Soccer News: Xolos vs America in San Diego Clasico

San Diego Clasico soccer match between Club Tijuana and Club America at Qualcomm Stadium ended in a 1-1 draw in front of 20,000 soccer loving fans.

The competition was tough, the ball could not successfully find the back of the net for either team. Club America’s Miguel Layun scored in the 82nd minute and six minutes later of the score was tied…

Highlights of the match from SNN reporter Coach Darren Parker:

As the ball floated in the air it appeared as if it may be going over. Fidel Martinez was halfway to the Xolo's bench waving his shirt over his head by the time it settled in the back of the net to draw the match in the 88th minute. The chip from the spot was enough to make Andrea Pirlo or Sergio Ramos stand up and applause. It was also one of several highlights in the event filled friendly at San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium this past Saturday night.

Most of the night was an intense battle for an exhibition, with the keepers from both sides making several fine saves. Club America finally broke the deadlock on a superb half volley from Miguel Arturo Layun Prado in the 83rd. Both teams made plenty of changes throughout the evening and the city of San Diego was able to welcome home a few of the Xolo's stars. Joe Corona was solid as ever during his first half performance and Greg Garza played all 90 minutes while putting in a tremendous effort at left back.

Other stars of the match included Xolo's right sided midfielder Antonio Maduena - who put together a dazzling show of skills as well as the big Columbian striker Duvier Riascos who caused havoc to the Club America defense for most of the evening. 

Martinez's chipped spot kick equalized the match a few moments before the final whistle to leave both sets of supporters in a festive mood as the match came to an end. It put and end to an evening that brought a fun filled atmosphere to Qualcomm in the type of match that has always done well here in San Diego.

The night provided a great opportunity for fans of our community to experience the Mexican league at its finest. San Diego, "America's Finest City", deserves nothing less.

The game was sponsored by Tecate, as part as its summer-long soccer program designed for adult fans con carácter.

Photograhy Credit:  Duarte Andrade & Darren Parker

Article updated 7.6.12