Champions finish their chances. It’s a simple but hard truth. Real goal scoring opportunities are rare in international soccer. If you get one you better put it away. It’s not the only factor that separates the quality teams from the pack, but it’s one factor. A big factor.

And I’m not saying the Revolution and the Galaxy are finished after their respective 0-0 draws against Alajuelense and Saprissa. But the second legs are now mere formalities for the home teams. And neither New England nor Los Angeles are the home teams.