MLS Taking on the World
The MLS is always in need of exposure. So it's a good thing that MLS teams have scheduled a number of exhibition games against European sides this summer. The MLS All-Star team will take on mighty Chelsea on August 5 at Toyota Park. The Revolution host Celtic, winners of the Scottish Premier League, on July 19 and the Columbus Crew take on Everton a week later. The Fire and CD Chivas USA also have international titls on their schedules.
Each of these games is an opportunity to showcase the growth of our country's league. On the flip side, each game can also reveal the gap between the MLS and European soccer.
The most important of these games - and, by consequence, the one in which the MLSers have to perform well - is the All-Star game against Chelsea. Chelsea is well-konwn name in these parts and plenty of American soccer fans will tune in to watch them in this nationally televised game. Many of these viewers are unsold on the quality of the MLS. They may tune in to watch Chelsea, but a good showing from our league's best players could go a long way towards converting MLS doubters. A poor showing, would reinforce the common sentiment that the MLS is an extremely subpar league. With any luck, Chelsea will play its regulars and the All-Stars will hold their own and add some legitimacy to the growing league.
On another note, Peter Novak's stellar record this season at D.C. United has earned him the right to coach the MLS All-Stars. He's certainly a name that ought to be mentioned as a potential successor to Bruce Arena. More on that tomorrow.
Each of these games is an opportunity to showcase the growth of our country's league. On the flip side, each game can also reveal the gap between the MLS and European soccer.
The most important of these games - and, by consequence, the one in which the MLSers have to perform well - is the All-Star game against Chelsea. Chelsea is well-konwn name in these parts and plenty of American soccer fans will tune in to watch them in this nationally televised game. Many of these viewers are unsold on the quality of the MLS. They may tune in to watch Chelsea, but a good showing from our league's best players could go a long way towards converting MLS doubters. A poor showing, would reinforce the common sentiment that the MLS is an extremely subpar league. With any luck, Chelsea will play its regulars and the All-Stars will hold their own and add some legitimacy to the growing league.
On another note, Peter Novak's stellar record this season at D.C. United has earned him the right to coach the MLS All-Stars. He's certainly a name that ought to be mentioned as a potential successor to Bruce Arena. More on that tomorrow.
posted by jcanzo at 7:12 PM
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