Alajuelense were in control of their own destiny. A result against Monarcas Morelia on Tuesday and they would win Group A of the CONCACAF Champions League. A win? That would have worked. A draw? That would have worked too. Any result at all would do the job. Instead, they blew a one-goal lead, handing Morelia the three points and clinching a spot for the Mexican side in the knockout stages. Now, if the LA Galaxy win on Thursday Alajuelense is out of the competition, an awful scenario for a team that two hours earlier were in complete control.
Monarcas Morelia Vs. Alajuelense, 2011 CONCACAF Champions League: Morelia Book Quarterfinal Place
Pablo Gabas put the visitors in front after 36 minutes. It was the goal that Alajuelense thought would at least earn them a draw and a spot in the knockout stages, but then Morelia came battling back in the second half. First, Joao Rojas scored off of a pass from Manuel Perez 10 minutes into the second stanza, then Miguel Sabah won it for Morelia with a header that beat Patrick Pemberton and Alajuelense were in trouble.
While Alajuelense are in trouble because they are dependent on Motagua beating the Galaxy on Thursday, Morelia is safe. They have clinched a spot in the quarterfinals and if the Galaxy win, they will likely win Group A. If the Galaxy lose or draw to Motagua though, Alajuelense goes through and as group winners. Oh, the joy of tournament football.
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