MLS News Roundup: August 8th

FC Barcelona put six goals in the net against the New York Red Bulls on Wednesday, August 6th. The Catalans were playing without superstar Leo Messi, just hours after the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled that Barcelona did not have to release him to participate in the Olympics.

Without Messi, Barcelona led 4-1 at halftime and 6-2 at full time behind two Samuel Eto'o goals, and a two assist effort from Xavi.

Amado Guevara, a Honduran midfielder playing for Toronto FC, was fined and suspended by the MLS disciplinary committee for his actions in a game last Sunday. Guevara was given a straight red card for hitting FC Dallas midfielder Pablo Ricchetti in the face during the 78th minute of Sunday's game.

Guevara has been suspended for a total of two games, and fined $500. He is not eligible to return to action until August 23rd.

Former New England Revolution icon Pat Noonan was dealt to the Columbus Crew on Wednesday. In January of 2008, Noonan signed with the Norwegian club Aalesunds FK, with New England still retaining his MLS rights. After eleven appearances in Norway, Noonan decided to return to MLS. Columbus offered their first round pick in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft as well as the option for New England to climb from 10th to third in the current MLS allocation rankings.

Real Salt Lake will open their gorgeous new stadium on October 9th in a match against the New York Red Bulls. The club had originally hoped to open the stadium some time this season, but was unsure if they would meet that deadline. The 20,000 seat stadium will make its debut on October 9th in a game nationally televised on ESPN2. RSL stadium will also host the 2009 MLS All-Star Game.

Last but definitely not least, the US Olympic soccer team began their quest for a gold medal with a 1-0 win over Japan in their first game. Midfielder Stuart Holden scored the winning goal just minutes before the half.