SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA -- Few stadiums throughout CONCACAF have the reputation of Estadio Saprissa. Known throughout the region as La Cueva del Monstruo or The Monster's Cave, the 24,000 seat stadium, which serves as the home for Deportivo Saprissa and the Costa Rican National Team, is one of the most intimidating venues in CONCACAF.
As the LA Galaxy prepare for Thursday evening's CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinal first leg against C.S. Herediano, a pair of Southern California-based reporters were given a look inside "The Monster's Cave." Fans of U.S., Honduras, and Mexico will become quite familiar with the stadium as Los Ticos are expected to host their most important "Hexagonal" World Cup Qualifying matches in "La Cueva" rather than the ultra-modern Estadio Nacional.
One interesting point that relates to the Galaxy's CCL campaign, our tour guide -- local reporter -- Leo Sandi stressed that continential competition is of huge importance in Costa Rica, particularly after Saprissa was able to win the 2005 CONCACAF Champions' Cup. Following that victory, the tournament became of greater importance for Saprissa as well as their arch rivals L.D. Alajuelense and Herediano, who are seeking to equal the achievement of their arch rivals. Could we see that kind of desire in MLS if a team is able to win the CCL?
Below are a few photos of the stadium.
Welcome to the Monster's Cave
The very first stone laid at Saprissa.
The Main Stand from the Supporters' Section
Walking up the Supporters' Section
Saprissa's first ever team
Saprissa's 2005 CONCACAF Champions Cup winning-side
Behind the North Stand
Inside the Monster's Cave
Check out the video below for a full panoramic view of the stadium and the surrounding area from the highest point in the venue. If you look closely, you can see the Estadio Nacional as well as stadiums for Alajuelense and Herediano. Also, the field is currently being cleaned after a Mana concert the night before that drew 45,000 people.
