Monterrey - Marathon

CONCACAF Champions League

I'm also going for this matche in CONCACAF, as I really expect a day without surprises. Monterrey will, of course, mix their squad a bit, as they usually do, but I doubt that should be a problem for them, as even the reserves of the Mexican clubs are at least a class better than any other CONCACAF team. So far, they are undefeated this season, both in the league, as well as in the Champions League, and that is likely to continue after today. Marathon could be a tough nut to crack, but that's more truthful when they play at home. They have a strong physical game-style, and that helps a bit, but against such a technical team like Monterrey, this game-style will have some problems, as I doubt they'll get much of the ball. And when the Mexicans are passing the ball around, all you can do is wait for the moment they turn their possession into a vertical attack. As for Marathon's away play, they showed last match they can't cope with it too well, as they got pushed aside by Saprissa (even though they were a man down since 1-1, but I doubt they would have held on to the draw with all their man on the pitch). One more thing to remember is last year's 7-0 whooping by Toluca (also with an alternative team), a score that is maybe a bit exaggerated, but shows the real difference between Mexican and Honduran football. Small-medium stakes, as complacency of Mexican clubs is not out of the question. GL!

Monterrey (-1.5 AH) @ 1.95, 4/10

Result: 2-0, WON