Monterrey Vs. Cruz Azul, CONCACAF Champions League: Preview, Leg 1

On Wednesday night, Monterrey and Cruz Azul face off in the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions League semifinal. Both teams have been solid, if unspectacular so far in the league, but regardless of form, they're undoubtedly two of the most talented teams in North America. Regardless of who wins the tie, they should be slight favorites in the final against either Real Salt Lake or Deportivo Saprissa. 

FMF State of Mind's Eben Lehman wrote a preview of the match for SBNation.com. Here's an excerpt:

In league play so far this season both teams have been solid, if unspectacular. Monterrey have had a bit of a struggle (at least by their usual high standards), suffering four losses already this year - a number which matches their loss total from the previous two regular seasons combined. During the past month the Rayados have also been forced to weather the loss of star striker Humberto Suazo, who has been out of commission recovering from a shoulder injury. Suazo has been back training with the team this week, and may make a return to the field on Wednesday night, albeit most likely coming off the bench.  

For the entire preview, along with a preview of Real Salt Lake vs. Saprissa, check out the CCL story stream on SBNation.com.