Daily Links: Mbazio ready for tough task against Cincinnati

Philadelphia Union News

Olivier Mbaizo’s ready for a tough assignment in Union’s playoff game at Cincinnati
After recovering from an injury to the back of his right knee suffered last month, Mbaizo is set to line up at right back against Cincinnati’s star left-sided attacking threat Álvaro Barreal.

MLS News

FC Cincinnati’s Pat Noonan voted MLS Coach of the Year
In the year-end voting completed by players, MLS club officials, and select media members, Noonan accumulated 45% of the vote. St. Louis City SC’s Bradley Carnell finished second with 27.78% while Columbus Crew’s Wilfried Nancy finished a distant third place with 11.73%.

Miami denies agreement for Messi, Ronaldo friendly in Saudi
Event organizers in Saudi Arabia had announced “The Last Dance” event via social media at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh with no exact dates yet set.

Concacaf News

Panama top Costa Rica to punch CNL Finals ticket
With the result, Panama have won the two-legged series on aggregate 6-1. In addition to advancing to the CNL Finals, Panama have qualified for the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024.

Dramatic rally sees Mexico secure CNL Finals berth
Edson Alvarez scored in the final seconds of second half stoppage time to even the aggregate scoreline at 2-2, resulting in penalty kicks. By virtue of their penalty shootout win, not only have Mexico reached the CNL Finals, but they have also qualified for the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024.