Cruz Azul Vs. Monterrey, CONCACAF Champions League: Blue Machine Have Work Cut Out For Them

Although Cruz Azul picked up a crucial road goal during the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions League semifinal, they still trail Monterrey 2-1 heading into Wednesday's second leg. Monterrey has to be considered the favorite, as they have been one of the best home teams in Mexico and will also have star striker Humberto Suazo back for the game. As FMF State of Mind, SB Nation's Mexican Primera blog, points out, this team is a lot more than one star striker, though.

With the players that they have on their roster, Monterrey are capable of grinding out a scoreless draw if they have to. They usually play very attractive football, but they can play a defense-first style when necessary. In that respect, Walter Ayovi is their Park Ji-Sung out wide, while Jesus Zavala is their (large) Darren Fletcher. It seems like Monterrey will play a 4-4-2 with Zavala and Luis Perez on the bench while Neri Cardozo and Ayovi play wide, but don't be surprised to see one of the strikers come off to create a 4-5-1 setup if Monterrey snag an early away goal.