Santos crowned champions of Mexico
The first leg finished 1-1 last Thursday, meaning Santos won the tie 3-2 on aggregate.
Santos’ fourth title had proved elusive, with the Torreon side losing three of the last four finals in Mexico. But they finally persevered thanks to goals in each half from Daniel Ludueña and Torreon local Oribe Peralta.
Santos’ victory also means that local club Chivas de Guadalajara will participate in the 2012-13 CONCACAF Champions League. Although Chivas endured a poor season, they enter the competition for the first time as the result of finishing top in the league phase of the Apertura 2011.
For a more in-depth report, see my article for Soccer365.com
Chivas opt for grass field
Proving the grass is always greener on the other side, local soccer club Chivas de Guadalajara has ditched the artificial playing surface in the Omnilife Stadium for a natural grass pitch. Chivas’ Dutch advisor Johan Cruyff was behind the decision, according to a club statement.
The Omnilife’s synthetic playing field has met criticism from players and coaches, but made it easier to stage lucrative concerts by the likes of Elton John and Paul McCartney in the stadium. The club assured that it will continue to host such events.
