2018 CONCACAF Champions League thread

[trane]

I think we have what it takes, to win the CL. We are the best team in CONCACAF.

Best 9 and 10, best play maker, best Center Defensive mid. Great CBs. Very solid Fullback. We play organized and can defend and attack. We can boss the midfield. We can score on anyone. We have very solid keeping. Vanney has become a trully great manager.

Lets win the fucking CL as well.

Best MLS team ever.

[Fort York Redcoat]

I think we have what it takes, to win the CL. We are the best team in CONCACAF.

Best 9 and 10, best play maker, best Center Defensive mid. Great CBs. Very solid Fullback. We play organized and can defend and attack. We can boss the midfield. We can score on anyone. We have very solid keeping. Vanney has become a trully great manager.

Lets win the fucking CL as well.

Best MLS team ever.

All aboard the Trane train! The travel opportunities alone! Cannot wait!

[Shakes McQueen]

Man, if we won the CCL...

This team would go into legend in North America. Forget just Canada, or MLS.

[whositwhatnow]

its going to be tough though, plus possibly playing in Feb at BMO, :drinking:

[woolly]

Even at our best, the rust is going to show against clubs in mid season form.... Remember that we were slow out of the gate at the beginning of the season.

I'm looking forward to hearing that the Reds will have a really, really short off-season to compensate for that.

[A Stick]

With expiring contracts and new TAM money, you just know that TFC is going bring in 3 more quality players for the CL run and to repeat as champions next season!

[portu]

We really need to improve in order to be a proper contender in CCL unless we can manage to get a lucky draw. 4 tam signings at striker, cm, centreback and right midfield should do it.

[MartinUtd]

One week until the draw and we can start making our winter vacation plans!

[MartinUtd]

Here's the breakdown of pots 1 & 2:



Rank
Slot
2012–13
2013–14
2014–15
2015–16
2016–17
Total
Team


1
MEX3
11
29
32
23
15
110
América


2
MEX1
16
22
11
33
27
109
UANL


3
MEX2
27
10
16
20
30
103
Guadalajara


4
MEX4
35
29
9
18
10
101
Tijuana


5
USA3
16
11
13
16
20
76
New York Red Bulls


6
CAN1
10
10
23
8
22
73
Toronto FC


7
USA1
20
17
11
14
11
73
Seattle Sounders FC


8
USA2
22
13
9
13
14
71
FC Dallas


9
USA4
11
16
20
16
8
71
Colorado Rapids


10
CRC1
16
19
12
10
8
65
Saprissa


11
CRC2
11
10
18
9
14
62
Herediano (wildcard)


12
HON1
9
11
15
10
11
56
Motagua


13
PAN1
4
15
4
10
20
53
Tauro


14
SLV1
4
8
4
7
9
32
Santa Tecla


15
CCC1
5
5
4
8
5
27
Cibao


16
SCL1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Olimpia





As far as accessibility goes here's a rough idea of what round-trip flights out of YYZ are currently going for:

Tegucigalpa: $720+
Panama City: $740+
San Salvador: $630+
San Jose: $540+
Puerto Plata: $670+ (I couldn't get prices directly to Santiago)
Denver: $550+

[Initial B]

Whoa there, some things to keep in mind.

We're probably going to lose some players to free agency and expansion drafts. It takes some time to integrate new players into a team. The form of TFC won't be as good as some of the Mexican teams, but they'll get at least one series to round into form before dealing with clubs like CA and Tigres. I'm not sure how strong Liga MX is this year, but they still have about 4 teams rated higher on 538's soccer club ranking index than TFC, so be wary.

[MartinUtd]

We'll still have a few weeks of pre-season to prep so we won't be coming in completely cold, but yeah that's far from playoff form or anything approaching it.

[Shway]

The reality I have is that, even with the expansion draft, our core will stay intact. Plus the factor that I trust Tim Bezzy will bring in even better quality then what will leave.

Greatness will be accomplished.

[wopchop]

Really excited for the Champions League. The core will remain intact after the draft and I think that this team is motivated enough to keep going and push for more and more. It certainly will not be easy for them, and the odds are really long, but I'm looking forward to seeing the same determination from the boys as they make a run for it. Never underestimate the power of team morale!

And oh boy was Jozy shammered at the parade, haha.

[ensco]

I will be there in February (in fact I can't wait) but won't get overly invested in “winning” Champions League.

I am just going to cheer for our heroes. They will give us their best.

[Parkdale]

All aboard the crazy Trane!

[Yohan]

To prep for CCL, do what IMFC did for their run to CCL final. Train in Mexico for most of the preseason and friendly games vs Mexican 2nd div teams.

Get a Costa Rican team for first knockout round. Get warmed up for the atmosphere and I'm sure Costa Ricans love playing in Toronto in the frigid Feb. Plus they provide decent competition.

Then steam roll through Mexican teams and other MLS teams to CCL glory.

We might lose a few games at the start of season next year, but I want CCL trophy. It'll be the exclamation mark.

[Jack]

https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/940288167181275136

[MartinUtd]

lol they've got my mate George's title belt

Amazing!

[Red CB Toronto]

I want that trip to the DR in the opening round to take on Cibao FC in their 5k stadium. I also wonder if Greg approaches the opening round depending on the opponent? Say it is Cibao does he go in with a full 1st team squad?

[Shway]

There's a potential for us to draw Colorado.

[Cas87]

There's a potential for us to draw Colorado.

Which is just what everyone wants -- Travels to Denver and Toronto in February ...

[catz4ever]

Im really regretting booking my husbands 40th birthday surprise vacate for the last week of February which I heard will be TFC's home game

[trane]

All aboard the crazy Trane!

I will serve shrimp cocktails on my train parky. Just for you.

[jeff r]

I want that trip to the DR in the opening round to take on Cibao FC in their 5k stadium. I also wonder if Greg approaches the opening round depending on the opponent? Say it is Cibao does he go in with a full 1st team squad?

pretty much get the win we wont be in top form i seen the stadium seating only on 1 side looks like they sell out. its only 1hr 45 mins away from resort town puerta plata

[jeff r]

Here's the breakdown of pots 1 & 2:



Rank
Slot
2012–13
2013–14
2014–15
2015–16
2016–17
Total
Team


1
MEX3
11
29
32
23
15
110
América


2
MEX1
16
22
11
33
27
109
UANL


3
MEX2
27
10
16
20
30
103
Guadalajara


4
MEX4
35
29
9
18
10
101
Tijuana


5
USA3
16
11
13
16
20
76
New York Red Bulls


6
CAN1
10
10
23
8
22
73
Toronto FC


7
USA1
20
17
11
14
11
73
Seattle Sounders FC


8
USA2
22
13
9
13
14
71
FC Dallas


9
USA4
11
16
20
16
8
71
Colorado Rapids


10
CRC1
16
19
12
10
8
65
Saprissa


11
CRC2
11
10
18
9
14
62
Herediano (wildcard)


12
HON1
9
11
15
10
11
56
Motagua


13
PAN1
4
15
4
10
20
53
Tauro


14
SLV1
4
8
4
7
9
32
Santa Tecla


15
CCC1
5
5
4
8
5
27
Cibao


16
SCL1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Olimpia





As far as accessibility goes here's a rough idea of what round-trip flights out of YYZ are currently going for:

Tegucigalpa: $720+
Panama City: $740+
San Salvador: $630+
San Jose: $540+
Puerto Plata: $670+ (I couldn't get prices directly to Santiago)
Denver: $550+


might as well paid 1300-1600 and saty for a week at at resort lol

[urdiub]

Going to Malta in the February (during the R16 away leg) for vacation. Have a friend from university that lives in Panama City and have been meaning to visit him since school finished. I swear if Toronto draws Tauro I'll be a little pissed off

[Red4ever]

Means Colorado is guaranteed to get a Mexican side.

edit: Never flying into Tegucigalpa

v_z5HtME9n8

[renda-10]

Means Colorado is guaranteed to get a Mexican side.

edit: Never flying into Tegucigalpa

v_z5HtME9n8

I flew into this airport before. It was pretty scary

[Brooker]

to it or into it?

[Areathrasher]

Going to Mexico for 10 days in preseason as CCL prep. Will play friendlies against Mexican sides.

The Impact did similar prior to their run to the final.

[Greatest Ripoff]

Going to Mexico for 10 days in preseason as CCL prep. Will play friendlies against Mexican sides.

The Impact did similar prior to their run to the final.

Great news.

[BakaGaijin]

What's really dumb is that if Toronto didn't win the Canadian Championship..........then the 2017 Supporters Shield Winner and the 2017 MLS Cup winner would not even be in the CONCACAF Championship.

[MartinUtd]

If we didn't win the Voyageurs cup this year we'd have entered a single elimination game with the 2016 winner for the Canadian CCL spot. Still annoying, but I'm glad we avoided that extra game during a loaded summer.

Speaking of schedules: Once the draw is made next week, will we know our path to the final?

[trane]

I am so hyped about this. I cannot wait.

Have the set a schedule yet?


( and who put that fancy title on my thread?)

[pfk]

I am so hyped about this. I cannot wait.

Have the set a schedule yet?


( and who put that fancy title on my thread?)




First leg
Second leg


Round of 16
February 20–22, 2018
February 27 – March 1, 2018


Quarter-finals
March 6–8, 2018
March 13–15, 2018


Semi-finals
April 3–5, 2018
April 10–12, 2018


Finals
April 17–19, 2018
April 24–26, 2018

[flatpicker]

Not sure if this has been addressed already,
But, let's say Toronto wins Champions League...
Is the Club World Cup not taking place right now, and during MLS playoffs?
How would that work?

[Gazza_55]

Not sure if this has been addressed already,
But, let's say Toronto wins Champions League...
Is the Club World Cup not taking place right now, and during MLS playoffs?
How would that work?

MLS will be moving the playoffs up this year so it's over in the first week in November

[flatpicker]

MLS will be moving the playoffs up this year so it's over in the first week in November

Oh yeah?
I missed that bit of news.
Does that mean earlier start to season, or just more condensed?

[Lennon]

Speaking of the Club World cup ..
We have a spot in our trophy case for a Champions League trophy. Where's the one for a CWC trophy? g:D

[Initial B]

^I've heard rumours that they'll go to a single-game elimination style format that will end the playoffs within a 3 week window. Play-in round -> Conference Semi -> Conference Final -> MLS Cup. If I had my Druthers, I would have Decision Day occur on the first Weekend after the October Break, with the Play-in Round on the Wed-Thurs, the Conference Semis on the Mon-Tues, the Conference finals on the Saturday, and the MLS Cup the following Saturday. It will put teams' depth to the test and make the whole experience pretty intense.

[General Woolfe]

Maybe we’re getting a bit ahead of ourselves with talk of winning this. Let’s not forget our relative lack of experience in the competition plus the timing of the games. Best to focus on getting out of our group then taken it one game at a time. I have to agree though, turning a treble into a quadruple would be something special

[Redpunkfiddle]

Going to Mexico for 10 days in preseason as CCL prep. Will play friendlies against Mexican sides.

The Impact did similar prior to their run to the final.

Where has this been announced?

[Red CB Toronto]

Where has this been announced?

At today's end of season press conference.

[JuWright]

So if we play in Toronto towards the end of February, would we play at BMO? Interesting to see if they can pull that off and if there are rules for how cold with wind chill before the game cannot be played?

[Section_105]

Where has this been announced?

Vanney gives the full info in his interview. LA for a bit, back here for a bit, then mexico with enough guys for 2 squads for intersqauad and games against mexican opponents to get ready for CCL.

[Section_105]

So if we play in Toronto towards the end of February, would we play at BMO? Interesting to see if they can pull that off and if there are rules for how cold with wind chill before the game cannot be played?

Manning in his press conference interview said they would all be played at BMO. will be hilarious if we draw colorado though and don't get the benefit of bringing a tropical team to colder climes.


edit -22c today with wind chill.....not a footy day.....

[ryan]

Manning in his press conference interview said they would all be played at BMO. will be hilarious if we draw colorado though and don't get the benefit of bringing a tropical team to colder climes.


edit -22c today with wind chill.....not a footy day.....

On the bright side Colorado is poo as a team.

[Section_105]

On the bright side Colorado is poo as a team.

Always look on the bright side of life, ;)

[James17930]

Manning in his press conference interview said they would all be played at BMO. will be hilarious if we draw colorado though and don't get the benefit of bringing a tropical team to colder climes.


edit -22c today with wind chill.....not a footy day.....

I'm still pretty skeptical about this. I almost think their plan is to just not care if the game gets postponed and reschedule it.

I still think Rogers Centre (if it can still take a football field) is the better option.

[General Woolfe]

Maybe we’re getting a bit ahead of ourselves with talk of winning this. Let’s not forget our relative lack of experience in the competition plus the timing of the games. Best to focus on getting out of our group then taken it one game at a time. I have to agree though, turning a treble into a quadruple would be something special
I stand corrected on the group thing. Didn’t realize they’d dropped it. Four rounds of home and away ties sounds doable if the early draws are kind. The idea of going straight to penalties after 90 minutes however does add an element of chance we could do without.

How nice would it be though to add this trophy to the three we won this year. Not sure if it would qualify as a bone fide quadruple but it would for me, and really put to bed this “best team ever” debate (if anyone is still arguing it)

[General Woolfe]

Does anyone know why all the MLS teams for the 2018 competition are winners from 2016 (Seattle, Colorado, Dallas, NYRB) and not 2017?

[SoccMan2]

MLS will be moving the playoffs up this year so it's over in the first week in November
How is that possible are they going to play through all the FIFA dates and force every team to play on FIFA dates , so the season will end in September then? The playoffs will start in the first week of October ? I have no problem with the current length of season most leagues around the world last about 9 month or so , I don’t see what the problem is so the MLS Cup might be played in cold weather so what, went to three of them in Toronto so far in cold weather nobody died , so are we all suppose to hibernate inside for six month of the year because it’s cold outside ? Please dress for the cold and you will be alright.

[molenshtain]

Does anyone know why all the MLS teams for the 2018 competition are winners from 2016 (Seattle, Colorado, Dallas, NYRB) and not 2017?

The competition was restructured and pushed back.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I stand corrected on the group thing. Didn’t realize they’d dropped it. Four rounds of home and away ties sounds doable if the early draws are kind. The idea of going straight to penalties after 90 minutes however does add an element of chance we could do without.

How nice would it be though to add this trophy to the three we won this year. Not sure if it would qualify as a bone fide quadruple but it would for me, and really put to bed this “best team ever” debate (if anyone is still arguing it)

The idea of going straight to penalties after 90 minutes it's a horrible horrible thing to do.
I do not think it's done in any major cup competition of the world.

Seriously, how much fucked in their heads the CONCACAF executives must be to come up with something like this!

:mad5:

[Redpunkfiddle]

The idea of going straight to penalties after 90 minutes it's a horrible horrible thing to do.
I do not think it's done in any major cup competition of the world.

Seriously, how much fucked in their heads the CONCACAF executives must be to come up with something like this!

:mad5:

Copa Libertadores only has extra time in the two legged final.

Copa America Centenario switched to it.

As long as away goals are used for tiebreaker not many matches go to extra time anyway. Teams are preferring not to be run into the ground on top of their domestic schedule.

[Cas87]

Does anyone know why all the MLS teams for the 2018 competition are winners from 2016 (Seattle, Colorado, Dallas, NYRB) and not 2017?


The competition was restructured and pushed back.

And for 2019, the MLS representatives will be the MLS Cup and US Open winners from 2017 and 2018 filling the spots.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2018%E2%80%9319_in_CONCACAF_club_competitions#Team s

And because we won 2017 MLS Cup, that team will now be the whomever does win a cup but has the most points over '17 and '18

[nonc]

I think I remember TFC playing Tauro some years ago and they were terrible, I mean Reggie Lamb torched them.

[Cas87]

I think I remember TFC playing Tauro some years ago and they were terrible, I mean Reggie Lamb torched them.

Played them in 2011-12
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011%E2%80%9312_CONCACAF_Champions_League_Group_St age#Group_C

[Red CB Toronto]

Played them in 2011-12
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011%E2%80%9312_CONCACAF_Champions_League_Group_St age#Group_C

That was the game where I think they grew the grass at their stadium 3-4 inches long, simply did cut it.

[trane]

Ok. How long to our next game????

[TheGoodson]

Ok. How long to our next game????

If the game is on the 28th of February 77 days away if the game is on the 1st of March 78 days

[Luanda]

Is it February yet?

[Ossington Mental Youth]

People shouldn't underrate Liga MX, it's a great league with a ton if offensive depth. Tigres are pretty fucking good.

[Auzzy]

So our next home game will be between Feb. 27 & March 1st (Tue-Thu).

Both Feb. 27 2014, and Feb. 27 2015, the high temperature in Toronto was -10 (lower than that with the windchill). As these are weekday evening games, it would have been a couple of degrees below -10 at game time.

Is there an official minimum temperature for a soccer game to be played?

[backbeat]

So our next home game will be between Feb. 27 & March 1st (Tue-Thu).

Both Feb. 27 2014, and Feb. 27 2015, the high temperature in Toronto was -10 (lower than that with the windchill). As these are weekday evening games, it would have been a couple of degrees below -10 at game time.

Is there an official minimum temperature for a soccer game to be played?


i agree, i'd like to know what the official minimum temperature is for a fifa soccer game.

the end of Feb and the beginning of March is so unpredictable

last year/2017 February 27, high +8.8; February 28, high +9.3; March 1, high +14; March 2, high -2.3; March 3, high -5.2; March 4, high -6.8:

you never know...

[Super]

i agree, i'd like to know what the official minimum temperature is for a fifa soccer game.

the end of Feb and the beginning of March is so unpredictable

last year/2017 February 27, high +8.8; February 28, high +9.3; March 1, high +14; March 2, high -2.3; March 3, high -5.2; March 4, high -6.8:

you never know...

Plus I read somewhere that we'd have a colder than normal December (so far that's been true) and a warmer than normal January and February. So my hope is that we'll have plus degrees come game time. Either way I'm going, but it would be nice if it wasn't in -10 degree weather.

[trane]

I would not mind a game at the Dome with 50000+ supporters.

[ensco]

People shouldn't underrate Liga MX, it's a great league with a ton if offensive depth. Tigres are pretty fucking good.

MLS are 3-28 all time against Liga MX in two legged ties in this tournament.

We are not favourites.

Also, I wish we were in Copa Libertadores instead of this. What I really want is a game against someone like Boca Juniors or Flamengo. I feel we earned that, somehow.

[C.Ronaldo]

is there a thread for updates on the grass conditions as we progress through the winter

weekly grass porn

[paul-collins]

is there a thread for updates on the grass conditions as we progress through the winter

weekly grass porn
Webcam

[TFC1154ever]

MLS are 3-28 all time against Liga MX in two legged ties in this tournament.

We are not favourites.

Also, I wish we were in Copa Libertadores instead of this. What I really want is a game against someone like Boca Juniors or Flamengo. I feel we earned that, somehow.

Funny you say that. There was rumour last year that the Copa Libertadores was considering allowing MLS teams to participate in the competition. They already invite Mexican teams. I think a MLS team winning the CONCACAF Champions League would speed up the conversation.

[nonc]

Hopefully Hagglund can stay healthy I believe he will be very important against Mexican teams.

[Yohan]

Funny you say that. There was rumour last year that the Copa Libertadores was considering allowing MLS teams to participate in the competition. They already invite Mexican teams. I think a MLS team winning the CONCACAF Champions League would speed up the conversation.
Liga MX chose not to participate in 2017 Copa Libertadores and no to 2018 edition also. Key reason Liga MX gave was that the new longer schedule was not good for Liga MX.

[CBTFC]

I would not mind a game at the Dome with 50000+ supporters.

Careful...them be triggering words 'round these parts ;)

[MightyDM]

MLS are 3-28 all time against Liga MX in two legged ties in this tournament.

We are not favourites.

Also, I wish we were in Copa Libertadores instead of this. What I really want is a game against someone like Boca Juniors or Flamengo. I feel we earned that, somehow.

oh my god Ensco, you are on fire. The bonbonera ( spelling?). Incredible, I’d drop everything to fly to BA to see TFC play there. Cost be damned.

[Defoe]

I would not mind a game at the Dome with 50000+ supporters.

If this is a possibility Toronto FC management should consider it. Keep the players warm. If it's -20 and a blizzard, BMO is just not suitable in my opinion.

[MartinUtd]

I thought the reason the Argo's were leaving Skydome (it's real name) was because the Jay's didn't want to share their new grass surface.

[Ultra & Proud]

I thought the reason the Argo's were leaving Skydome (it's real name) was because the Jay's didn't want to share their new grass surface.

And that's it. They allow nothing on their new dirt infield.

[portu]

MLS are 3-28 all time against Liga MX in two legged ties in this tournament.

We are not favourites.

Also, I wish we were in Copa Libertadores instead of this. What I really want is a game against someone like Boca Juniors or Flamengo. I feel we earned that, somehow.
This.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

MLS are 3-28 all time against Liga MX in two legged ties in this tournament.

We are not favourites.

Also, I wish we were in Copa Libertadores instead of this. What I really want is a game against someone like Boca Juniors or Flamengo. I feel we earned that, somehow.

This!
Any MLS team in a big underdog in the CONCACAF Champs League.

I say that getting to the final would be a huge accomplishment, equal with that of winning this year the MLS Cup.
Winning it will be lot higher accomplishment that the MLS cup, even with so many participating teams not really caring about the competition, because only that would really put TFC on the World's football map.

I never did pay attention how Montreal was playing when they got to the CONCACAF Champs league final, but knowing their value over the years I must say it was a fluke in a way or another. Either they were simply lucky, getting crucial bounces in their favour in most of all those games, either the better teams they played did not care much about the competition, or they grossly undervalued Montreal.

[Oldtimer]

I never did pay attention how Montreal was playing when they got to the CONCACAF Champs league final, but knowing their value over the years I must say it was a fluke in a way or another. Either they were simply lucky, getting crucial bounces in their favour in most of all those games, either the better teams they played did not care much about the competition, or they grossly undervalued Mintral.

It wasn't a fluke and it wasn't lucky bounces. I watched it. Montréal was actually quite strong and played to a higher level in that competition, which they took very seriously. Their top players were up to it, what they lacked was depth and that final bit of quality to win it all.

TFC has that quality and depth. I would say Toronto is still an underdog, but much more likely to pull off a win.

[SoccMan2]

This!
Any MLS team in a big underdog in the CONCACAF Champs League.

I say that getting to the final would be a huge accomplishment, equal with that of winning this year the MLS Cup.
Winning it will be lot higher accomplishment that the MLS cup, even with so many participating teams not really caring about the competition, because only that would really put TFC on the World's football map.

I never did pay attention how Montreal was playing when they got to the CONCACAF Champs league final, but knowing their value over the years I must say it was a fluke in a way or another. Either they were simply lucky, getting crucial bounces in their favour in most of all those games, either the better teams they played did not care much about the competition, or they grossly undervalued Mintral.
A fluke I guess you won’t watching, Montreal deserved to make that final but in the end the Mexican team was just the better team, however for an MLS team it was a great run and well deserved.

[Redcoe15]

If any MLS side can capture the CONCACAF Champions League title, it's our boys in red!
:flare::drum::scarf::drum: :flare:

[Lennon]

MLS is 3-28 vs. Mexican teams but keep in mind that MLS has gotten a lot better since those games were played.

We're the best team in MLS history and we're only going to get better with the extra cap $.

[barticusz]

The draw is tomorrow. Very curious to see what the path for TFC will be.

[RealG-TFC]

The draw is tomorrow. Very curious to see what the path for TFC will be.

Indeed, hopefully we could avoid playing America or UANL until the end. I think those two scare me the most.

[Redpunkfiddle]

First off:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXkABEg-miQ


Second, the draw will reveal a lot about our path. It determines the bracket for the whole tourney, so if Mexican or MLS sides load up on either half it will make a difference. Also, we'd prefer to be drawn in the 1,3,5,7 slots as those teams get to host the quarterfinal return leg. The semi final and final second leg are hosted by the team that has the most points (Win Loss Draws} in the earlier rounds. So it is better to get the weakest opponent early on and smash them.

[OgtheDim]

Most points?

Its a series of 2 leg series.

[Redpunkfiddle]

Most points?

Its a series of 2 leg series.

So it is. Yes the teams advance based on the usual 2 leg aggregate system. But the ranking to determine who hosts the 2nd leg in the semis and finals is done by comparing points from earlier series {Win Loss Draws} as the first tiebreaker., then goal difference, etc. So if a team wins all their 4 Rd16 and QF games individually and has 12 'points' they get to host 2nd leg semi final over a team that won 3 and drew 1.

The Concacaf League used it earlier this year:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2017_CONCACAF_League_Finals

Would a team go for a win when they are in a position to advance with a draw? Probably not, but that's the rule.

[James17930]

Anyone know if this first CONCACAF League was considered successful or not? I mean, the whole point of this restructuring was to give the smaller clubs 'more meaningful games,' so I wonder if the fans turned out or not.

Also, an interesting note is that in both the CL and CCL, there is no extra time in the 2nd leg if the score is tied. It just goes straight to penalties (at least, according to the Wikipedia article).

That's ... different. Anyone know the reasoning there?

[JuliquE]

Also, an interesting note is that in both the CL and CCL, there is no extra time in the 2nd leg if the score is tied. It just goes straight to penalties (at least, according to the Wikipedia article).

That's ... different. Anyone know the reasoning there?
It's been mentioned elsewhere that teams didn't want to worry about playing an extra half hour, as it's already such a condensed tourney, of course played in between regular season games.

[matteo30]

Wondering with this tournament since i'm really ignorant on the subject How does the opponent for Round one work? Everyone in Pot 1 plays someone in pot 2?

[Oldtimer]

Wondering with this tournament since i'm really ignorant on the subject How does the opponent for Round one work? Everyone in Pot 1 plays someone in pot 2?

Yes.

[Gringo Starr]

Assuming no one from pot 2 makes it through the round of sixteen who do people hope to play next round? Avoiding the Mexicans until the end would be nice, RedBulls I think would be the tougher Mls team, Dallas probably the easiest but I wouldn't mind another go at Seatle

[Blindside16]

Assuming no one from pot 2 makes it through the round of sixteen who do people hope to play next round? Avoiding the Mexicans until the end would be nice, RedBulls I think would be the tougher Mls team, Dallas probably the easiest but I wouldn't mind another go at Seatle


Those are the prefered. If we have to face a Mexican side in the quarters I hope it's either Tijuana or Chivas. I want to avoid Tigres and Club America as long as possible

[Blindside16]

On a side note, does anyone know if the draw will be televised?

[Redpunkfiddle]

On a side note, does anyone know if the draw will be televised?

It is- on Univision, Fox sports Latin America at least. Don't know what kind of availability there will be.

[TheGoodson]

when is the draw..

[Redpunkfiddle]

when is the draw..

The draw is at 7pm

[trane]

Que’est-ce-que vous chante (https://www.google.ca/search?client=firefox-b&dcr=0&q=Que+est+que+vous+chante&spell=1&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjPqMXe_5PYAhWj7YMKHUb2DlwQBQgkKAA&biw=1920&bih=968)?????

[Redpunkfiddle]

On a side note, does anyone know if the draw will be televised?

Shown on concacaf.com and their facebook page.

[RedsYNWA]

We are the 5th strongest team there behind all 4 of the Mexican clubs... I would rate TFC to be a mid table team in Mexico. We should crush our 1st opponents & try to avoid Tigres in the later stages (with Enner Valencia, Gignac, Aquino & Vargas) who IMO are the class of the competition followed by America.

[Initial B]

According to FiveThirtyEight, we're the 2nd strongest team in the competition. Here are the rankings for the CCL MLS/Liga MX clubs:

56.0 - Tigres UNAL
47.5 - TFC
43.3 - Seattle Sounders
42.4 - Tijuana
42.1 - New York Red Bulls
40.8 - Club America
40.4 - Chivas Guadalajara
32.9 - FC Dallas
20.5 - Colorado Rapids

I'd like to see a Tigres-TFC final, please. :cool:

[ouderwien]

Shown on concacaf.com and their facebook page.

The video on the website is not available in Canada.

[Kayaker]

The draw is on TSN go......

[mowe]

The draw is on TSN go......

Thanks for the tip!

[TFC07]

You need to be cable subscriber to use TSN GO app to watch the Draw.

[flatpicker]

You need to be cable subscriber to use TSN GO app to watch the Draw.

To be honest, it's probably a blessing if you are unable to watch this broadcast.
It's rather painful.

[mowe]

2 Mexican clubs on the same side of the bracket so far...

[Redpunkfiddle]

Draw is on! We can see the slotting as it happens at least. America and Tigres in the same half of bracket... hopefully we can get the other side.

http://www.concacaf.com/video/tune-in-to-the-scotiabank-concacaf-champions-league-2018-draw

[Redpunkfiddle]

Nope! We get Tigres in QF and America in SF likely. Ha!

[RealG-TFC]

Faacck

[mowe]

We're in very tough. Same side as Tigres and Club America.

[JoeM]

Draw is on! We can see the slotting as it happens at least. America and Tigres in the same half of bracket... hopefully we can get the other side.

http://www.concacaf.com/video/tune-in-to-the-scotiabank-concacaf-champions-league-2018-draw


Huh? We couldn't play either of them in the first round anyway no matter how the draw works out.

[notthesun]

I believe with that draw we would likely play Tigres 2nd round if we advance. Damn.

[JoeM]

We're Pot A. Meaning the higher seeded teams. Could only be drawn against pot B - it was impossible for us to play Tigres or America.

[RealG-TFC]

Welp, it's not going to be easy boys.

[Redpunkfiddle]

We're Pot A. Meaning the higher seeded teams. Could only be drawn against pot B - it was impossible for us to play Tigres or America.

We are talking about the QF and SF = the bracket is laid out so our r16 winner faces Tigres or their opponent etc

[JoeM]

We are talking about the QF and SF = the bracket is laid out so our r16 winner faces Tigres or their opponent etc


Thanks for that. Was extremely confused lol I'm worrying about the r16 before getting ahead to the mexican powerhouses. We'd have to face them eventually anyways if we're going to do this.

[sn0re]

We have a chance to face the rapids?!..

Edit: LOL

[Redpunkfiddle]

And of course, Colorado

[fergiejr]

It's the Rapids. Colorado in Feb. Yeesh.

[notthesun]

So Colorado, then likely Tigres, then likely Club America or Dallas and then the final. That's our path.

Gonna be tough as hell but I can't wait.

[Bobo]

Was hoping for a taste of some weak CA opponents. Oh well.

[wopchop]

Hahaha .. the much feared winter classic will soon be upon us!

[mowe]

Hoping for a Herediano and Saprissa upset...

[Redpunkfiddle]

Well that's all balls/gonna earn it. We even got the slot that makes us play away in the 2nd leg in the QF

[dreaddogs]

Either way. It's only two months away

[notthesun]

Kinda funny we planned a Mexican preseason only to get the Rapids. Guess we gotta beat them to make it worthwhile!

[JoeM]

Was hoping for a taste of some weak CA opponents. Oh well.

Likewise. Hopefully the preseason in Mexico gets the boys ready for the over the top flopping and other nonsense CONCACAF-ing that goes on. If/when we get through Colorado, it's a whole new animal.

[RedsYNWA]

Well that was the absolute worse case scenario face the best Pot 2 team in Rd 1 followed by a QF test vs the best team in the region :facepalm:

[nonc]

Not the best draw for TFC, really bad draw for Tigres.

[reggie]

typical concacrap fixed like the gold cup.wanting a mex- us final

[charlieocc]

The only upside of potentially playing Tigres second round is that hopefully it’ll still be cold here

[ensco]

Jeez, guys, this is great. Tigres are the best team in Mexico.

I don’t care when we play them, I just want to play them!

btw Monterrey is a relatively safe, fun away trip

[tfcfans]

Th reality is the thing was set up to have an MLS vs Mexican QF for all teams so it's not like there was an easy draw likely for any MLS team.....frankly playing Colorado is no worse than playing some of the other minnows and frankly better than playing the teams from Costa Rica - I did not want Saprissa in Round 1.....if we can't beat a crappy Colorado team than that is on us.....

[Kayaker]

Just thought of the silver lining to the draw.

We have a bunch of TAM to spend this year. Assuming we're looking at prospects in Latin America, how is our pitch improved that we will play Tigres and possibly America?

[Bobo]

Not counting chickens, but do we have an idea when the QFs will take place? Would love it to be just before the MLS season starts so (in case we get there) we don't have to worry about rotations.

[RealG-TFC]

Jeez, guys, this is great. Tigres are the best team in Mexico.

I don’t care when we play them, I just want to play them!

btw Monterrey is a relatively safe, fun away trip

I guess that is a positive way of looking at it.

In a way, this road is sort of like our playoffs. The opponents to get to the final will be the hardest. If we manage to get through that, we would be battle hardened for whoever reaches the end from the other side of the bracket.

[sn0re]

Not counting chickens, but do we have an idea when the QFs will take place? Would love it to be just before the MLS season starts so (in case we get there) we don't have to worry about rotations.

Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League 2018 Match Date Windows
Round of 16: February 20-22 and February 27- March 1, 2018
Quarterfinals: March 6-8 and March 13-15, 2018
Semifinals: April 3-5 and April 10-12, 2018
Finals: April 17-19 and April 24-26, 2018

[tfcfans]

Round of 16
February 20–22, 2018
February 27 – March 1, 2018


Quarter-finals
March 6–8, 2018
March 13–15, 2018


Semi-finals
April 3–5, 2018
April 10–12, 2018


Finals
April 17–19, 2018
April 24–26, 2018



Sorry - just saw the post above

We could end up playing at BMO in back to back weeks to start March if we beat Colorado and draw Tigres in the QF --- if (heaven forbid) we lost to Tigres (if the tournament goes according to seed), at least it pretty much aligns with the start of the regular MLS season.....

[Ultra & Proud]

Seattle - Toronto final.

[flatpicker]

Seattle - Toronto final.

lol

That would be hilarious.

[Detroit_TFC]

If TFC can get through that bracket, won't be any questions about who's the best MLS team in history.

[Globetrotter]

Step 1 - beat Colorado at all costs.

Step 2 - you play the best on the continent. Whether it's the finals or not - doesn't matter. If you lose, you weren't suppose to win in the first place. If you win, think of what that means - and for the psychological state of everyone else in the tournament. Toronto would have to believe they could go in and pound it out with anyone else in the tournament... and everyone else in still in it would likely have eyes wide open to the fact that Toronto can beat a team like Tigres.

We should be excited about getting the chance to play a number of really good teams.

[Fort York Redcoat]

Boooooooring. Any team outside MLS would've got me thinking travel. I know there's plenty to do in Colorado but I can do that almost any other year.

[wopchop]

RT flights to Denver for Feb20-22 are about $406 CDN right now.

[Red CB Toronto]

RT flights to Denver for Feb20-22 are about $406 CDN right now.

Detroit is about $175 return.

[wopchop]

Detroit is about $175 return.
Bloody YYZ.

[Initial B]

This is crazy. They have the two highest ranked teams in FiveThirtyEight's rankings facing each other in the Quarterfinals. I just realized that there was no possible first-round opponent *but* Colorado, since the US and Mexican teams aren't allowed to play each other. That means that no matter what happens each year, the Canadian team is going to face an MLS team in the first round.

[wopchop]

This is crazy. They have the two highest ranked teams in FiveThirtyEight's rankings facing each other in the Quarterfinals. I just realized that there was no possible first-round opponent *but* Colorado, since the US and Mexican teams aren't allowed to play each other. That means that no matter what happens each year, the Canadian team is going to face an MLS team in the first round.

I believe the rule was that teams from same association cannot face each other, not federation.

All the Mexican and US clubs (except Colorado) couldn't be drawn against each other because they were all in Pot 1. So Colorado could have only drawn America, Tijuana, UANL, Guadalajara, or us.

[OgtheDim]

The one boring team

But then, if we get through that, the biggest test of them all.

[Initial B]

Actually, Colorado will be a good test for if they have to face Club America at Azteca. 7000 feet and 10000 feet are close enough air pressure, aren't they?

[Red CB Toronto]

Actually, Colorado will be a good test for if they have to face Club America at Azteca. 7000 feet and 10000 feet are close enough air pressure, aren't they?

The USA Costa Rica World Cup Qualifer in a blizzard at Dick's Sporting Goods was played on March 22, 2013. Would be wild if this game was to be played in similar conditions.

[ensco]

OK, we have to get through Colorado, but then Tigres at BMO in early March? Holy shit I can hardly wait.

[bones]

So we play the Rapids 20, or 21 or 22. If it's the 22nd this could be an interesting 2 day mini sports trip as the Nuggets play the Spurs at the Pepsi Center on the 23rd.

[Red CB Toronto]

OK, we have to get through Colorado, but then Tigres at BMO in early March? Holy shit I can hardly wait.

I will be curious to see how packed BMO is for a match vs Colorado is late February, will the hype of being a championship team pack it? I don't know.

[MartinUtd]

Here's the bracket

https://i.imgur.com/kn9LwOO.png

[Bobo]

Actually, Colorado will be a good test for if they have to face Club America at Azteca. 7000 feet and 10000 feet are close enough air pressure, aren't they?

True, although I think Colorado's stadium is 5000 feet, so Azteca's altitude would be even worse. This poses an obstacle I hadn't initially thought of. Colorado really isn't the place you want to go for your first competitive game of the season. Hopefully TFC spends at least a week training there to help adjust.

[DinamoTFC]

Could someone please explain to me why Mexico and many other Latino countries have 2 championships within a single season (apertura and clausura)? Why?

Coming from a european background (meaning not familiar with it) It almost feels like a participaton award. You get a trophy, he gets a trophy, she gets a trophy, everyone gets a trophy.

At least the NASL soccer bowl (which does something similar) uses playoffs to connect the 2 seasons together. But based on Wikipedia in Mexico it looks like there are 2 champions per season.

[Blindside16]

Step 1 - beat Colorado at all costs.

Step 2 - you play the best on the continent. Whether it's the finals or not - doesn't matter. If you lose, you weren't suppose to win in the first place. If you win, think of what that means - and for the psychological state of everyone else in the tournament. Toronto would have to believe they could go in and pound it out with anyone else in the tournament... and everyone else in still in it would likely have eyes wide open to the fact that Toronto can beat a team like Tigres.

We should be excited about getting the chance to play a number of really good teams.

This!! I don't want to get ahead of myself but seeing a TFC - Tigres matchup at BMO would be almost surreal. Is it February yet?

[Adamo23]

A little off topic but do we get a Champions League patch instead of the MLS patch on the shoulders? I'd buy that jersey in a heartbeat if they end up doing that.

[Red CB Toronto]

A little off topic but do we get a Champions League patch instead of the MLS patch on the shoulders? I'd buy that jersey in a heartbeat if they end up doing that.

Thats always been the case. This year should be no different

[James17930]

Thats always been the case. This year should be no different

But it's always a sticker, not an actual patch, no?

I remember them falling off mid-game before.

[djcuse]

A little off topic but do we get a Champions League patch instead of the MLS patch on the shoulders? I'd buy that jersey in a heartbeat if they end up doing that.

This is what last years looked like. They usually just applied it over top of the "MLS" badge

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/fJgAAOSwFdtXzjlb/s-l500.jpg

[Redpunkfiddle]

Could someone please explain to me why Mexico and many other Latino countries have 2 championships within a single season (apertura and clausura)? Why?

Coming from a european background (meaning not familiar with it) It almost feels like a participaton award. You get a trophy, he gets a trophy, she gets a trophy, everyone gets a trophy.

At least the NASL soccer bowl (which does something similar) uses playoffs to connect the 2 seasons together. But based on Wikipedia in Mexico it looks like there are 2 champions per season.

I'm pretty sure it's for financial reasons. It started in the mid 90s. Two short tournaments give teams more of chance to be in the hunt. And as they use playoffs, there are more revenue boosting high profile/attended games.

Despite being a passionate football landscape, they felt they needed to boost opportunities for teams.

[Areathrasher]

Tigres in the quarters? No bueno.

[TheGoodson]

At the end of the day, we are good enough to beat who ever is in front of us...

Bring on Tigres, America who ever CL is ours

[Joe Kool]

Damn...we get back to the CCL and now we play an MLS team. I used to love seeing us play the other teams from the region. Kind of a bummer but at least they will be in preseason form as well I guess. I am sure they will just park the bus, play for 0-0 most of the game then hope to nick one goal to carry them through. Some real exciting stuff there to look forward to.

[C.Ronaldo]

anyone know how Colorado made it in?

[Red4ever]

anyone know how Colorado made it in?

Supporter's shield runners up cause Dallas won the US open cup and the shield.

[charlieocc]

anyone know how Colorado made it in?

I think it’s because they were second in SS standings last year, and FC Dallas already got in by winning the US Open Cup

[Cas87]

anyone know how Colorado made it in?

As the runner-up for the Supporters Shield in 2016 (because FC Dallas claimed 2 of the possible ways to qualify; Shield and US Open Cup) the last spot is given to the next best qualified.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2018_CONCACAF_Champions_League#Teams

[Red4ever]

THREE! THREE ANSWERS MUWA HA HA HA HA!
http://i.imgur.com/UgigYkO.png

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Tigres in the quarters? No bueno.

Yep... no bueno at all.
I feel we were concacaffed big time at this draw by the football Gods.

If we see FTC playing in the semifinals, that would be a HUGE accomplishment to crown this 2017 season.
On a second thought, I stand corrected: that would be HUMONGOUS!

[Gringo Starr]

Vamos Los Rojos

we can still do this!


Tigres in the quarters? No bueno.

[C.Ronaldo]

I think it’s because they were second in SS standings last year, and FC Dallas already got in by winning the US Open Cup


wait, 2016 results for 2018 entry?

its works on two years cycles?

so TFC winning Canada cup in 2017, is for 2019?

[Cas87]

wait, 2016 results for 2018 entry?

its works on two years cycles?

so TFC winning Canada cup in 2017, is for 2019?

Because they re-did the format 2016 MLS qualifiers go into 2018 (except us, we needed to win both 2016 and 2017 Canadian Championships).

For the 2019 CCL, MLS will be sending the MLS and US Open cup winners for 2017 and 2018.

[paul-collins]

True, although I think Colorado's stadium is 5000 feet, so Azteca's altitude would be even worse. This poses an obstacle I hadn't initially thought of. Colorado really isn't the place you want to go for your first competitive game of the season. Hopefully TFC spends at least a week training there to help adjust.
Minimum 3 weeks required. 1 week is just enough to get really sick. You're almost better off staying low until game day if you can't get 3 to 6 weeks in at altitude.

Edited to add, if we think elevation will be an issue later (San Nicolas is only 500m, so game 2 won't be that issue) we could train in Banff to keep any elevation gains. Not much else in Canada to get the benefits.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Minimum 3 weeks required. 1 week is just enough to get really sick. You're almost better off staying low until game day if you can't get 3 to 6 weeks in at altitude.

You are right.
TFC should do not a 10 day training stage in Mexico, but at least one of 18 days, and at high altitude.

I know that money spent does not count much comparing 10 days with 18 days, for a club backed by MLSE ...but!
...It would cost the club less than spending a lot less time somewhere in the USA... Mexico is still a 3rd world country, and everything is cheaper!

There is still a lots of time to change a little bit on the preseason schedule, and maybe they will do it, now when they do know the first CONCACAF opponent, and for 95% sure the opponent in the quarterfinals.

[trane]

I am excited. Lets get by Colorado first, and then worry about Tigers.

I am very pumped for this.

[C.Ronaldo]

Because they re-did the format 2016 MLS qualifiers go into 2018 (except us, we needed to win both 2016 and 2017 Canadian Championships).

For the 2019 CCL, MLS will be sending the MLS and US Open cup winners for 2017 and 2018.


and i thought explaining home and away playoff games was difficult to explain to my non soccer friends

[JuliquE]

Step 1 - beat Colorado at all costs.

Step 2 - you play the best on the continent. Whether it's the finals or not - doesn't matter. If you lose, you weren't suppose to win in the first place. If you win, think of what that means - and for the psychological state of everyone else in the tournament. Toronto would have to believe they could go in and pound it out with anyone else in the tournament... and everyone else in still in it would likely have eyes wide open to the fact that Toronto can beat a team like Tigres.

We should be excited about getting the chance to play a number of really good teams.
Admittedly, at first, I had a deep intake of breath at our draw.

But, then, this were my subsequent view, once it set in.

I want this!

[djking2]

Could someone please explain to me why Mexico and many other Latino countries have 2 championships within a single season (apertura and clausura)? Why?

Coming from a european background (meaning not familiar with it) It almost feels like a participaton award. You get a trophy, he gets a trophy, she gets a trophy, everyone gets a trophy.

At least the NASL soccer bowl (which does something similar) uses playoffs to connect the 2 seasons together. But based on Wikipedia in Mexico it looks like there are 2 champions per season.

arpetura and clausura (opening and closing)

two tournaments separated by the christmas and summer breaks fit the Fifa schedule. Followed by a Championship match between the two winners

[reggie]

wont the mex teams be in pre season in feb and march

[Cas87]

wont the mex teams be in pre season in feb and march

Not really, their season is split in two (as stated in the posts above).
They only get a 2-4 week break (depending on if you make the playoffs or not), arguably they will still be in top form as the Clausura will be 6 or 7 weeks in by the time the CCL begins

[DinamoTFC]

arpetura and clausura (opening and closing)

two tournaments separated by the christmas and summer breaks fit the Fifa schedule. Followed by a Championship match between the two winners

Thanks i think some leagues do but nothing online about liga mx winners playing eachother.

[Cas87]

Thanks i think some leagues do but nothing online about liga mx winners playing eachother.

the Supercopa MX
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercopa_MX

[Redpunkfiddle]

Thanks i think some leagues do but nothing online about liga mx winners playing eachother.

The Aperatura and Clausura champions do not play each other for any title. If they do, its more like that Community Shield thing. Mostly ceremonial.

[DinamoTFC]

the Supercopa MX
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercopa_MX


The Aperatura and Clausura champions do not play each other for any title. If they do, its more like that Community Shield thing. Mostly ceremonial.

Yea more like a supercup (ceremonial)which isn't the same thing as crowning a season chanpion. Thanks for the replies guys.

[ManUtd4ever]

Oh well. Nobody said it was going to be easy. We definitely have our work cut out for us, but I think we have the talent and the depth to make a run.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Oh well. Nobody said it was going to be easy. We definitely have our work cut out for us, but I think we have the talent and the depth to make a run.

Getting to the quarterfinals and going out with fight would be considered a deep enough run, given the circumstances?

[Luanda]

Dates just posted on TFC website

Feb 20, 10pm in Colorado and Feb 27, 8pm in Toronto

[TFC1154ever]

Fuck me. In Florida during the return leg. Can’t they push it back one more day? :(. Hoping a blizzard hits, and it’s pushed back one more day :)

[Hamilton_Red]

8 PM kick-off in February...:yikes: :chillpill: :ack2: :dita:

[Jack]

Those are going to be some chilly games.

[James17930]

I still think it's ... (being diplomatic) ... not the best idea to hold these games at BMO.

I half-suspect they know there's a decent chance the game could get re-scheduled and they just don't mind.

But also – why did CONCACAF schedule the tournament like this? Why does it HAVE to start in Feb. and finish in late April? Why not start in March and have it finish in May? Seems reasonable to me.

[Yohan]

I still think it's ... (being diplomatic) ... not the best idea to hold these games at BMO.

I half-suspect they know there's a decent chance the game could get re-scheduled and they just don't mind.

But also – why did CONCACAF schedule the tournament like this? Why does it HAVE to start in Feb. and finish in late April? Why not start in March and have it finish in May? Seems reasonable to me.
Prob because of Liga MX Clausura schedule.

[OgtheDim]

For those wondering about the Rapids for next season, this from Matt Doyle pretty much sums up what is happening out there:


And that's freed up new coach Anthony Hudson to sign a mix of 30-something Scandinavians and New Zealand internationals in what appears to be an earnest attempt to replicate the early-season success Minnesota United had last year.

[ensco]

Why on earth aren’t those Colorado games on weekend afternoons? It's fricking February...

There's no Mexican conflict, and no TV issue (these games will get tiny TV ratings)

Not even 7pm, but 8pm.

It's as if someone is determined to pick the stupidest possible start time.

I bet there are 1,000 people at that game in Denver.

Part of me thinks the two teams should petition FIFA to play both games in Florida at a neutral site. Just because of injury risk.

[MightyDM]

Why on earth aren’t those Colorado games on weekend afternoons? It's fricking February...

There's no Mexican conflict, and no TV issue (these games will get tiny TV ratings)

Not even 7pm, but 8pm.

It's as if someone is determined to pick the stupidest possible start time.

I bet there are 1,000 people at that game in Denver.

Part of me thinks the two teams should petition FIFA to play both games in Florida at a neutral site. Just because of injury risk.
Spot on ensco, it is absurd. And its concacaaf, so we know the only factors considered were about the good of the game.

[molenshtain]

Fucking Colorado. I was hoping to get a nice vacation somewhere near the equator. That looks mighty unlikely now. Ruined my spring this does.

[OgtheDim]

We start the season with 3 games in 11 days. If we get past Colorado, even if MLS gives us a week off on the weekend of March 10, we are talking 6 games in 25 days.


Going to need to find a 3rd forward and another AM behind Vasquez.

[Auzzy]

Why on earth aren’t those Colorado games on weekend afternoons? It's fricking February...

There's no Mexican conflict, and no TV issue (these games will get tiny TV ratings)

Not even 7pm, but 8pm.

It's as if someone is determined to pick the stupidest possible start time.

I bet there are 1,000 people at that game in Denver.

Part of me thinks the two teams should petition FIFA to play both games in Florida at a neutral site. Just because of injury risk.

I agree!

Now that the return date has also been set: both Feb. 27 2014, and Feb. 27 2015, the high temperature in Toronto was -10 (lower than that with the windchill). As these are weekday evening games, it would have been a couple of degrees below -10 at game time. By the end of the game, windchill could easily pass -20 down by the lake.


Is there an official minimum temperature for a CONCACAF game to be played?

[reggie]

i really enjoy CCL.but this jus plain stupid with no regards for the players and the fans.

[James17930]

Is there an official minimum temperature for a CONCACAF game to be played?

Couldn't find any info on either CONCACAF or FIFA guidelines, but this article gives a bit of insight on cold weather matches:

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/dec/15/the-knowledge-cold-football-matches

[Fort York Redcoat]

I can't wait for midweek Champions League matches. I don't care what temp it is. It's crazy. Crazy special. What takes away from it is that we play an MLS team. As mentioned above the only visible difference will be how small the crowd is. Shame.

This tourney is going to take a long time to grow.

Unfortunately until MLS teams start winning and moving on the insular NA sports fan won't take it in fully.

[Redpunkfiddle]

The games will be played midweek because that's the tournament schedule and it is dictated. This isn't MLS and there isn't any control over it.

There will be opportunities for MLS to help us out by rescheduling league matches if we progress. That's been done in the past.

[ensco]

The games will be played midweek because that's the tournament schedule and it is dictated. This isn't MLS and there isn't any control.

This isn't an explanation, this is just describing walruses thumping chests.

There is no interest that Concacaf should have in seeing these games played at a suboptimal time that reduces the gate. They should be open to approaches by both teams, if changing something doesn’t give a competitive advantage to the winner of the tie. A threshold this meets.

[paul-collins]

I agree!

Now that the return date has also been set: both Feb. 27 2014, and Feb. 27 2015, the high temperature in Toronto was -10 (lower than that with the windchill). As these are weekday evening games, it would have been a couple of degrees below -10 at game time. By the end of the game, windchill could easily pass -20 down by the lake.


Is there an official minimum temperature for a CONCACAF game to be played?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doWnqN8GJ4c

[redcard]

I can't wait for midweek Champions League matches. I don't care what temp it is. It's crazy. Crazy special. What takes away from it is that we play an MLS team. As mentioned above the only visible difference will be how small the crowd is. Shame.

This tourney is going to take a long time to grow.

Unfortunately until MLS teams start winning and moving on the insular NA sports fan won't take it in fully.

With all the attention that the MLS Cup brought for TFC I hope that translates to be a decent crowd for the CCL match.

[Oldtimer]

With all the attention that the MLS Cup brought for TFC I hope that translates to be a decent crowd for the CCL match.

February at minus 10 will only attract the hardcore. March mid week may attract casual fans.

[SoccMan2]

It’s not a big deal anymore about playing soccer in cold weather, it’s been a few years now that a few games have been played in cold weather going all the way back to the first MLS Cup neutral game played at BMO. I still think you will still see a decent crowd for this game, it’s more of a mental thing , before TFC no one would think of staging an outdoor soccer game past October, but now an outdoor game can be played anytime as long as there is not a major snow storm a game can be played. You dress up properly for the weather , people go sking in cold weather does not stop people from sking, so why should cold weather stop people from going out and watching a soccer game.

[James17930]

It’s not a big deal anymore about playing soccer in cold weather, it’s been a few years now that a few games have been played in cold weather going all the way back to the first MLS Cup neutral game played at BMO. I still think you will still see a decent crowd for this game, it’s more of a mental thing , before TFC no one would think of staging an outdoor soccer game past October, but now an outdoor game can be played anytime as long as there is not a major snow storm a game can be played. You dress up properly for the weather , people go sking in cold weather does not stop people from sking, so why should cold weather stop people from going out and watching a soccer game.

My concern is about the players having to wear shorts in potentially -20 weather.

[rydermike]

It’s not a big deal anymore about playing soccer in cold weather, it’s been a few years now that a few games have been played in cold weather going all the way back to the first MLS Cup neutral game played at BMO. I still think you will still see a decent crowd for this game, it’s more of a mental thing , before TFC no one would think of staging an outdoor soccer game past October, but now an outdoor game can be played anytime as long as there is not a major snow storm a game can be played. You dress up properly for the weather , people go sking in cold weather does not stop people from sking, so why should cold weather stop people from going out and watching a soccer game.
Well for starters, you can wear a Goose when skiing, but not when playing soccer.

[ensco]

It's really about the magnitude of the event.

Cold weather games have always been around, but not when the potential/likelihood was for minus 10. It almost never gets that cold in England. Germany stops their season for six weeks during the period when they can get cold like that.

Cold weather night games started in Europe because of midweek Champions League. So, OK, it's possible to do it.

It's understandable to do a cold weather night game for big MLS playoff or championship games, it's dumb to do it for the first round of Concacaf.

Soccer is a summer sport.

[gmacpheetfc]

They play in Moscow in February we should be alright as long as the stadium is full

[kodiakTFC]

This tie between TFC and Colorado is going to be a joke. The famous Snow game in Colorado took place a month AFTER their scheduled home leg.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9xuaQDkmL8

[James17930]

Why didn't they use an orange ball?

[Fort York Redcoat]

It's really about the magnitude of the event.

Cold weather games have always been around, but not when the potential/likelihood was for minus 10. It almost never gets that cold in England. Germany stops their season for six weeks during the period when they can get cold like that.

Cold weather night games started in Europe because of midweek Champions League. So, OK, it's possible to do it.

It's understandable to do a cold weather night game for big MLS playoff or championship games, it's dumb to do it for the first round of Concacaf.

Soccer is a summer sport.

so we wait for tv ratings to go up before we attend our own champions league?

i didn't wait for the masses to tell me how to like this game. why wait for it to be pussplops big before we schedule it like we need to?

i don't get these convos. it strikes me much like the annual schedule release complaints thread.

[Oldtimer]

so we wait for tv ratings to go up before we attend our own champions league?

i didn't wait for the masses to tell me how to like this game. why wait for it to be pussplops big before we schedule it like we need to?

i don't get these convos. it strikes me much like the annual schedule release complaints thread.

If you don't get it, it's this, I think the players would like more than 2000 hardcore supporters plus a few hundred fans in nice warm box seats to be out there supporting them when they play these games. They are professionals and will play no matter what, but if you think there is no difference for them having between 2000-3000 and 30,000 fans you are mistaken.

[Red CB Toronto]

If you don't get it, it's this, I think the players would like more than 2000 hardcore supporters plus a few hundred fans in nice warm box seats to be out there supporting them when they play these games. They are professionals and will play no matter what, but if you think there is no difference for them having between 2000-3000 (tel:2000-3000) and 30,000 fans you are mistaken.

Having been to a Champions League game at BMO with approximately 1,500 people in the stands, I can assure you there is a huge difference between that and having a packed house. It's a totally different experience.

[MightyDM]

Having been to a Champions League game at BMO with approximately 1,500 people in the stands, I can assure you there is a huge difference between that and having a packed house. It's a totally different experience.

What game was that?

[MightyDM]

I am conce4ned for the players safety. Very easy for a hamstring or quad to go in those temperaratures

[Areathrasher]

If you don't get it, it's this, I think the players would like more than 2000 hardcore supporters plus a few hundred fans in nice warm box seats to be out there supporting them when they play these games. They are professionals and will play no matter what, but if you think there is no difference for them having between 2000-3000 and 30,000 fans you are mistaken.

You think the Colorado game will only draw 2000-3000?

[MartinUtd]

They should petition to move the game to Sunday. At least then you can have the game in the afternoon.

[MartinUtd]

You think the Colorado game will only draw 2000-3000?

Given that we're just coming off a championship season and the fact that people now turn out for outdoor hockey games, I think we'll be fine on the attendance front.

[Red CB Toronto]

What game was that?

The match vs. Dallas that was played at 10 am, the day after when the match was suppose to be played but was called off due to lightning.

[Red CB Toronto]

You think the Colorado game will only draw 2000-3000?

I would be more inclined to suggest 10-15K.

[Ponderosa]

Does anyone recall if these matches were included in the SSH packages or do we have to purchase them separately?

[Oldtimer]

I would be more inclined to suggest 10-15K.

If it's plus 5-10 degrees, maybe. If it's minus 10 I'll be shocked if we get 10k.

[OgtheDim]

This is what the membership sales page says about CCL tickets


• 1 CONCACAF Champions League (CCL) Match
• 2 additional matches, CCL or Canadian Championships — whichever occurs first


So Colorado, tickets to the quarters and semis, but not the finals.

And, if we get past Colorado, at least one round of the Voyaguers will not be included with membership.


**********

The uptake by members alone will be more then 10K.

[anto7]

With regards to the potential temperature for the home game I will share my experience from my 8 mile outdoor run yesterday morning just to give an idea of what I wore and how it felt. I believe the temp was around -22c plus windchill made it feel like -28.
I wore regular Adidas running shoes with calf length cotten Adidas socks. Feet were not an issue at all.
I wore Adidas climaheat running tights - legs were perfectly fine did not feel the cold at all.
So based on the above I would say lower body will not be a concern for the players if they wear tights.
Upper body, I wore a thermal long sleeve base layer shirt, moisture wicking long sleeve thin Adidas running shirt, Adidas winter running jacket and a Adidas lightweight windbreaker. Did not feel the cold during my run but once the run was finished and I was walking home I became a little chilly due to sweat underneath all the layers.
Head and face, I wore an Adidas climaheat toque on my head and it kept it perfectly warm(it covered my ears too). I wore a face mask the protected my neck, chin and cheeks. The only exposed area was my eyes. Face was perfectly warm.
Hands, I wore 1 pair of lightweight gloves, 1 pair of medium weight gloves and a pair of thick Adidas running socks over top. For the most part hands and fingers were warm although on my walk home I could feel a little chill.
So, upper body, head, face and hands are going to be a very real concern if the players are faced with similar temps for the game. Obviously they will not be able to wear all of the layers I did and I highly doubt wearing a toque and face mask is an option. They may be able to protect their hands adequately with expensive thermal gloves.
I honestly doubt that they would be able to safely play the game in those kind of temps.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Having been to a Champions League game at BMO with approximately 1,500 people in the stands, I can assure you there is a huge difference between that and having a packed house. It's a totally different experience.

Very true!
With this said, I am sure no matter how crap will be the weather (even if -25 C, lol...), we'll have at least 5,000 butts inside BMO at the match with Colorado.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

They should petition to move the game to Sunday. At least then you can have the game in the afternoon.

Or at least play it in the same day, but starting at 6:30 PM.
That could make a significant difference in the temperture for 3/4 of the game (even 2-3 degrees mean a lot!), and people still would have enough time to get there after work.

[Fort York Redcoat]

If you don't get it, it's this, I think the players would like more than 2000 hardcore supporters plus a few hundred fans in nice warm box seats to be out there supporting them when they play these games. They are professionals and will play no matter what, but if you think there is no difference for them having between 2000-3000 and 30,000 fans you are mistaken.

Sure. Nice for the players and atmo.

Every change to the schedule of this tourney is a hit to the consistency they desperately need to grow it, that's all. i just want them to decide on a sched and stick to it.

[MightyDM]

The match vs. Dallas that was played at 10 am, the day after when the match was suppose to be played but was called off due to lightning.

Right!

[MightyDM]

With regards to the potential temperature for the home game I will share my experience from my 8 mile outdoor run yesterday morning just to give an idea of what I wore and how it felt. I believe the temp was around -22c plus windchill made it feel like -28.
I wore regular Adidas running shoes with calf length cotten Adidas socks. Feet were not an issue at all.
I wore Adidas climaheat running tights - legs were perfectly fine did not feel the cold at all.
So based on the above I would say lower body will not be a concern for the players if they wear tights.
Upper body, I wore a thermal long sleeve base layer shirt, moisture wicking long sleeve thin Adidas running shirt, Adidas winter running jacket and a Adidas lightweight windbreaker. Did not feel the cold during my run but once the run was finished and I was walking home I became a little chilly due to sweat underneath all the layers.
Head and face, I wore an Adidas climaheat toque on my head and it kept it perfectly warm(it covered my ears too). I wore a face mask the protected my neck, chin and cheeks. The only exposed area was my eyes. Face was perfectly warm.
Hands, I wore 1 pair of lightweight gloves, 1 pair of medium weight gloves and a pair of thick Adidas running socks over top. For the most part hands and fingers were warm although on my walk home I could feel a little chill.
So, upper body, head, face and hands are going to be a very real concern if the players are faced with similar temps for the game. Obviously they will not be able to wear all of the layers I did and I highly doubt wearing a toque and face mask is an option. They may be able to protect their hands adequately with expensive thermal gloves.
I honestly doubt that they would be able to safely play the game in those kind of temps.

Plus they stand and walk during the game, while as a runner you move all the time, making the cold harder on them. Good about the tights though.

[James17930]

Plus they stand and walk during the game, while as a runner you move all the time, making the cold harder on them. Good about the tights though.

But they're not even allowed to wear tights, right? I've never seen a soccer player wearing anything other than just shorts. It seems like the rules stipulate the legs must always be exposed.

Please correct me if I'm wrong.

[Dunkers]

Tights are allowed, see our last game ;)https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/2/e5/jozy-altidore-toronto-fc-mls-cup_t8ptz0bsbn7fzbulncxhqs68.jpg?t=1043690584

[Redpunkfiddle]

Laws of the game are clear. Keepers allowed the option of 'trackpants'.

Everyone else must wear shorts/undershorts and are SOL.

Edit: Nope, I was wrong

[rydermike]

Laws of the game are clear. Keepers allowed the option of 'trackpants'.

Everyone else must wear shorts/undershorts and are SOL.

Pretty sure players can wear tights under their shorts, I mean these two legends did

http://www.soccer-training-info.com/images/ronaldinho_tights.jpghttp://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/12/12/article-2246807-16760A98000005DC-842_306x423.jpg

[MightyDM]

But they're not even allowed to wear tights, right? I've never seen a soccer player wearing anything other than just shorts. It seems like the rules stipulate the legs must always be exposed.

Please correct me if I'm wrong.

good point.

[MightyDM]

Pretty sure players can wear tights under their shorts, I mean these two did

http://www.soccer-training-info.com/images/ronaldinho_tights.jpghttp://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/12/12/article-2246807-16760A98000005DC-842_306x423.jpg

interesting. I thought that wasn’t allowed, but you can get around it, of course: really long undershorts and really long sock liners almost equal tights.

[OgtheDim]

The laws of the game are actually pretty clear that they do NOT ban undershorts/tights that go below the shorts.


undershorts/tighundershorts/tights must be the same colour as the main colour of the shorts

or the lowest part of the shorts


In point of fact, the laws outline what must be worn, and only restrict headgear, dangerous items and jewellery. Track bottoms for goalies are only mentioned because thus goalies do not have to wear shorts.

[haroldp]

The LotG 2015/2016 already allowed tights under basic equipment:

__________________________________________________ ___________
Basic equipment
The basic compulsory equipment of a player comprises the following separate items:
• a jersey or shirt with sleeves – if undergarments are worn, the colour of the sleeve must be the same main colour as the sleeve of the jersey or shirt
• shorts – if undershorts or tights are worn, they must be of the same main colour as the shorts
• stockings – if tape or similar material is applied externally it must be the same colour as that part of the stocking it is applied to
• shinguards
• footwear



The updated LotG 2017/2018 changed "basic equipment" to "compulsory equipment" and took effect on June 1st, 2017. It added the goalkeeper "tracksuit" option. Prior to this change, I believe goalkeepers had to use tights if they wanted to cover their legs. The "tights" option was moved to colours.
__________________________________________________ ___________
2 Compulsory equipment
The compulsory equipment of a player comprises the following separate items:
• a shirt with sleeves
• shorts
• socks – tape or any material applied or worn externally must be the same colour as that part of the sock it is applied to or covers
• shinguards – these must be made of a suitable material to provide reasonable protection and covered by the socks
• footwear
Goalkeepers may wear tracksuit bottoms.


The "tights" provision was moved under "colours"
__________________________________________________ ___________
4 Colours
• The two teams must wear colours that distinguish them from each other and the match officials
• Each goalkeeper must wear colours that are distinguishable from the other players and the match officials
• If the two goalkeepers’ shirts are the same colour and neither has another shirt, the referee allows the match to be played


Undershirts must be the same colour as the main colour of the shirt sleeve; undershorts/tights must be the same colour as the main colour of the shorts or the lowest part of the shorts – players of the same team must wear the same colour.



http://www.theifab.com/laws

[Redpunkfiddle]

Thanks for the much more comprehensive research. I thought the tights couldn't be long, but that's not the case.

I'm surprised Cooper didn't wear them in last year's final. Maybe he was discouraged by the team. Or maybe most players don't like anything messing with their movement.

[ryan]

The only thing that matters is the color, need to be team official.

I recall Dunfield getting into trouble with Canada cause his red long sleeve undershirt wasn't the right color red. Had to change I believe.

[Auzzy]

I was pretty sure tights were allowed. I'm surprised about the colour restrictions though. I think that #4 Gustav Svensson with Seattle was wearing white or cream-coloured tights in the MLS championship game. And in the picture above, you see black tights, which fit the uniform colour scheme, but don't match the colour of the shorts.

[James17930]

Well if tights are allowed then they all def. need to wear them if it's going to be -20 or whatever.

But maybe they don't want to if they'd need to be red ;)