Published 10/21/2011 9:27:51 AM by William Montero from soccermogul

Three MLS sides have booked places in the CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinals surviving a taxing group phase.  The Seattle Sounders, and the LA Galaxy have advanced.

The Seattle Sounders were the first team to book their place as they clinched earlier this month out of Group D.  They had a chance to take first in the group this week as they hosted Monterrey needing only a draw.  Instead a soft defensive effort allowed the Mexican side to escape with a win leaving Seattle in second and facing a more difficult quarterfinal draw.

The surprise qualifier was Toronto FC.  Left for dead after starting Champions League play with shutout losses to FC Dallas and Pumas, TFC climbed their way back.  They had to win in Dallas this week to advance against a team they had already lost to three time this year.  Toronto put on a heroic effort as they blasted FC Dallas 3-0 at Pizza Hut Park claiming the second spot in Group C.

The LA Galaxy became the third MLS team to advance thanks to a difficutl 1-0 victory last night in Honduras over Motagua.  A first half goal from Juninho was made to stand up despite tremendous pressure from the home side.  The result left the Galaxy tied atop Group A along with Morelia and Alajuelense.  Los Angeles took the top spot by virtue of a better goal differential.

Now the three MLS sides will await the draw to find out their quarterfinal opponents.

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