Baldomero Toledo prepared for next accomplishment – U.S. Open Cup
As soon as Baldomero Toledo was informed of his assignment to the 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final, he was immediately in contact with four of his PRO colleagues.
Sean Hurd, Adam Wienckowski, Sorin Stoica and Kyle Atkins.
That’s because they are the men he will proudly walk out alongside at Toyota Stadium on Tuesday September 13, ahead of FC Dallas versus New England Revolution.
Read more: 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final crew announced
A Major League Soccer referee since 2004, Toledo has taken charge of more than 200 games and the final in Frisco, Texas, marks another significant milestone in his officiating journey.
“I was pleasantly surprised on being selected for this important game, but I’m very happy and excited,” he reflected to proreferees.com.
“The first thing I did was to congratulate my team on being selected as members of the crew.
“We will be in communication in the upcoming days to discuss tactics, key players, past games, and other topics related to the game.
“Being selected for this Open Cup Final is another objective accomplished in my career.”
Toledo’s career so far includes two MLS Cups (2008 and 2010) and he has 14 top-level games under his belt this year, contributing to his impressive total, which makes him one of the most experienced officials on the PRO roster.
He’s also had a taste of the U.S. Open Cup Final before, having been on fourth official duties in 2013 at Rio Tinto Stadium, when D.C. United beat Real Salt Lake 1-0.
But this year he’s the man in the middle, and is ready for what he expects will be a thrilling final.
“I remember that there were very exciting and intense moments in the game,” the 46-year-old said of 2013. “I enjoyed being part of that crew.
“Although every game is different, I expect this game to be as equally intense as any other U.S. Open Cup Final.
“We know that both teams are going to come out to win the game, therefore it will be very competitive and as a referee crew we need to be ready for it.”