Republic FC’s preparations headed south this week to take advantage of warmer weather in Tucson, Arizona. While in the desert, the club officially opens exhibition play in the FC Tucson Desert Showcase against MLS side Chicago Fire FC on Wednesday night. It’ll be the first test of the preseason, putting the club’s players against those wearing another uniform for the first time.
At a Glance: #SACvCHI
- Wednesday, February 8
- 5:00 PM PT Kickoff
- No broadcast available – follow @SacRepublicFC on Twitter for updates
- Kino North Stadium, Tucson, Arizona
The squad’s first true game action of the preseason poses a big test to the club. Getting a result isn’t the focus; instead, it’s seeing how the squad comes together, how the new faces on fit in to their new team, and where the team can focus over the next three weeks in preparation for a full season. Since the start of camp 11 days ago, the Quails have worked hard on the field to integrate the new players into the squad, and re-establish the habits necessary to have a successful season. The road to the season start includes 2 more MLS tests as well as some familiar USL opponents before the Indomitable Club kicks off its 10th season.
In addition, facing higher caliber players will provide a beneficial challenge to every member of the squad, from the veterans to the young players. Chicago’s 2023 MLS season is set to start at the end of the month, and they are a bit further on in their preparation and closer to fully fit. That makes the contest a bit more difficult for Republic FC, who face their first preseason opponent just over a week from reporting to training camp.
The Windy City Club is entering the 2023 campaign with high expectations. Since starting the preseason, they’ve already played in one match, upending Mexican side Cancun F.C. 5-0 on January 31. They possess strong midfield players, led by Swiss National Team captain Xherdan Shaqiri coming off a trip to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup. The club bid farewell to a few top contributors through overseas transfer this offseason – but that should open up opportunities for players from it’s deep youth development academy occupying the supplemental slots on its roster. Both tonight against Sacramento and during the regular season, Fire FC is likely to field a squad with plenty of youth.
