August 9, 2012
The Houston Dynamo don't open their CONCACAF Champions League campaign for two more weeks, but the group action kicked off last week.
Houston is in Group 3 along with Olimpia (Honduras) and C.D. FAS (El Salvador).
Last week, Olimpia jumped out to the top of the standings with a 3-0 victory over FAS in Honduras. Olimpia, which are the reigning champions in Honduras, is the former club of Houston designated player Boniek Garcia. Gacia played for the Lions from 2007-2012 before joining the Dynamo on a full transfer.
C.D. FAS are the most decorated club in El Salvador, amassing 17 domestic titles. Last year, the Tigers finshed in the middle of the league table and are off to a poor start this season.
Olimpia showed they were the stronger club from the opening, with a goal in the 2' by former D.C. United designated player and MLS MVP Luciano Emilio. This is Emilio's third stint with Olimpia, a place where he has found success and won multiple scoring titles.
Olimpia would double their lead in the 17' with a perfect header by defender Juan Carlos Garcia off a corner kick. FAS couldn't muster an attack against Olimpia and didn't help their chances with a red card in the 69' by defender Nestor Renderos. It didn't take long for Olimpia to capitalize on the one man advantage, with Roger Rojas knocking in a loose ball in the 75' to seal the 3-0 victory.
Houston will face their first test in the CCL on August 22nd against FAS in El Salvador. The Dynamo have seen some success in the international tournament in the past, but have struggled on foreign ground. Depth will be tested as Houston will play four games (2 league, 2 CCL) in 12 days near the end of August.
The new format of the CCL sees only the top team in the group advance to the next stage, so getting a victory over FAS will be key to start Houston's run. Houston will play both teams on their turf prior to the second leg at BBVA Compass Stadium.
CCL Schedule for your Houston Dynamo:
- August 22 - at FAS (El Salvador)
- August 30 - at Olimpia (Honduras)
- September 20 - FAS (BBVACS)
- October 23 - Olimpia (BBVACS)
Full CCL Schedule here.
Full Group standings here.
Official CCL website here.
Enjoy the highlights of the Olimpia victory over FAS.
