Villafaña Starts, But USMNT U23s Lose to Canada U23s

Amidst the good vibes following Chivas USA's victory over Real Salt Lake yesterday, it's necessary to provide an international update involving one of the Goats. In the second matchday of the CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Tournament, the USMNT U23s lost to Canada's U23s 2-0 in a shock result. Doneil Henry and Lucas Cavallini each got a second half goal in the match, and the Canadians defended very well to deny the Americans any major goal chances. As a result, the Americans' chances of making the Olympics are hurt, although they still have a chance as long as they win the rest of their matches in the tournament.

On the Chivas USA front, Jorge Villafaña started and played the entire match at left back. He had a couple of dangerous crosses, although the chances couldn't be converted, and he generally played well defensively. He wasn't marking anybody, however, on the second goal, although it seemed none of the defenders were marking on that play, so it was a total breakdown.

It was Villafaña's first action in the tournament, as he was an unused sub in the first match, a 6-0 win over Cuba. Although big questions will be asked (and should be asked) about the loss for the co-favorites playing on home soil, I don't think he played badly. Unfortunately, the lack of hype surrounding him, and the fact that he plays for Chivas may cause some to want him out. Obviously, I'm a fan, but I hope he's in again against El Salvador in Monday's do-or-die match for the Americans. He, and this team, need to redeem themselves.

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