Nery Castillo Returns
Sven-Goran Erikkson has recalled Manchester City forward Nery Castillo to the Mexican national team for a friendly against Ecuador in Phoenix, Arizona next week. You might remember Castillo for his darting run and pinpoint cross that led to Mexico's lone goal in their 2-1 loss against the United States in last year's Gold Cup Final as well as for his tantalising performance in the 2007 Copa America, which was the last time the former Olympiacos player dawned the Mexican jersey.
"I am happy to be again in the national squad and I am also anxious to see my team mates again and work for the challenge," said an elated Castillo.
Nasri Double Topples Manchester United
A pair of Samir Nasri goals aided Arsenal in gaining a crucial victory over Manchester United. In the 22nd minute, a Dimitar Berbatov headed clearance fell to Nasri who attempted a left-footed volley toward goal that deflected off of defender Gary Neville and passed goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.
The Frenchman struck again as he scored his fifth goal of the season in the 48th minute. A Cesc Fabregas feed found Nasri wide open and the former Marseille midfielder made no mistake as he hit another past a helpless Van der Sar.
Manchester cut the deficit in half as substitute Rafael volleyed a ball into the net one minute from the final whistle. However, even with a prolonged amount of stoppage time, it was not enough for a miracle comeback and Arsenal came out victorious much to the delight of Arsene Wenger.
MLS Playoffs Continue
Two more MLS teams will secure their berths in the next round of the playoffs today as there are a pair of intriguing matchups listed on today's schedule. The Columbus Crew look to pull out a home victory tonight against a stubborn Kansas City Wizards side that surprisingly kept up with the top-seeded Crew last week. After a 1-1 draw, Sigi Schmid's men must win tonight or else they can expect to feel the wrath of their fans in what would be the start of a long offseason. Kickoff is at 7:30 PM ET.
Chivas USA will also be defending their home-turf tonight at 10:30 PM ET. as they look to bounce back from a 1-0 loss in last week's match against Real Salt Lake. A tie in the Home Depot Center tonight would see Real Salt Lake through on aggregate so expect RSL to come out a bit more passive than usual. Could this be Sacha Kljestan's last game in MLS? It's a possibility but expect him and Chivas USA to put it all on the line tonight.
Who do you think will prevail in tonight's MLS matches? Is Manchester United falling from grace? Happy to see Castillo back with Mexico? Feel free to express your thoughts below.
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