Manchester United v. Club America - Match Preview
Debut?
By Chris O'Brien / David Hobbs
July 27 2003
Tim Howard is set to make his Red Devils debut in his native country, as United continue their US tour against Mexican outfit Club America in Los Angeles. David Bellion could also make his first start in the famous red shirt, after he scored as a substitute against Celtic in United's 4-0 victory.
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Manchester United
vs. Club America |
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Manchester Unuted play their second game of the US tour on Sunday night, when they take on Mexican outfit Club America. The game is taking place in Los Angeles at the LA Coliseum. The stadium has a capacity of 92,000, and is seen as one of the countries best arenas. United’s opponents Club America currently sit 8th in the Mexican premier division and have a very good club history, but despite a disappointing campaign so far, have a fantastic club history. Over the years, Club America has been on of South America's most successful sides, with their trophy cabinet proudly presenting 8 Mexican League Championships, 4 CONCACAF cups, and a Giant Cup. United go into this game on a real high following their 4-0 thrashing of Uefa Cup runners-up Glasgow Celtic in their opening pre-season affair, and will be desperate to continue the winning habit throughout the tour. Sir Alex Ferguson is expected to make several changes from the side that started in Seattle against Celtic, with bright prospects Kieran Richardson, Danny Pugh and Darren Fletcher all possibilities for a chance to impress. New signing David Bellion is expected to start his first game in the famous red shirt, following his debut as a substitute against Celtic, which saw him score United's fourth and final goal. United supporters will also have a close eye on 'keeper Tim Howard. The American international has joined up with the Red Devils squad, and looks set to make his debut in LA. The United boss is looking forward to the fixture, and believes the fans will be treated to another excellent game. "The Celtic game showed that this tournament is not about friendly games. "Club America are a good side, and we are determined to continue our good start and get another win under our belts." United had an extended training session yesterday at the state-of-the-art Nike Complex- and are raring to play their second game of the tour. They will leave Portland tomorrow for the game in LA. For those of you not fortunate enough to be in the States, the game is being shown live on MUtv, with coverage starting from 11.30pm. |
| One to Watch - Cuauhtemoc Blanco |
 Blanco
is one of Mexico's best known players, and already has 40 international caps
to his name,The left-footed forward has spent the last two seasons on loan with Spanish out-fit Valladolid, and was also part of Mexican's World Cup squad in Japan & Korea last year. The 29-year-old has a keen eye for goal, and is likely to cause the United defence some problems. |
| ManUtdWeb Prediction - Manchester United 2-1 Club America |
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Expect a spirited
performance from Club America, who are desperate to prove they are not just
the whipping boys of this tour. Still, following the excellent performance against Celtic, I can see United coming away with a slim victory. U-N-I-T-E-D |
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