The New York Red Bulls sought a positive result, but had to settle for a 1-0 loss to Chivas de Guadalajara in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions League semifinal on Wednesday at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico.
Chivas took the lead halfway through the first half, when Rodolfo Pizarro forced a turnover near the center circle, then sent a pass up to Isaac Brizuela, who finished on the quick counter.
While the Red Bulls had a few decent chances after that, they seldom pushed goalkeeper Rodolfo Cota. Bradley Wright-Phillips' breakaway chance in the 79th minute was the closest chance for the visitors, but Cota came out and snuffed out the shot.
Their quest became more difficult in the 73rd minute, when defender AurelienCollin was sent off after picking up his second yellow card of the night. He'll be suspended for the second leg, along with midfielder Alex Muyl, who will be out due to yellow card accumulation.
Goals
26' – CHV – Isaac Brizuela
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CCL - Wednesday, April 10 vs. Chivas de Guadalajara (8 pm ET | Full TV & Streaming Info)
