From the club’s first match of the U.S. Open Cup in April to the Final six months later, Sacramento’s captain delivered as Republic FC made a historic run to the final.For his performance, Rodrigo Lopez was named TheCup.us Player of the Tournament, honoring the top player from the yearly competition’s 107th edition. Lopez was also named the Lower Division Player of the Tournament making him the first player to sweep both awards since lower division award was added in 2012. Since 2008, no lower division player had taken home Player of the Tournament honors.
The Player of the Tournament awards are voted on by TheCup.us staff, a select panel from the North American Soccer Reporters and select backers who support the work of TheCup.us.
Lopez told TheCup.us, “I am a little bit shocked to be honest … something that I wasn’t expecting especially after not winning the US Open Cup. (But) to be awarded this MVP brings a little joy to me and to the work I’ve put in throughout the season and obviously the work of my teammates, coaching staff and everyone involved with the Republic.”
Lopez finished the tournament with a share of the golden boot at four scores, tiedwith two other players. His tournament leading four assists and eight scoring contributions led all players. His selection also honored his deciding penalty against Sporting Kansas City, his 84th minute match-sealing score from distance against San Jose Earthquakes, and opening goal against LA Galaxy.
“It means a lot, but I don’t like to take full credit of the success this club has had or I’ve had,” said Lopez. “It’s all built around a team and I’ve been very lucky to play under great coaches and alongside amazing players.”
In addition to Lopez, Sacramento goalkeeper Danny Vitiello was named TheCup.us Player of the Round for the Semifinals, highlighting his performance against Sporting Kansas City in a match decided by penalty shootout. Luis Felipe took home the quarterfinal Player of the Roundhonor for netting the eventual winner against LA Galaxy on the road June 21.
