Blanco Retires From El Tri

Mexican legend Cuauhtemoc Blanco announced his surprise retirement from international play following El Tri's 2-1 victory over Canada in World Cup qualifying on Wednesday night. The 35-year-old midfielder came into the game in the 89th minute to the delight of his fans and, not surprisingly, picked up a yellow card shortly thereafter. Following the game, teammates carried Blanco off the field and unfurled a banner that said 'Gracias Cuauhtemoc' as he said goodbye to the crowd gathered in Victor Manuel Reyna Stadium.
Blanco has earned over 100 caps for his country, with his first appearance coming as a 22-year-old back in 1995. He would later feature in their 1998 and 2002 World Cups squads, and also helped Mexico capture the 1999 Confederations Cup, but was controversially left off the 2006 World Cup roster because of a feud earlier in his career with then-coach Ricardo Lavolpe.

Sparingly-used by Sven-Goran Eriksson since his taking over, Blanco has seen less and less playing time as the new head coach has favored younger players like Carlos Vela and Giovani Dos Santos.

"I hope I did not disrespect him," said Eriksson after the game. "I did what was best for the team, which was winning three points. With a different score, maybe he would have played more. We showed respect because he played in all three matches."

Speaking to reporters following what might be his last game, Blanco explained his choice to retire: "It was my own decision. I've always said that you have to retire on time, and I'm leaving with the love from the fans. I made this decision and I'm not changing it for anything in the world." He also gave some insight into his club football plans: "There is still more from me. I want to play a few more years in the U.S. and as you know, I want to come back to play six months with America."

Blanco currently plays for the Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer, and was recently named MVP of the MLS All-Star Game held in July after recording a goal and an assist against West Ham. He has recorded four goals and seven assists for Chicago so far this season - matching his exact total from last season - and has Chicago poised for a run at MLS Cup once again, playing alongside former US Men's National Team star Brian McBride.