Sporting Kansas City were held to a scoreless draw at Sporting Park against CD Olimpia on Wednesday night at Sporting Park. The draw clinches a spot in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions League, which will take place in March 2014.
Man of the Match
Graham Zusi was active all over the pitch and had a workrate second to none. Zusi appeared to have scored the game-winning goal in the second half but it was unfortunately disallowed by the referee. Even when he doesn't score or notch an assist, the midfielder is consistently having a positive impact on matches.
Turning Point
A great save from Olimpia goalkeeper Noel Valladares in the first half was crucial. Sporting KC forward Jacob Peterson headed in a Seth Sinovic cross but was denied by Valladares. If that save isn't made, then the match changes drastically and forced Olimpia to take more chances. Credit to the Honduran goalkeeper who was up to the challenge throughout the 90 minutes and the main reason his team was able to earn a draw.
A few stats
- Eric Kronberg's goals against average in the group stage is 0.25
- Lawrence Olum led all players with 86 passes
- Uri Rosell won 8 of 10 (80%) duels
- Matt Besler led all players with 11 clearances
