busting win into a streak of their own.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Rapids take on Real España in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. The Rapids are also resting a few key players, but while the Honduran side is good, it’s not quite at the level of Seattle’s opponent. Colorado also has been reading up on their opponent, something that is sure please Brent.

Apologies for the rushed post. I’ll do even better next time.

by Jon Arnold