Republic FC is on the road again in Week 3, setting out to face off with Indy Eleven – their second straight Eastern Conference opponent. It’s the second match all-time between the two clubs, the first to take place in the Circle City.
The club heads to the Midwest after securing three points against Miami FC. Through the first two weeks of the season, the Quails have showcased their strengths – playing well defensively and in possession of the ball. As a result, the club enters Week 3 in a tie at the top of the Western Conference table and with the confidence of the coaching staff.
“Collectively, it was a very good performance. Individually the guys had an excellent game,” Republic FC Assistant Coach Martín Vásquez on last Saturday’s performance. “Going into this weekend, I think we’re showing some consistency in our style of play in some of the ways we defend, some of the ways we move the ball with good moments and good sequences.”
“After the first game, we were frustrated we didn’t get that win, especially conceding so late,” said Nick Ross. “To get the first one is huge, and especially away from home, it’s not going to be easy. We want to pick up as many points as we can on the road.”
Saturday’s contest matches Sacramento with a club that has performed well to open the season. Indy Eleven put constant pressure on Oakland Roots in a 2-1 defeat in Week 1, posting 11 shots from inside the penalty area and holding 60% of possession. The Boys in Blue emerged victorious in Week 2 over Memphis 901 FC behind two first-half scores in a 2-1 win. The hosts will also be playing their first home match this week and will have the support of home fans.
“They are a very good team, and got a great result against Memphis,” Vásquez continued. “They’re a blue-collar team with good players and good quality. They’re trying to find themselves and have a great mentality. It’s going to be a tough game and a hard game to play in.”
Another road contest presents a challenge to the Indomitable Club, who travel three time zones for the second straight week. Since the start of 2023, the club has been strong away from home, picking up the second-most points in the league in road contests (30). Republic FC is also unbeaten against its last 15 matches against Eastern Conference opponents.
“It’s very important for us to go in with a good mentality, especially when we think about going on a second road trip back-to-back,” said Luis Felipe. “We need to go with a winning mentality and try to get as many points as we can so that we can move forward on a positive note after that.”
