Vancouver Whitecaps FC Impressive Early in MLS Season
Vancouver, B.C. – The Vancouver Whitecaps FC are riding high in the Major League Soccer (MLS) Western Conference standings, currently sitting in second place with a commendable 5-1-2 record. Their recent 2-0 victory over arch-rivals Seattle Sounders FC has solidified their position as strong contenders in the league.
The Whitecaps' journey in April has been a rollercoaster of emotions, with notable highs and lows. Prior to an unfortunate 1-3 defeat at the hands of the LA Galaxy on April 13, the team bounced back with an emphatic 4-0 thrashing of Toronto FC on April 6, showcasing their resilience and attacking prowess.
However, it was their commanding performance against the Seattle Sounders on April 20 that truly underscored their potential. The 2-0 victory not only demonstrated their defensive solidity but also highlighted their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities when it matters most.
Near the end of the 2023 season (November 30), Whitecaps Head Coach Vanni Sartini said, "Following our last match, I have taken the time to reflect, listen, and will always continue to learn." Indeed, it appears he and his squad have done exactly that, and while the season may be less than a quarter of the way through, they already look like championship contenders.
The upcoming clash against the New York Red Bulls on April 27 presents another opportunity for the Whitecaps to showcase their credentials. The Red Bulls, currently occupying second place in the Eastern Conference, boast a similar points tally to the Whitecaps but with a less impressive 4-4-1 record.
With both teams evenly matched on paper, the encounter promises to be a thrilling affair as the Whitecaps seek to take the lead not only in the Western Conference standings, but in the MLS standings overall.
As the season progresses, the Whitecaps' ambitions extend beyond just securing a playoff berth. With their recent form and performances, they have firmly set their sights on the ultimate prize - the MLS Cup.
With a talented squad and a determined spirit, Vancouver Whitecaps FC are primed to make a serious run for glory. As they continue to defy expectations and garner attention with their impressive displays, fans can dare to dream of the cup resting in BC Place.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including MLS, since 2014. All images taken by Luanna Andrade for American Presswire and ©2024 Luanna Andrade for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. Luanna Andrade can be found on X as @luannacta_ and on Instagram as @luannaandradefoto.
Republic FC Clinches Dramatic 1-0 Victory Over El Paso, Remains First in the West
Sacramento, CA - In an otherwise nerve-wracking encounter at Heart Health Park, Sacramento Republic FC emerged victorious with a late, dramatic 1-0 win over the El Paso Locomotive on September 16, 2023. The game had fans on the edge of their seats as it remained locked at nil until Sacramento's Luis Felipe delivered a stunning header into the back of the net, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This thrilling victory not only showcased the tenacity of the Republic FC but also solidified their position at the top of the USL Championship western division.
The match began with both teams displaying their prowess, engaging in a back-and-forth battle that kept supporters on their toes. The first half of the game was marked by excellent defensive efforts and some impressive saves from both goalkeepers. Sacramento's attack relentlessly pressured El Paso's defense, creating numerous scoring opportunities.
Despite their best efforts, Sacramento found themselves continually thwarted by the brilliance of El Paso's Mexican goalkeeper, Benny Diaz. Showcasing his remarkable reflexes and positioning, Diaz kept a clean sheet during regulation time, denying Sacramento's attackers on a half dozen occasions.
As the clock ticked away and the match seemed destined to end in a goalless draw, the fans at Heart Health Park held their collective breath. Sacramento had dominated possession and generated a half-dozen incredible shots on goal throughout the match, but Diaz remained an impenetrable wall. The tension reached its peak in the 90th minute, as the referee signaled six minutes of stoppage time.
In those dying moments of the game, at 90+4’, Sacramento's Luis Felipe emerged as the hero. A well-placed cross found the midfielder perfectly positioned in the box, and with exquisite precision, he rose above the defense and connected with the ball using his head. The power behind the header left Diaz with no chance as the ball sailed into the back of the net, sparking wild celebrations among the players and fans alike.
The 1-0 victory was a testament to Republic FC's resilience and determination. They had dominated the match, constantly pressuring El Paso's defense, and were finally rewarded for their efforts. Luis Felipe's late-game heroics secured all three points for the boys in old glory red and sent Heart Health Park into euphoria.
This crucial win not only added to the Republic FC's points tally but also allowed them to create critically important separation at the top of the table. With this victory, they now sit alone in first place, setting themselves up as strong contenders for a deep playoff run.
As Republic FC continues their quest for USL Championship glory, their fans can look back at this thrilling 1-0 victory over El Paso as a defining moment in their season. The relentless pursuit of victory exemplified by the team on that fateful night in September 2023 serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to success. Sacramento fans can undoubtedly expect more heart-stopping moments and memorable victories as the team marches forward in pursuit of greatness.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including MLS and the San Jose Earthquakes, since 2014. All images taken for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi.
Quakes Secure Crucial Win, Keep Playoff Hopes Alive
San Jose, CA - In a thrilling showdown on September 16, 2023, the San Jose Earthquakes clashed with Real Salt Lake in a high-stakes Major League Soccer MLS match at PayPal Park. With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the Quakes knew that they needed a victory and the coveted three points that accompany it to maintain their position in the competitive Western Conference. What unfolded on the pitch was a rollercoaster of emotions for fans as the Quakes roared to an early lead, only to see Real Salt Lake mount a determined comeback. In the end, it was the Quakes who emerged victorious, earning a crucial 2-1 win that propelled them to seventh place in the West, with 40 points.
The San Jose faithful at PayPal Park were treated to an electric start as forward Jeremy Ebobisse wasted no time getting the Quakes on the scoreboard. In just the second minute of the match, Ebobisse showcased his scoring prowess with a well-placed goal, sending the crowd into a frenzy. It was the ideal start for San Jose, setting the tone for an exciting evening of soccer.
Building on this early momentum, the Quakes continued to press forward and were rewarded once again, this time in the 15th minute. Brazilian defender Rodrigues showcased his offensive capabilities by finding the back of the net, extending the Quakes' lead to 2-0. At this point, it seemed like San Jose was on a mission to dominate Real Salt Lake.
However, as any soccer fan knows, the beautiful game is filled with twists and turns. Real Salt Lake, determined not to be outdone, began to settle into the match and gradually shifted the momentum in their favor. The Quakes, despite their early dominance, struggled to find the back of the net for the remainder of the night.
Electric Colombian forward Cristian Arango of Real Salt Lake capitalized on this shift in momentum, narrowing the gap with a crucial goal in the 44th minute. As the teams headed into halftime, the score stood at 2-1 in favor of the Quakes, but the match was far from decided.
The second half saw both teams battling fiercely for control of the game, with numerous chances created on both ends of the field. San Jose's defense stepped up to the challenge, led by a solid performance from their phenomenal Brazilian goalkeeper, Daniel. Real Salt Lake pressed relentlessly, seeking an equalizer, but the Quakes' defense held firm, denying them any further goals.
When the final whistle blew, it was the San Jose Earthquakes who emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Real Salt Lake. The three crucial points earned in this match propelled the Quakes right to the line, seventh place in the Western Conference, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
As the Quakes savor this vital win, they must now prepare for another challenging road match. On Wednesday, September 20, they will square off against the Portland Timbers at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon. This encounter promises to be a stern test for both teams, as the Timbers' home advantage, including their unique artificial turf surface, often plays to their favor.
With the playoffs still within reach, both the Quakes and the Timbers will be hungry for a victory. Fans can expect an intense battle as these two teams clash in their pursuit of postseason glory. For the San Jose Earthquakes, the journey continues, and their determination to secure a playoff berth remains unwavering because, as they say in San Jose, the Earthquakes never say die.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including MLS and the San Jose Earthquakes, since 2014. All images taken by Robert Longan for American Presswire and ©2023 Robert Longan for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. Robert Longan can be found on X as @RobbieLPhoto and on Instagram as @robbielonganphoto_and_graphics.
The Remarkable Turnaround of Inter Miami CF
Ft. Lauderdale, FL - In the world of Major League Soccer, few stories have been as captivating and inspiring as the dramatic turnaround of Inter Miami CF. From a team languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, they have risen to become a force to be reckoned with. This is due in large part to the strategic vision of club co-owner, David Beckham; and of course, the unwavering support of fellow owner Jorge Mas and his brother, José. Beckham and the Mas brothers' tenure at the club has seen Inter Miami CF transform into a powerhouse, boasting a star-studded roster and increasingly impressive performances.
David Beckham's involvement with Inter Miami CF has been a game-changer for the club. His star power, experience, and deep connections within the football world have allowed him to attract top talent. Perhaps the most seismic move of all is the signing of none other than Lionel Messi, the Argentine legend who is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Messi's arrival at DRV PNK Stadium sent shockwaves through the footballing world and instantly elevated Inter Miami CF's profile.
But Beckham's ambitions didn't stop there. He also brought in other world-class players, such as Jordi Alba, Josef Martinez, Carlos Dos Santos, Leonardo Campana, Facundo Farias, and the ever-reliable Sergio Busquets. These acquisitions have turned Inter Miami CF into a formidable squad with a perfect blend of youth and experience.
Under the guidance of head coach Tata Martino, Inter Miami CF is flourishing. Martino, known for his tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his players, has played a pivotal role in the club's resurgence. He has instilled a winning mentality and cohesive style of play that has made Inter Miami CF a formidable team.
Inter Miami CF's journey from the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings has been nothing short of extraordinary. The team's commitment to improvement, coupled with the leadership of Beckham and Martino, has led to an incredible transformation. The fans, who have stuck by their team through thick and thin, have been rewarded with a memorable turnaround season.
One of the crowning achievements of this remarkable season is Inter Miami CF's victory in the League's Cup. The triumph is a testament to the team's dedication and resilience. They defeated top-notch opponents on their way to the title, showcasing their newfound strength and ambition.
As if the League's Cup win wasn't enough, Inter Miami CF is now gearing up for the US Open Cup final on September 27. This high-stakes match will be a true test of the team's mettle, and fans are eagerly anticipating the showdown with the Houston Dynamo.
While the 2023 MLS Cup playoffs remain just out of reach for Inter Miami CF, their remarkable journey is far from over. In fact, with nine league matches remaining, it is possible they can rise above the line and compete for the MLS Cup. Regardless of how the season may end, by winning the Leagues Cup, the team will compete in the prestigious CONCACAF Champions League, where they will have the opportunity to prove themselves on the international stage. Moreover, if they can win the CCL, they can qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup, a dream that seemed impossible just a short while ago.
Despite playing just north of Miami, in Ft. Lauderdale, the city of Miami has embraced Inter Miami CF with open arms. The vibrant culture, diverse fan base, and passionate supporters have made DRV PNK Stadium a fortress for the team. The city's love for football is palpable, and it has become a hub for soccer enthusiasts, both locally and globally.
Inter Miami CF's journey serves as an inspiration to soccer fans everywhere. Miami, DRV PNK Stadium, and Ft. Lauderdale have all played pivotal roles in this incredible revival, and the future looks incredibly bright for the club and the community. The club hosts Sporting Kansas City on September 9 at 7:30 PM EST.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including MLS, since 2014. He has been covering Inter Miami CF since 2021. All images taken by Chris Arjoon for American Presswire and ©2023 Chris Arjoon for American Presswire, used with permission and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Ahsan Awan can be found on Twitter as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. Chris Arjoon can be found on Twitter as @PicsBrit and on Instagram as @brit__pics.
Earthquakes Never Say Die, Keep Fighting for MLS Playoff Spot
San Jose, CA - The San Jose Earthquakes have been shaking things up during the 2023 season. With a blend of promising young talent and experienced players, they remain on a mission to secure a playoff spot in the highly competitive Western Conference. One of the driving forces behind the Earthquakes' success has been the dynamic duo of Cristian Espinoza and Cade Cowell. Espinoza, an Argentine winger known for his relentlessly fast play and precise crosses, has been a vital playmaker for the team. His ability to create scoring opportunities and deliver pinpoint assists has made him a fan favorite and a legitimate all-star.
On the other side of the pitch, young American forward Cade Cowell has been the breakout talent of the season. His lightning-quick dribbling and composure in front of the goal have made him a rising star in MLS, and he has successfully captured the attention of several European clubs. Cowell's incredible work ethic and fearless approach have contributed significantly to the Earthquakes' offensive firepower.
On the sidelines, Head Coach Luchi Gonzalez has been instrumental in molding the team's identity and fostering a winning mentality. Gonzalez, known for his tactical acumen and commitment to developing young talent, has brought a fresh perspective to the club. His ability to blend experienced players with emerging stars like Cowell has been a key factor in the team's improved performance.
Not to be neglected for their contributions, the Earthquakes' loyal fan bases, the "Ultras" and the “Seismic Union,” have transformed PayPal Park into a hostile fortress. With their passionate chants and unwavering support, the atmosphere in the stadium is electric on both ends. The players feed off this energy, and that makes every home match a daunting task for the visitors. The crowd's fervor has undoubtedly played a role in the Earthquakes' resurgence this season.
The Earthquakes currently find themselves in a competitive battle to get above the line in the Western Conference. With 36 points, tied with a Minnesota United club they just tied last weekend, yet sitting one place below at number eight, the Quakes remain on the outside looking in as the final stretch of the season plays out. They play on the road at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. against a DC United club that finds themselves in a similar situation, being currently in ninth place in the Eastern Conference. For both clubs, the upcoming match on September 9 is a must-win. With only seven matches remaining, most if not all of which are against clubs standing higher in the table, every point counts.
To secure a spot in the MLS playoffs, the Earthquakes will need to improve their current form and increase their consistency. The road to the playoffs is challenging, and the Quakes must focus on solidifying their defense, maintaining their attacking prowess, and continuing to develop depth and talent. The leadership of Coach Gonzalez will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in navigating this path.
As the season winds down, the Earthquakes host Real Salt Lake, currently fourth in the west, then travel to Portland to challenge a Timbers squad below them in the table, but whose home, Providence Park, is among the most difficult to come away with a win. The Quakes then host Nashville, who not only sits above the line in the east, but who recently played well in the Leagues Cup final and then traveled to tie the same Messi-powered Inter-Miami club who beat them at home in the cup final. After that, the Quakes travel to Minnesota for a rematch with the club they just tied at home in San Jose. They round out the season at Dallas, and then complete by hosting Austin. Both of those clubs are currently sitting right behind the Quakes in the table, and both are fighting for a chance at the playoffs.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including MLS and the San Jose Earthquakes, since 2014. All images taken by Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2023 Ahsan Awan for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. He can be found on Twitter as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi.
Republic Returns to Hughes, Capacity Crowd Proves Club Remains Built For MLS
Sacramento, CA - In celebration of a decade of soccer excellence, Sacramento Republic FC returned to where it all began at Hughes Stadium on August 26, 2023 in a fiercely competitive USL Championship western conference match versus Orange County SC. The 10-year anniversary match marked a significant milestone in the history of the club and provided the 20,231 fans on site with an unforgettable evening of soccer action that once again proved that Sacramento is indeed capable of delivering crowds that keep up with nearly anything domestic rival league Major League Soccer has to offer.
The boys in old glory red have been a cornerstone of professional soccer in Northern California for a decade. During that span, the club has made significant strides both on and off the pitch, including the inaugural season championship for which they have a star on the kit. Hughes Stadium, their original home, holds a special place in the hearts of supporters, and the 10-year anniversary match was an emotional reunion between the team and its dedicated fanbase.
The festivities began hours before the kickoff as fans arrived wearing scarves and jerseys. Tailgates filled the air with a variety of sounds and smells, and chants of "Glory, Glory, Sacramento!" echoed through the parking lots and across the bridge as the Tower Bridge Battalion supporters group approached. The excitement was palpable, and it was clear that this night would be one to remember.
As the players took to the field, the energy in Hughes Stadium reached a feverish pitch. SRFC came out determined and fought hard. OCSC, however, proved to be formidable opponents, creating an intense match that did not go the way the home team had hoped. Orange County won the contest 2-0. Sacramento’s legendary midfielder, iconic captain and final founding roster member, Rodrigo Lopez, said, “the result was not ideal... we will bounce back.” Returning after a 4-month injury recovery period, having Lopez return to the pitch was an incredible victory; indeed, he has bounced back.
Republic FC head coach Mark Briggs expressed his gratitude to the fans, saying, "This victory is not just for us, but for the amazing supporters who have been with us since day one. The energy in Hughes Stadium was incredible, and it's a testament to the incredible bond between this team and our city."
The 10-year anniversary match at Hughes Stadium was more than just a soccer game; it was a celebration of the passion, dedication, and success of the Sacramento Republic FC over the past decade. As the club continues to grow and evolve, this milestone reminds everyone that their roots run deep, and their future remains as promising as ever. Sacramento can be proud of the Republic FC and the incredible journey they've embarked upon since that inaugural season in 2014.
Following the match at Hughes, Sacramento suffered a loss on the road in Phoenix, but then managed to capture a road win at rival Oakland this past Saturday. They currently remain in first place in the western conference by two points over San Antonio. The club returns to the pitch September 16 at Heart Health Park, where they will host El Paso. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 PM PST, and the match will be televised on ESPN+.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including USL and Sacramento Republic FC, since their debut in 2014. All images taken by Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2023 Ahsan Awan for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. He can be found on Twitter as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi.
Keep calm and power on, Sacramento balances cup and league play
SACRAMENTO – Republic FC currently sits alone in fourth place in the west. They could move up to third with the combination of a win on Saturday versus Oakland Roots SC and a loss or tie by the Colorado Springs Switchbacks, whom they defeated 3-0 at home just over a week ago.
After beating MLS side Sporting KC in the semifinals of the US Open Cup, Sacramento channeled their energy forward, traveled to Charleston, SC and logged an impressive 4-2 victory on the road. Then they beat New Mexico on the road 2-1. Then they tied Rio Grande Valley 1-1 at home, and fatigue began to set in.
What happened next was a surprising 1-0 road loss to Monterey Bay. With starters resting, however, it’s difficult to point to this as being a moment of breakdown. No team wants to lose, but perhaps the boys in old glory red had one worth sacrificing to pace themselves.
Pace themselves for what, you may wonder. The obvious! Sacramento will travel to play MLS side Orlando City SC on the road, in Orlando, in the US Open Cup final scheduled for September 7, and that match is SOLD OUT. Perhaps feeling the pressure and exhibiting both respect and concern for their opponent, Orlando successfully petitioned MLS to postpone their originally scheduled match against in-state rival Inter-Miami CF just a few days before.
In contrast, Sacramento has taken a different approach. After the strong showing against Colorado Springs just over a week ago, the club fell 2-1 to Las Vegas on the road. Again, resting parts of the starter rotation likely in preparation for Orlando, but also perhaps realizing that once again, there was room to absorb a road loss without jeopardizing the USL playoffs.
So here we are, fierce rival Oakland coming to Heart Health Park on Saturday, August 27. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 PM Pacific. A win, coupled with a Switchbacks loss, would elevate Republic FC into third place in the west. Moving into third would be good. Getting above that may be a bit more complicated. Leave that conversation for another time. The Roots are up next, and then something interesting happens.
Before Sacramento travels to Orlando for their September 7 contest, the club faces Louisville City FC, the leader of USL’s east division, on the road. That match will take place on Saturday, September 3 at 4:30 PM Pacific. A win there would be fantastic, but its certainly not expected. What is likely is for Sacramento to field reserves and keep the starters out. Unlike Orlando, Sacramento is choosing to play on and play through. They may surprise everyone, but odds favor a road loss.
That said, a win this Saturday versus Oakland could be strategically critical to Republic FC positioning to secure home field for a first-round playoff match later this Fall. After Orlando, the club has only seven matches remaining in USL play. Five of those are at home. Two are on the road, and two are versus the clubs sitting above them, San Antonio, and San Diego. To say fans must hang on to their seats until the very end this season is an understatement.
Sacramento's next match is August 27 versus USL Championship side Oakland Roots SC. The match will be played at Sacramento’s Heart health Park at 8:00 PM PST. The club plays MLS side Orlando City SC at Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Florida in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup final on Wednesday, September 7 at 5:00 PM PST. Broadcast details are pending.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including USL and Sacramento Republic FC, since their debut in 2014. All images taken by Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2022 Ahsan Awan for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. He can be found on Twitter as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi.
Indomitable Club
SACRAMENTO – With the California State Fair lighting up the sky in the background, neither triple digit heat, wildfire smoke in the air, nor the relentless attack of the presumably more talented roster of the MLS-side Sporting Kansas City team they hosted as their opponent, was capable of stopping the men in old glory red from achieving victory in U.S. Soccer's Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup semifinal match. Through full time plus stoppage, two extra time periods and a thrilling penalty kick shootout, Republic FC fought hard and played well. Sacramento's incredible captain, Rodrigo Lopez, sealed the victory with a successful penalty kick to win the shootout 5-4 over Sporting Kansas City.
With a sell out announced last week, Republic FC stepped onto the pitch surrounded by a full house. There wasn't an empty seat in Heart Health Park. Despite multiple advances, shots on goal, and miraculous saves, the first half ended 0-0. The second half of regulation play was no different. Fans were riveted to their seats as extra time began. First, 15 minutes one way. Then, 15 minutes the other way. It was the same story. There were shots, there were saves, and the score remained tied 0-0. Then came the shootout.
throughout it all, club majority owner Kevin Nagle stood tall and watched. He never had any doubt. He never showede any concern. He was confident the team could win, and they did. The back-and-forth pentalty kicks took place right in front of him. At one point, Sacramento appaered to make a stop that would give them the lead, but it was called back. The second attempt by Sporting KC kept things even.
Then came KC's legedary Graham Zusi. He failed to convert. It all came down to Sacramento's great captain, Rodrigo Lopez. A wall of crowd noise, surrounded him as he prepared to shoot. The moment he kicked the ball, there was no doubt. It was going in. It went in. The crowd erupted in cheers. The team went wild. The players from Sporting KC looked stunned. Sacramento did it. They pulled off the unimaginable. The indomitable club won the 2022 U.S. Open Cup semifinal.
Sacramento now advances to play MLS side Orlando City SC on the road, in Orlando, in the Open Cup final scheduled for September 7. Further details about the next match will be coming soon. For now, let the celebration begin. For Sacramento, For Nagle, Lopez, all the players, staff and fans, the dream remains very much alive.
Sacramento's next match is July 30 at USL Championship side Charleston Battery. The match will be played at the Battery's Patriots Point Stadium at 4:30 PM PST. The club then plays a slate of six USL Championship league matches in August before heading Louisville for a USL side match on September 3. Then they are off to Orlando to face MLS side Orlando City in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup final on Wednesday, September 7 at 5:00 PM PST. Within league play, Republic FC won't return home to host a USL opponent until Saturday, August 6, when they face Rio Grande Valley FC at Heart Health Park at 8:00 PM. Broadcast details are pending.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including USL and Sacramento Republic FC, since their debut in 2014. All images taken by Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2022 Ahsan Awan for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. He can be found on Twitter as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi.
The only way forward is to win
SACRAMENTO – At the conclusion of the USL Championship regular season on October 15, the top seven teams in the western conference will advance into the single-elimination playoffs. Sacramento Republic FC currently sits in seventh place. Only one point separates the boys in old glory red from being above the line in sixth place or below the line in either eighth or ninth place. The pressure is on.
Sacramento has lost two of its last three matches and hasn't won since June 25. The next three matches present significant challenges: a road match vs Phoenix Rising on July 23; a road match all the way east in Charleston on July 30; and then a midweek road match just a few days later on August 3 in New Mexico. The club doesn't return home to Heart Health Park until Saturday, August 6 vs. Rio Grande Valley. Odds favor going 2-2 during this stretch, and while that may seem reasonable, only one thing is true when you're riding the line: it's not enough that you win, everyone else must lose.
Meanwhile, Sacramento looks to continue its historic US Open Cup run. The club faces MLS side Sporting Kansas City in the semifinal round on July 27. That match will be played at Heart Health Park, and it's already sold out. Having defeated the MLS side San Jose Earthquakes, Seattle Sounders and Los Angeles Galaxy already, the club should be confident in their ability to compete.
Of course, not winning in nearly one month raises questions and concerns. The short turn-around time between matches raises the likelihood of fatigue, the risk of yellow card accumulation, and the very real possibility that the club could return home having fallen below the line. Given the proven talent and many incredible results, surviving this midsummer stretch will take focus, discipline, and care. It can be done.
The rest of the month of August doesn't really get any easier. With four more matches split between home and road, the same challenges exist. The club will face Monterey on the road in what oddsmakers would say is a match they should win on August 13, but then they come home to face Colorado Springs just four days later in a match that will likely be much more difficult. They travel to Las Vegas for a match just three days after that; again, one they should win. However, they finish the month one week later at home against a dangerous rival Oakland Roots club that has presented challenges in the past.
Amid triple digit heat in a drought-plagued region where fire danger remains high, and with another COVID pandemic wave extending the health emergency now further complicated by monkeypox and avian flu, health, hydration, and rest remain critical. No one ever said the road to the playoffs was easy, let alone the road to a championship, of which Republic proudly has one star on their kits already. In order to compete for a second star is really going to take something special though, and the only way forward is to win.
Sacramento's next match is July 23 at Phoenix Rising FC. The match will be played at Phoenix Rising Stadium at Wild Horse Pass at 7:30 PM. The club returns home to host MLS side Sporting Kansas City in the semifinal round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup on Wednesday, July 27 at 7:30 PM. Within league play, Republic FC won't return to host a USL opponent until Saturday, August 6, when they host Rio Grande Valley FC at Heart Health Park at 8:00 PM. Broadcast details are pending.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, and has been covering professional soccer, including USL and Sacramento Republic FC, since their debut in 2014. All images taken by Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2022 Ahsan Awan for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. He can be found on Twitter as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi.
Timbers, Thorns Define Portland Sports Culture
PORTLAND – Portland, Oregon – The Rose City – is home to many things. Some say it’s where you can find the best craft beer and the greatest assortment of food trucks anywhere in the world. Many are quick to identify Portland as home to some of the world’s most influential corporations such as Nike and Intel. However, anyone who knows Portland also knows it’s a passionate sports town. From the NBA’s Trailblazers to MiLB’s Hillsboro Hops, NCAA sports at the University of Portland, Portland State University, Lewis & Clark University, nearby Salem’s Willamette University, or major statewide powers The University of Oregon and Oregon State University, people of all kinds of sports allegiance live in or around Portland.
However, there’s another kind of very special and incredibly passionate fan in Oregon, and especially in Portland, and that is the professional soccer fan. MLS’s Portland Timbers FC and the NWSL’s Portland Thorns are without a doubt Portland’s most popular professional sports teams. Their shared home, Providence Park, is an amazing venue in part due to its location and structural uniqueness, but also because the legions of passionate fans who attend the matches are unwavering in their support.
Nowhere in North American professional sports of any kind will you find a more passionate fanbase. Nowhere else in North America will you find such grand displays of loyalty. From massive tifos to seemingly never-ending songs and chants, the fans in Portland, and at Providence Park in particular, never disappoint. The Timbers Army is one of the finest support groups in all of sport. The Thorns side Riveters are equally extraordinary. In fact, the Rose City Riveters are without a doubt the greatest support group in all of women’s sports, professional or otherwise.
The Portland Timbers are currently one back below the redline, in eighth place with 24 points, only 2 points behind division rival San Jose. They compete at Seattle today in a match where a win moves the club up over the line. The western conference leading Sounders will surely prove difficult to defeat in their own home. For what it’s worth, San Jose hosts the Colorado Rapids, currently in third place in the western conference, on September 4, so the fight to stay above the redline could go on for some time. Nevertheless, the Timbers must win if they want to get into the playoffs.
The Portland Thorns present a different story. They’re the league leader. They’re in first place with a 5-point margin. They also compete tomorrow. With a relatively light 3-match September, and a moderate 5-match October, it’s likely impossible to keep the Thorns out of the playoffs. Furthermore, given just how good they are, odds favor the Thorns making a strong championship run. Their 10-match streak without a loss goes back to late June.
What are the odds that Portland becomes home to both 2021 MLS and NWSL champions? At this point, that’s tough to say; however, it very well may not be worth betting against. If you ask the fans of either of these clubs, many of whom are the same, they’ll tell you – no – they’ll show you! Experience either a Timbers or Thorns match in Portland and you’ll know the answer. You’ll know the odds. No matter what they are, you’ll feel the passion, commitment and love this city and its people have for these clubs. Have a look.
The Portland Timbers host the Colorado Rapids on Wednesday, September 15 at Providence Park. Kickoff is currently scheduled for 7pm PST. The Portland Thorns host the Washington Spirit on Saturday, September 4 at Providence Park. Kickoff is currently scheduled for 7:30pm PST.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for over a decade, including professional soccer and MLS since 2014. All images taken by Richard Kolbell for American Presswire and ©2021 Richard Kolbell for American Presswire subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Ahsan Awan can be found on Twitter as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. Richard Kolbell can be found on Twitter as @bokoripa and on Instagram as @richardkolbell.