February 25 – Vancouver Whitecaps FC head into the second leg against CS Cartaginés after a bruising 1st leg in Costa Rica that finished all square.
Without that precious away goal the Whitecaps will be under intense pressure to keep a clean sheet. One mistake will require them to score two goals.
Despite dominating the possession stat by a remarkable 75% to 25% and outshooting CS Cartaginés 15 to 7, the Canadian outfit could not break down a disciplined back line with Kevin Andrés Briceño outstanding between the posts.
Vancouver’s strength lies in balance. They’re defensively compact, they limit chances, and force opponents into low-percentage shots. Going forward, quick switches of play and late runs from midfield have been key weapons. In Sebastian Berhalter, they possess one of the best exponents of set-pieces in the region, and it’s a weapon that has proven to pay dividends.
CS Cartaginés brings Concacaf know-how and a reputation for resilience. Costa Rican sides are superb at absorbing pressure, and they’ll know that a repeat of their home performance with one special moment could see them advance.
If Vancouver score first, the tie will open up in their favour. If not, tension will start becoming unbearable.
Only a 0-0 final score would see this game go to penalties and a round of 16 date with the Seattle Sounders.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC (CAN) vs CS Cartaginés (CRC) — Second Leg Preview (0-0 agg)