This week, the Boys in Old Glory Red turn their attention to the oldest competition in all of American football. Taking the pitch for their first match of the 107th Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, the club will host Portland Timbers U-23, who took down Contra Costa FC in their first match of the tournament on Thursday.
At a Glance: SACvPT23
- Thursday, April 7
- 7:30 PM kickoff
- Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
- How to watch: Streaming on ESPN+
- Tickets and pre-paid parking
The Latest – Republic FC
Sacramento secured its third win in as many contests at home Saturday against Monterey Bay FC. Following the victory, Republic FC’s Rodrigo Lopez secured his second Team of the Week Honor, being named the league’s Best XI for netting the game’s opening goal and creating four scoring chances.
With a quick turnaround and a break from league play, Thursday’s match gives the club a great opportunity to fine tune and focus on themselves. Saturday, Republic FC put pressure on the visitors all night long and had Monterey on their heels constantly. However, making the right final action seemed to evade the club; this week in training getting the ball in the back of the net by any means necessary has been a major focus.
Opponent Report
The Oregon club brings a track record to Sacramento; last season, they reached the League Two semifinals, where they fell to the eventual champion Des Moines Menace. During the regular season they were among the league’s best, leading the Northwest Division with nine wins, just one draw and loss apiece, and a goal differential of +16
In addition, the squad’s roster possesses more than a handful of talented players who could easily impact the game and make Sacramento uncomfortable. In their first round match against Contra Costa FC, two scores early in the second half put momentum on their side, while six saves from goalkeeper Quinn McCallion in his debut start for the club kept their opponent’s attack at bay. A similar high-octane performance from them would be difficult for any side to manage.
History: The Indomitable Club in Open Cup
All-time, Republic FC has been defeated by a non-MLS opponent just once in the tournament, amassing a record of 13 wins and 6 losses.
Sacramento last featured in the U.S. Open Cup in 2019, the last time the tournament was held. Memorable second and third round victories – a downpour derby with Reno 1868 FC, and a penalty shootout win against fellow Central Valley club Fresno FC advanced Sacramento to the fourth round. Republic FC’s third match of the tournament took them on the road to the Bay Area, where they traded punches for all 90 minutes with San Jose Earthquakes, falling 4-3.
