Champions League Analysis: Olimpia vs FAS

Un blog hondureño en Inglés

By Chad Stracensky

Olimpia resumed their Champions League quest last night in Tegucigalpa with a 2-0 victory over Salvadoran side CD FAS.  Two goals from Roger Rojas were enough to make it a comfortable win for the hosts, whose efficient passing and speed of play allowed them to dominate possession and keep FAS mired in their own half for most of the match.  The visitors had one really good chance in each half but were unable to convert on either occasion.

If they are to go beyond the Group Stage, Olimpia needs Rojas to continue finishing his chances.

For Olimpia, Bonieck once again set himself apart with a fine display. He showed good decision-making and efficiency in possession all night.  The lanky midfielder didn’t seem to put a foot wrong all night – a very promising display. And it was his quick turn and pass out to Barahona racing up the wing that led to Olimpia’s first goal.    Another performance of note was that of Walter Hernández in midfield.  Playing deep just in front of the defense, he was extremely effective with his positioning and short passing.  His physical presence really opened up space for Turcios to roam and for the outside backs to get forward on the wings.  I would be remiss if I did not also mention the finishing of Rojas.  He scored on the two great looks he had – exactly what a striker should be doing.  It was a much-improved performance from the striker after his ineffectiveness in Mexico.

Perhaps one of the few positives CD FAS can take from their loss is the work-rate of Alejandro Bentos and Christian Alvarez.  Bentos spent most of his time up front alone chasing what he could, as the rest of his team was confined to sitting behind the ball to defend.  It’s always a lonely existence for a striker in this role, especially for one whose side gave the ball away far too cheaply when they did get possession.  Alvarez also covered a lot of ground, though not much of it was going forward.  His energy helped keep a draw within reach up until Rojas put the game away in the 80th minute.  But, ultimately, it’s only a matter of time before one feels the strain of chasing shadows all night.

Next up for Olimpia is a visit from Mexican side Toluca on September 23.  They must get off to a better start than they did in their first match, in which they were easily dispatched 4-0.  Things look all but done for CD FAS, whose further participation in the Group Stages is a mere formality.

Chad Stracensky currently lives in New York City.

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17-September-2010