It is unthinkable in American sports. Could you imagine the Houston Rockets, the New York Yankees or the Houston Astros opening their stadium up for free to fill it purely in the name of winning and getting a result?
Won’t happen but if it did what a great marketing tool for an NBA, NFL or MLB team.
Pachuca has done this for tonite’s game against the Houston Dynamo, this is about advancement and Pachuca is not worried about money at this point. That will come later if they advance against the Dynamo.
What a great move from Pachuca and what a statement…………a statement of respect for an MLS team the Houston Dynamo.
Now that is respect.

PS: Hats off to DC United for handling themselves wonderfully in Guadalajara after their 2-1 loss to Chivas. Players out of respect shook the hands of Chivas players. The same might not have been said for Pachuca in Houston after their loss a few weeks ago. The performance from DC reminds us that the two leagues are getting closer and closer together.

How do you know when a top flight Mexican futbol club is nervous and needing a victory…..they make the game free to the public.
We just found out that the club will be opening the gates to all comers. It should prove to make for an interesting atmosphere.
Enough about them though.
Training has gone well down here. Pachuca has a wonderful stadium and a great playing field. We went through our regular day before a game training session that had a light-hearted atmosphere. As a group we are still trying to hit form which isn’t likely for another two or three months, yet we are optimistic and enjoying our ride in the Concacaf tournament.
I think we clearly come in with an advantage being up two goals, however Pachuca is a very good team and even more importantly at their own home field. The elevation here is definetly going to play a factor in the game.
All things considered this is a great opportunity to advance in a major international competition. It would be a great achievment for us as a team and for MLS as a league. We are proud to represent our city and our fans and are hoping to bring another title to Houston. I know you will all be watching us so enjoy the game.
Craig Waibel