Hi everyone, I’m writing to you from Curitiba, Brazil from the training facilities of Athletico Paranaense. We have been here a week and we have played two matches. One here against a lower division club which we won 2-1 and one against Paranaense reserves which we tied 1-1. The game against Paranaense reserves was intense and competitive and we as a group are looking forward to playing their first team on Wednesday.
Other than that, it hasn’t been too eventful cause we are in a gated training facility with armed guards at the gate . Things we do in our free time is play ping pong, pool, and most importantly get on the internet. They have a really nice set-up if you brought a laptop where the internet connection is right next to your bed. (But I do believe that computers are taking away from human interaction….as I walk through the hall, I see everyone on my team on their computers not even saying a word to their roomates….lol ……Guys have gotten to the point where they are IMing each other from down the hall just so they won’t have to leave their room.)
Well, till next time this is Chris saying enjoy your family and football.
PS What to look forward in my next blog: FC Dallas midfielder Ramon Nunez who is also my roomate will be sharing his views about Brazil and the upcoming season.

Let me start by saying cheers to a couple of groups that truly deserve it. The Texian Army/El Battalon and the Screaming Eagles up in DC. Last night I realized how far this game has come and how dedicated the MLS fans are when the Texas AM Stadium filled up and black and red showed up in big numbers at RFK. Needless to say it is extremely important to have a “home field” atmosphere while competing in international games and both teams were provided that luxury last night.
I feel that there is no true favorite going into the semi-finals. Keep in mind that we have only been training for about a month. While the advantage goes to Chivas and Pachuca due to the fact that they have been playing competitive matches for a quite awhile, I think our character and talent level here in the MLS makes us very dangerous teams to play we are full of tenacious and extremely skilled players that desire big games and big wins.
Both teams representing MLS are very structured and disciplined sides that are tough to break down as well. Look for entertaining and emotional games in the weeks to come.
If you have any questions about the games or the league feel free to fire them at me.
Craig