Two clubs chasing the Clausura Liga MX title will do battle today in a playoff match between Toluca and Tijuana. The quarterfinal clash scheduled for 1 p.m. ET will be held at the Estadio Nemesio Díez Riega in Toluca and can be live streamed free through the Univision Deportes mobile app.
Though the first leg of this quarterfinal tie ended in a scoreless draw, Club Tijuana were predominantly the aggressors for 90 minutes. Los Xolos totaled 23 attempts, but only three managed to land on frame. A more pragmatic Toluca attempted eight, but still managed to land one more on target (four). Manager Jose Cardozo was criticized for his approach, but that didn't keep his goalkeeper, Alfredo Talavera, from coming to his defense (h/t to Goal). "Those were the circumstances on the pitch," Talavera said.
"Then, we failed in some aspects, but we were clearly going for the win," he added.
"[We just] didn't neglect the back, because one goal against us would cost us later."
"Now, we're going to play with the same reserve, but if we're focused and defend well, trying to score a goal as quick as possible and not concede, that will be a plus."
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Tactical Preview
Player to Watch: If Toluca are to show more attacking prowess tonight, it'll require the attacking talents of Isaac Brizuela. Sitting in the hole behind the striker, the 33-year-old provided three goals and two assists in 12 league starts this seaon.
Toluca's Projected Lineup (4-2-3-1): Talavera; Ponce, Silva, Dueñas, Gomez; Mathias, Rios; Benitez, Brizuela, Esquivel; Velazquez
Tijuana's Projected Lineup (4-3-3): Saucedo; Castillo, Pellerano, Gandolfi, Nuñez; Güemez, Pellerano, Arce; Martinez, Benedetto, Ruiz
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