Desert Diamond Cup 2014 Starts Wednesday

By Francisco Romero

Six Major League Soccer teams will play in the Desert Diamond Cup starting Wednesday in Tucson.  The Chicago Fire, Chivas USA, Colorado Rapids, New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake will join host FC Tucson of the USL’s Premier Development League.  In addition the Chivas of Guadalajara will play in the first play team to finish the tournament. 

It is the third edition of the pre season tournament disputed in the Old Pueblo. 

During a press conference Tuesday the teams reiterated their desire to continue training in Tucson during the coming years. 

Pima County Officials last year built a 2,000-seat soccer stadium and practice fields to accommodate de MLS teams.  The stadium also serves as the home of FC Tucson during their season. 

Among the MLS stars that will participate in the Desert Diamond Cup are former U.S. National Team Members Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids Coach) and Carlos Bocanegra (Chivas USA).

2014 Desert Diamond Cup
(All times local MT)

Wednesday, February 19, 2014 (North Stadium at Kino Sports Complex)


Game #1, 1:00PM: Chivas USA v. FC Tucson


Game #2, 3:30PM: Colorado Rapids v. Chicago Fire


Game #3, 6:00PM: Real Salt Lake v. NE Revolution

Saturday, February 22, 2014 (North Stadium at Kino North Complex)


Game #4, 1:00PM: FC Tucson v. Chicago Fire


Game #5, 3:30PM: Colorado Rapids v. Real Salt Lake


Game #6, 6:00PM: NE Revolution v. Chivas USA

Wednesday, February 26, 2014 (North Stadium at Kino North Complex)


Game #7, 1:00PM: Chivas USA v. Colorado Rapids


Game #8, 3:30PM: NE Revolution v. Chicago Fire


Game #9, 6:00PM: Real Salt Lake v. FC Tucson

Saturday, March 1, 2014 (North Stadium at Kino Sports Complex)


Game #10, TBD: 5th Place v. 6th Place


Game #11, TBD: 3rd Place v. 4th place


Game #12, TBD: 1st Place v. Chivas de Guadalajara