Two days after a Rafa Diaz-led Mexican National Team downed 12-seeded Memphis 901 FC’s Austria 3-1 in the opening round of the FIFA tournament, the 21-seeded boys in Old Glory Red have a quick turnaround on their hands with a midweek matchup against 5-seeded OKC Energy FC – playing as Portugal.

Wednesday’s Round of 16 fixture will take place at 5:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on the club’s Twitch stream, twitch.tv/SacramentoRepublicFC/.

Two days after a Rafa Diaz-led Mexican National Team downed 12-seeded Memphis 901 FC’s Austria 3-1 in the opening round of the FIFA tournament, the 21-seeded boys in Old Glory Red have a quick turnaround on their hands with a midweek matchup against 5-seeded OKC Energy FC – playing as Portugal.

Wednesday’s Round of 16 fixture will take place at 5:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on the club’s Twitch stream, twitch.tv/SacramentoRepublicFC/.

Diaz will be handing the controller over to Ashkanov Apollon as the defender will be making his debut for the boys in Old Glory Red against Portugal and one of the game’s most recognizable names – Cristiano Ronaldo. 

Portugal performed near-flawlessly in Energy FC’s opening game 3-0 win over in-state rival and 28-seeded FC Tulsa who was handed the United States following Friday’s live draw. The European juggernaut’s offense looked sharp in their first match as Ronaldo bagged a brace, bookending a first half Bruma goal. Frank Lopez, Energy FC's Cuban forward, had the controller in-hand for Monday's win and will be the man in charge for the second straight match. 

On paper from the top of the roster to the very bottom, Portugal is stacked. If SRFC focuses exclusively on Ronaldo, playmakers like Joao Moutinho, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva will bury strikes from anywhere inside the box and punish mistakes by way of an explosive counterattack. 

Diaz will be handing the controller over to Ashkanov Apollon as the defender will be making his debut for the boys in Old Glory Red against Portugal and one of the game’s most recognizable names – Cristiano Ronaldo. 

Portugal performed near-flawlessly in Energy FC’s opening game 3-0 win over in-state rival and 28-seeded FC Tulsa who was handed the United States following Friday’s live draw. The European juggernaut’s offense looked sharp in their first match as Ronaldo bagged a brace, bookending a first half Bruma goal. Frank Lopez, Energy FC’s Cuban forward, had the controller in-hand for Monday’s win and will be the man in charge for the second straight match. 

On paper from the top of the roster to the very bottom, Portugal is stacked. If SRFC focuses exclusively on Ronaldo, playmakers like Joao Moutinho, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva will bury strikes from anywhere inside the box and punish mistakes by way of an explosive counterattack. 

The competition’s play-in bracket continues as all 32 sides compete in a 1v1 fixture to secure a spot in one of three divisions. After this week’s qualifying play, clubs will take part in a weekly promotion/relegation-style format where each side will fight for promotion to a higher league or ward off the opposition to remain in the top division with four teams moving in either direction each week. 

The Indomitable Club’s roster for the competition includes Juan Barahona, Rafael Diaz and Ashkanov Apollon. Joining the current Republic FC players is Justin Sterk, the winner of the inaugural SRFCxFIFA20 Tournament. 

Additional information can be found on the official USL eCup: FIFA20 Edition page and the full schedule can be found on the eCup Schedule page. 

The competition’s play-in bracket continues as all 32 sides compete in a 1v1 fixture to secure a spot in one of three divisions. After this week’s qualifying play, clubs will take part in a weekly promotion/relegation-style format where each side will fight for promotion to a higher league or ward off the opposition to remain in the top division with four teams moving in either direction each week. 

The Indomitable Club’s roster for the competition includes Juan Barahona, Rafael Diaz and Ashkanov Apollon. Joining the current Republic FC players is Justin Sterk, the winner of the inaugural SRFCxFIFA20 Tournament. 

Additional information can be found on the official USL eCup: FIFA20 Edition page and the full schedule can be found on the eCup Schedule page. 

It’s rare for the boys in Old Glory Red to have an opportunity to play against an Eastern Conference opposition but in the inaugural USL eCup FIFA20 Tournament, Republic FC’s very first contest is against former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard’s Tennessee team, Memphis 901 FC. 

It’s rare for the boys in Old Glory Red to have an opportunity to play against an Eastern Conference opposition but in the inaugural USL eCup FIFA20 Tournament, Republic FC’s very first contest is against former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard’s Tennessee team, Memphis 901 FC. 

Both Championship clubs took part in Friday’s live draw, with 12-seeded Memphis being dealt the European nation of Austria while 21-seeded Republic FC was awarded the Mexican National Team. Monday’s match will take place at 5:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on the club’s Twitch stream, twitch.tv/SacramentoRepublicFC/.

El Triis a 4-star rating in FIFA20 and will be the country Republic FC will compete with for the entirety of the tournament played exclusively on Playstation 4. Mexico has no shortage of offensive firepower, anchored by Raul Jimenez who over the last two seasons has become a perennial goal scoring powerhouse in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers while Hirving Lozano – now with Napoli – has been one of the most sought-after names in the global game by the world’s biggest clubs. 

Republic FC’s roster for the competition includes Juan Barahona, Rafael Diaz and Ashkanov Apollon. Joining the current SRFC players is Justin Sterk, the winner of the inaugural SRFCxFIFA20 Tournament. Monday’s inaugural match will feature Diaz with the controller in-hand and hoping to help his side kick off the competition with a win in the opening fixture. 

Memphis made a massive splash over the offseason by signing one of the most recognizable goalkeepers the game has seen over the last decade, Tim Howard. However, 901 FC would love to have Howard between the pipes on Monday night, as Austra’s goalkeeper position is likely the weakest one in its starting eleven. 

Similarly, to Mexico, Austria is a 4-star rating and the team’s greatest strength is definitely in the attacking third. Striker Marco Arnautovic – who left EPL’s West Ham for a lucrative offer in China – is a powerful presence with surprising pace. If Arnautovic finds space in the box, he rarely fails to capitalize. Playmaker Marcel Sabitzer – who plays for RB Leipzig in Germany’s Bundesliga – is the midfield maestro with the capabilities to create countless scoring chances for his teammates alongside Bayern Munich’s defender Daniel Alaba who will frequently add offensive support from the left flank as he marches upfield.

The competition debuts with a play-in round that sees all 32 sides compete in a 1v1 fixture to secure a spot in one of three divisions. After a week of qualifying play, clubs will compete in a weekly promotion/relegation-style format where each side will fight for promotion to a higher league or ward off the opposition to remain in the top division with four teams moving in either direction each week. 

Additional information can be found on the official USL eCup: FIFA20 Edition page and the full schedule can be found on the eCup Schedule page. 

Check back for a full recap of the match against Memphis with the winner set to play Wednesday against the winner of FC Tulsa playing as the United States and OKC Energy FC competing as Portugal. 

Both Championship clubs took part in Friday’s live draw, with 12-seeded Memphis being dealt the European nation of Austria while 21-seeded Republic FC was awarded the Mexican National Team. Monday’s match will take place at 5:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on the club’s Twitch stream, twitch.tv/SacramentoRepublicFC/.

El Triis a 4-star rating in FIFA20 and will be the country Republic FC will compete with for the entirety of the tournament played exclusively on Playstation 4. Mexico has no shortage of offensive firepower, anchored by Raul Jimenez who over the last two seasons has become a perennial goal scoring powerhouse in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers while Hirving Lozano – now with Napoli – has been one of the most sought-after names in the global game by the world’s biggest clubs. 

Republic FC’s roster for the competition includes Juan Barahona, Rafael Diaz and Ashkanov Apollon. Joining the current SRFC players is Justin Sterk, the winner of the inaugural SRFCxFIFA20 Tournament. Monday’s inaugural match will feature Diaz with the controller in-hand and hoping to help his side kick off the competition with a win in the opening fixture. 

Memphis made a massive splash over the offseason by signing one of the most recognizable goalkeepers the game has seen over the last decade, Tim Howard. However, 901 FC would love to have Howard between the pipes on Monday night, as Austra’s goalkeeper position is likely the weakest one in its starting eleven. 

Similarly, to Mexico, Austria is a 4-star rating and the team’s greatest strength is definitely in the attacking third. Striker Marco Arnautovic – who left EPL’s West Ham for a lucrative offer in China – is a powerful presence with surprising pace. If Arnautovic finds space in the box, he rarely fails to capitalize. Playmaker Marcel Sabitzer – who plays for RB Leipzig in Germany’s Bundesliga – is the midfield maestro with the capabilities to create countless scoring chances for his teammates alongside Bayern Munich’s defender Daniel Alaba who will frequently add offensive support from the left flank as he marches upfield.

The competition debuts with a play-in round that sees all 32 sides compete in a 1v1 fixture to secure a spot in one of three divisions. After a week of qualifying play, clubs will compete in a weekly promotion/relegation-style format where each side will fight for promotion to a higher league or ward off the opposition to remain in the top division with four teams moving in either direction each week. 

Additional information can be found on the official USL eCup: FIFA20 Edition page and the full schedule can be found on the eCup Schedule page. 

Check back for a full recap of the match against Memphis with the winner set to play Wednesday against the winner of FC Tulsa playing as the United States and OKC Energy FC competing as Portugal. 

At a Glance:  #SACvTUL

• Saturday, March 7
• 7:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Papa Murphy’s Park, Sacramento, California
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish), ESPN+ (Digital)
• Tickets

At a Glance:  #SACvTUL

• Saturday, March 7
• 7:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Papa Murphy’s Park, Sacramento, California
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish), ESPN+ (Digital)
• Tickets

What’s the latest on the team?

Republic FC (0-0-0, 0 pts) look to carry the wave of positive momentum from an action-packed preseason training camp into the 2020 USL Championship regular season campaign that kicks off on Saturday night at home against FC Tulsa. 

Mark Briggs’ men have endured a handful of challenging preseason contests and took positive strides in every single one. The club concluded its run of training camp scrimmages with five consecutive wins to close out the preseason — one of which was against a solid MLS San Jose Earthquakes team, 3-1, and another being a come-from-behind 3-2 win against the 2019 defending USL Championship Trophy Winners, Real Monarchs SLC, who fielded several players from Real Salt Lake’s MLS roster. 

What’s the latest on the team?

Republic FC (0-0-0, 0 pts) look to carry the wave of positive momentum from an action-packed preseason training camp into the 2020 USL Championship regular season campaign that kicks off on Saturday night at home against FC Tulsa. 

Mark Briggs’ men have endured a handful of challenging preseason contests and took positive strides in every single one. The club concluded its run of training camp scrimmages with five consecutive wins to close out the preseason — one of which was against a solid MLS San Jose Earthquakes team, 3-1, and another being a come-from-behind 3-2 win against the 2019 defending USL Championship Trophy Winners, Real Monarchs SLC, who fielded several players from Real Salt Lake’s MLS roster. 

The results were comforting to see, but not crucial. 

In fact, the most pivotal part of training camp was the opportunity for all Republic FC players, academy members included, to earn precious playing time with the first team and accrue beneficial minutes against some of the top domestic clubs. The boys in Old Glory Red had the chance to see how they stacked up against west coast powerhouses like the 2019 MLS Cup Champion Seattle Sounders FC, established MLS-side San Jose, and the reigning USL champs Real Monarchs.

The USL is clearly taking notice of Republic FC’s positive preseason performances, including the league office that listed SRFC 6thin the entire USL Championship power rankings heading into the regular season. The league also recognized goalkeeper Adam Grinwis as one of the top netminders to keep an eye on in 2020. 

Along with Grinwis (Orlando City SC) who signed with the Indomitable Club this offseason, new to the team this year are defenders Ashkanov Apollon (SR Colmar) and Tomas Hilliard-Arce (LA Galaxy II), midfielders Rodrigo Lopez (Veracruz) and Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu (Phoenix Rising FC/FC Tucson) and attacking threat Kharlton Belmar (Nashville SC). 

Joining the first team this season after signing their first professional contracts are 17-year-old academy standouts midfielder Mario Penagos and defender Hayden Sargis. 

 

The results were comforting to see, but not crucial. 

In fact, the most pivotal part of training camp was the opportunity for all Republic FC players, academy members included, to earn precious playing time with the first team and accrue beneficial minutes against some of the top domestic clubs. The boys in Old Glory Red had the chance to see how they stacked up against west coast powerhouses like the 2019 MLS Cup Champion Seattle Sounders FC, established MLS-side San Jose, and the reigning USL champs Real Monarchs.

The USL is clearly taking notice of Republic FC’s positive preseason performances, including the league office that listed SRFC 6thin the entire USL Championship power rankings heading into the regular season. The league also recognized goalkeeper Adam Grinwis as one of the top netminders to keep an eye on in 2020. 

Along with Grinwis (Orlando City SC) who signed with the Indomitable Club this offseason, new to the team this year are defenders Ashkanov Apollon (SR Colmar) and Tomas Hilliard-Arce (LA Galaxy II), midfielders Rodrigo Lopez (Veracruz) and Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu (Phoenix Rising FC/FC Tucson) and attacking threat Kharlton Belmar (Nashville SC). 

Joining the first team this season after signing their first professional contracts are 17-year-old academy standouts midfielder Mario Penagos and defender Hayden Sargis. 

 

What about the other guys?

FC Tulsa (0-0-0, 0 pts) is fresh off a recent rebrand from Tulsa Roughnecks FC after a new ownership group stepped in and purchased the midwestern club. 

FC Tulsa enters its sixth season in the league and despite the changes in the front office and club’s color scheme, the team’s top players from last year as well as Head Coach Michael Nsien are returning for a redemption campaign following a 2019 season that saw the Oklahoman club finish 16th in the Western Conference. 

Of the many new faces listed on the Tulsa roster, midfielder Lebo Moloto and defender Bradley Bourgeois have both been plucked away from Nashville SC and should both make a positive contribution to the club. Over the last five seasons, Moloto has recorded the fourth-most assists in the entire league (27) while Bourgeois previously played for Tulsa in 2017 where he helped to guide his side to the club’s first and only postseason berth. 

But the most notable name on the roster is the return of Rodrigo da Costa. The Brazilian playmaker notched nine goals and 13 assists last season (both team highs) and was the only player from a non-playoff team last year to be named to the 2019 Championship All-League Team. 

What about the other guys?

FC Tulsa (0-0-0, 0 pts) is fresh off a recent rebrand from Tulsa Roughnecks FC after a new ownership group stepped in and purchased the midwestern club. 

FC Tulsa enters its sixth season in the league and despite the changes in the front office and club’s color scheme, the team’s top players from last year as well as Head Coach Michael Nsien are returning for a redemption campaign following a 2019 season that saw the Oklahoman club finish 16th in the Western Conference. 

Of the many new faces listed on the Tulsa roster, midfielder Lebo Moloto and defender Bradley Bourgeois have both been plucked away from Nashville SC and should both make a positive contribution to the club. Over the last five seasons, Moloto has recorded the fourth-most assists in the entire league (27) while Bourgeois previously played for Tulsa in 2017 where he helped to guide his side to the club’s first and only postseason berth. 

But the most notable name on the roster is the return of Rodrigo da Costa. The Brazilian playmaker notched nine goals and 13 assists last season (both team highs) and was the only player from a non-playoff team last year to be named to the 2019 Championship All-League Team. 

Head-to-Head

The Indomitable Club has never lost to FC Tulsa and has claimed victory in eight of nine previous contests.  

Head-to-Head

The Indomitable Club has never lost to FC Tulsa and has claimed victory in eight of nine previous contests.  

The last time Tulsa visited Sacramento was the largest margin of victory for the Indomitable Club during league play in club history, 6-0. Both Cameron Iwasa and Stefano Bonomo bagged a brace a piece, earning both strikers a spot on the Championship Team of the Week for Week 16.   

Last season during SRFC’s heated playoff push, the boys in Old Glory Red visited a tricky Tulsa team that was in the midst of an impressive run that included three wins in their last six matches. But a streaky Tulsa team couldn’t deny Republic FC a massive road win as Sacramento escaped Oklahoma with a 3-2 win. 

Republic FC fans will recognize on the opposing bench the familiar face of Nemanja Vukovic who previously played for the Indomitable Club from 2014-2015. The Montenegrin defender made 56 appearances for SRFC and was a member of the 2014 USL Championship-winning team. 

• Overall: 8-0-1  (GF: 29; GA: 9) 
• Home: 3-0-1 
• Away: 5-0-0

The last time Tulsa visited Sacramento was the largest margin of victory for the Indomitable Club during league play in club history, 6-0. Both Cameron Iwasa and Stefano Bonomo bagged a brace a piece, earning both strikers a spot on the Championship Team of the Week for Week 16.   

Last season during SRFC’s heated playoff push, the boys in Old Glory Red visited a tricky Tulsa team that was in the midst of an impressive run that included three wins in their last six matches. But a streaky Tulsa team couldn’t deny Republic FC a massive road win as Sacramento escaped Oklahoma with a 3-2 win. 

Republic FC fans will recognize on the opposing bench the familiar face of Nemanja Vukovic who previously played for the Indomitable Club from 2014-2015. The Montenegrin defender made 56 appearances for SRFC and was a member of the 2014 USL Championship-winning team. 

• Overall: 8-0-1  (GF: 29; GA: 9) 
• Home: 3-0-1 
• Away: 5-0-0

How to Watch & Follow

Tickets for the match are on sale at www.sacrepublicfc.com/tickets and be sure to stick around for postgame fireworks immediately following the final whistle. Saturday’s match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish) and ESPN+ (Digital). Updates online will also be provided via Twitter at @SacRepublicFC or by following #SACvTUL. To see more matchday information, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday-guide

How to Watch & Follow

Tickets for the match are on sale at www.sacrepublicfc.com/tickets and be sure to stick around for postgame fireworks immediately following the final whistle. Saturday’s match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish) and ESPN+ (Digital). Updates online will also be provided via Twitter at @SacRepublicFC or by following #SACvTUL. To see more matchday information, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday-guide

Republic FC’s regular season is right around the corner, but before the boys in Old Glory Red kickoff the 2020 USL Championship campaign, the club will host the 2019 USL Championship titleholders for a preseason exhibition match. 

This Saturday evening, the Indomitable Club will clash with Real Monarchs SLC at Papa Murphy’s Park and the contest will be the first opportunity to check out the 2020 squad in action. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. PT and tickets can be purchased at www.sacrepublicfc.com.

Republic FC’s regular season is right around the corner, but before the boys in Old Glory Red kickoff the 2020 USL Championship campaign, the club will host the 2019 USL Championship titleholders for a preseason exhibition match. 

This Saturday evening, the Indomitable Club will clash with Real Monarchs SLC at Papa Murphy’s Park and the contest will be the first opportunity to check out the 2020 squad in action. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. PT and tickets can be purchased at www.sacrepublicfc.com.

Mark Briggs’ men have endured quite a successful training camp thus far, earning victories in three consecutive matches but most importantly, the roster, including Republic FC Academy players, has collected coveted minutes against quality oppositions – including two matches against quality Major League Soccer clubs. 

Last week, the boys in Old Glory Red beat two Bay Area teams in just two days. On Friday, SRFC downed MLS-side San Jose Earthquakes in Silicon Valley, 3-1. The very next day, the team earned a 2-1 win over Oakland Roots SC at Cosumnes River College. 

Mark Briggs’ men have endured quite a successful training camp thus far, earning victories in three consecutive matches but most importantly, the roster, including Republic FC Academy players, has collected coveted minutes against quality oppositions – including two matches against quality Major League Soccer clubs. 

Last week, the boys in Old Glory Red beat two Bay Area teams in just two days. On Friday, SRFC downed MLS-side San Jose Earthquakes in Silicon Valley, 3-1. The very next day, the team earned a 2-1 win over Oakland Roots SC at Cosumnes River College. 

Real Monarchs SLC

Real Monarchs SLC

Real Monarchs finished the 2019 regular season in fourth place in the Western Conference and momentum carried the club to the USL Championship final. 

During the tail end of the regular season, Monarchs pulled of the colossal upset when the team traveled to Phoenix during Rising FC’s seemingly unstoppable home game winning streak and Jamison Olave’s side shocked the record-shattering club in Arizona, 2-1. 

Real Monarchs finished the 2019 regular season in fourth place in the Western Conference and momentum carried the club to the USL Championship final. 

During the tail end of the regular season, Monarchs pulled of the colossal upset when the team traveled to Phoenix during Rising FC’s seemingly unstoppable home game winning streak and Jamison Olave’s side shocked the record-shattering club in Arizona, 2-1. 

A confident Monarchs team visited Phoenix a few weeks later during the postseason and by the same 2-1 scoreline, escaped the southwest with a win and brought Rising FC’s remarkable 2019 campaign to a close in the Western Conference Semifinals. After Olave’s team beat El Paso Locomotive FC in the Western Conference Finals, Monarchs met Louisville City FC in the Cup Final and emerged as 3-1 victors. 

Monarchs were a formidable force throughout the 2019 season. The club scored 71 goals on the year, which is tied for the sixth-most goals scored during a single USL season. Monarchs scored six past Orange County during postseason play which was the third-most goals scored by a club in a single playoff game. The 6-2 playoff win for Monarchs over OCSC was the second-most combined goals scored by both clubs (8).

A confident Monarchs team visited Phoenix a few weeks later during the postseason and by the same 2-1 scoreline, escaped the southwest with a win and brought Rising FC’s remarkable 2019 campaign to a close in the Western Conference Semifinals. After Olave’s team beat El Paso Locomotive FC in the Western Conference Finals, Monarchs met Louisville City FC in the Cup Final and emerged as 3-1 victors. 

Monarchs were a formidable force throughout the 2019 season. The club scored 71 goals on the year, which is tied for the sixth-most goals scored during a single USL season. Monarchs scored six past Orange County during postseason play which was the third-most goals scored by a club in a single playoff game. The 6-2 playoff win for Monarchs over OCSC was the second-most combined goals scored by both clubs (8).

The defending champions have their sights set on another successful campaign and have acquired some quality talent this offseason to do so. One notable name is 21-year-old Devin Vega who plied his trade in Phoenix during the 2018 season. Vega, an attacking midfielder, earned a call-up to the Puerto Rico Men’s National Team this past November. 

Another new face joining the reigning champs is goalkeeper Jimmy Slayton who joins the club from the University of Hartford where the shot-stopper set a school record for single-season shutouts and was selected to the America East All-Conference Second Team in 2019. 

Saturday’s friendly will be streaming live on YouTube and fans attending the match will have the opportunity to meet the team postgame in the Market at the stadium. Republic FC open the 2020 USL Championship regular season at home next Saturday against FC Tulsa. Kickoff at Papa Murphy’s Park is set for 7:30 p.m. PT. 

The defending champions have their sights set on another successful campaign and have acquired some quality talent this offseason to do so. One notable name is 21-year-old Devin Vega who plied his trade in Phoenix during the 2018 season. Vega, an attacking midfielder, earned a call-up to the Puerto Rico Men’s National Team this past November. 

Another new face joining the reigning champs is goalkeeper Jimmy Slayton who joins the club from the University of Hartford where the shot-stopper set a school record for single-season shutouts and was selected to the America East All-Conference Second Team in 2019. 

Saturday’s friendly will be streaming live on YouTube and fans attending the match will have the opportunity to meet the team postgame in the Market at the stadium. Republic FC open the 2020 USL Championship regular season at home next Saturday against FC Tulsa. Kickoff at Papa Murphy’s Park is set for 7:30 p.m. PT. 

Republic FC will hit the road for the club’s second test of the 2020 training camp campaign against a Major League Soccer opponent. 

This Friday, the boys in Old Glory Red visit San Jose Earthquakes for a closed-door training camp exhibition match against the MLS-side that finished the 2019 regular season in eighth place in the Western Conference. 

Republic FC will hit the road for the club’s second test of the 2020 training camp campaign against a Major League Soccer opponent. 

This Friday, the boys in Old Glory Red visit San Jose Earthquakes for a closed-door training camp exhibition match against the MLS-side that finished the 2019 regular season in eighth place in the Western Conference. 

Despite competing in two different leagues, these two Northern California clubs have clashed before — the most recent being a seven-goal thriller that saw the Indomitable Club claim the lead on two separate occasions during the first half. San Jose went on to win the match, 4-3, but the boys in Old Glory Red put on a solid performance that nearly upset the MLS club. 

Heading into Friday’s contest against the ‘Quakes, Republic FC recently recorded a 1-0 exhibition match victory over regional rivals Reno 1868 FC. The win was a nice touch, but every player logged 60 minutes against the club that finished the 2019 USL Championship regular season runners-up in the Western Conference to record-shattering Phoenix Rising FC. 

That included half a dozen academy players and trialists who recorded invaluable minutes heading into the 2020 regular season. 

Despite competing in two different leagues, these two Northern California clubs have clashed before — the most recent being a seven-goal thriller that saw the Indomitable Club claim the lead on two separate occasions during the first half. San Jose went on to win the match, 4-3, but the boys in Old Glory Red put on a solid performance that nearly upset the MLS club. 

Heading into Friday’s contest against the ‘Quakes, Republic FC recently recorded a 1-0 exhibition match victory over regional rivals Reno 1868 FC. The win was a nice touch, but every player logged 60 minutes against the club that finished the 2019 USL Championship regular season runners-up in the Western Conference to record-shattering Phoenix Rising FC. 

That included half a dozen academy players and trialists who recorded invaluable minutes heading into the 2020 regular season. 

San Jose Earthquakes

San Jose Earthquakes

The Earthquakes are fresh off their first full season with Matias Almeyda at the helm. 

Following a regular season campaign where the team finished tied for the fifth-most goals in the entire conference, Almeyda had his side playing attractive, high-intensity soccer and with the core of his team returning, the Argentinian manager undoubtedly has his squad believing they can finish higher than 2019’s eighth place finish in the Western Conference which caused them to narrowly missing out on playoffs by four points. 

The Earthquakes are fresh off their first full season with Matias Almeyda at the helm. 

Following a regular season campaign where the team finished tied for the fifth-most goals in the entire conference, Almeyda had his side playing attractive, high-intensity soccer and with the core of his team returning, the Argentinian manager undoubtedly has his squad believing they can finish higher than 2019’s eighth place finish in the Western Conference which caused them to narrowly missing out on playoffs by four points. 

It’s hard to fathom, but MLS’s all-time leading scorer Chris Wondolowski has indicated this could be his final professional season following a decorated domestic career. The hometown hero bagged 15 goals last season and if he can manage to hit double digits in 2020, he’ll finish his illustrious MLS career with 11 consecutive seasons with 10 goals or more, before potentially riding off into the proverbial sunset. 

Wondo’s likely the most recognizable name but Cristian Espinoza is potentially the most dangerous one. During the offseason, San Jose made Espinoza’s loan move permanent after impressing on the flanks during the 2019 campaign. He only netted twice last season but should be considered a sleeping giant, ready to erupt offensively at any moment. 

It’s hard to fathom, but MLS’s all-time leading scorer Chris Wondolowski has indicated this could be his final professional season following a decorated domestic career. The hometown hero bagged 15 goals last season and if he can manage to hit double digits in 2020, he’ll finish his illustrious MLS career with 11 consecutive seasons with 10 goals or more, before potentially riding off into the proverbial sunset. 

Wondo’s likely the most recognizable name but Cristian Espinoza is potentially the most dangerous one. During the offseason, San Jose made Espinoza’s loan move permanent after impressing on the flanks during the 2019 campaign. He only netted twice last season but should be considered a sleeping giant, ready to erupt offensively at any moment. 

Another midfield threat is Jackson Yueill who earned his first ever call up to the senior U.S. Men’s National Team squad this past June. He isn’t one to light up the scoreboard, but his sumptuous passing makes him a constant threat in the attacking third. 

# # #

Another midfield threat is Jackson Yueill who earned his first ever call up to the senior U.S. Men’s National Team squad this past June. He isn’t one to light up the scoreboard, but his sumptuous passing makes him a constant threat in the attacking third. 

# # #

Republic FC’s preseason training camp is well under way and Wednesday morning will be the first test of the 2020 season. 

And it’s a massive one. 

The boys in Old Glory Red visit the 2019 MLS Cup Champions Seattle Sounders FC for a closed-door exhibition friendly in the Pacific Northwest. But Mark Briggs’ men won’t be intimidated against a top tier opposition, after all, these two West Coast clubs have clashed before. 

The Indomitable Club previously played Seattle Sounders FC in the Fourth Round of the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup with SRFC upsetting the MLS-side with a 2-1 win after extra time. Republic FC forward Cameron Iwasa opened the scoring before a 90thminute strike from Seattle meant an additional half hour of play would be needed to break the deadlock. Republic FC did so, in the 115thwith Jure Matjasic playing the role of hero with the winning strike.

Republic FC’s preseason training camp is well under way and Wednesday morning will be the first test of the 2020 season. 

And it’s a massive one. 

The boys in Old Glory Red visit the 2019 MLS Cup Champions Seattle Sounders FC for a closed-door exhibition friendly in the Pacific Northwest. But Mark Briggs’ men won’t be intimidated against a top tier opposition, after all, these two West Coast clubs have clashed before. 

The Indomitable Club previously played Seattle Sounders FC in the Fourth Round of the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup with SRFC upsetting the MLS-side with a 2-1 win after extra time. Republic FC forward Cameron Iwasa opened the scoring before a 90thminute strike from Seattle meant an additional half hour of play would be needed to break the deadlock. Republic FC did so, in the 115thwith Jure Matjasic playing the role of hero with the winning strike.

Republic FC has one player very familiar with Seattle as defender Jordan McCrary played for Sounders FC in 2018 and made 20 appearances for the Pacific Northwest club across all competitions.

Before the Indomitable Club takes the pitch against the reigning champions from the nation’s top division, let’s have a look at the upcoming opposition. 

Republic FC has one player very familiar with Seattle as defender Jordan McCrary played for Sounders FC in 2018 and made 20 appearances for the Pacific Northwest club across all competitions.

Before the Indomitable Club takes the pitch against the reigning champions from the nation’s top division, let’s have a look at the upcoming opposition. 

Seattle Sounders FC

Seattle Sounders FC

The Rave Green have a big year ahead of them. 

Before their first MLS match on March 1, Seattle has Concacaf Champions League duty to tend to. Sounders FC will visit Hondoras’s most decorated club, C.D. Olimpia on February 20 for Leg One of the Round of 16 showdown. 

The Concacaf Champions League is a prestigious competition, and it’s one of potentially five competitions Seattle will compete in during the 2020 season. Sounders FC have the MLS regular season and Concacaf Champions League on the horizon with the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup a few months away. 

The Rave Green have a big year ahead of them. 

Before their first MLS match on March 1, Seattle has Concacaf Champions League duty to tend to. Sounders FC will visit Hondoras’s most decorated club, C.D. Olimpia on February 20 for Leg One of the Round of 16 showdown. 

The Concacaf Champions League is a prestigious competition, and it’s one of potentially five competitions Seattle will compete in during the 2020 season. Sounders FC have the MLS regular season and Concacaf Champions League on the horizon with the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup a few months away. 

Obviously, Sounders FC is hoping to repeat a title-winning campaign and compete in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, but the club also has the honor of competing in the Campeones Cup which is an annual North American match played between the MLS Cup champion and the winner of the Campeon de Campeones from Liga MX. The championship match will be against Club America and played at CenturyLink Field, Sounders FC’s home turf. 

With the variety of competitions ahead of them in 2020, the two-time MLS Cup Champions have a solid core of players that can handle the busy campaign. Anchoring that core is the club’s newly signed Designated Player, 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder João Paulo from Botafogo in his home country. Paulo is expected to make an immediate impact given fellow DP Nicolas Lodeiro is receiving treatment for tendinitis in Uruguay. 

Obviously, Sounders FC is hoping to repeat a title-winning campaign and compete in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, but the club also has the honor of competing in the Campeones Cup which is an annual North American match played between the MLS Cup champion and the winner of the Campeon de Campeones from Liga MX. The championship match will be against Club America and played at CenturyLink Field, Sounders FC’s home turf. 

With the variety of competitions ahead of them in 2020, the two-time MLS Cup Champions have a solid core of players that can handle the busy campaign. Anchoring that core is the club’s newly signed Designated Player, 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder João Paulo from Botafogo in his home country. Paulo is expected to make an immediate impact given fellow DP Nicolas Lodeiro is receiving treatment for tendinitis in Uruguay. 

But the most notable name on the Seattle roster is U.S. Men’s National Team coveted young forward, Jordan Morris. The striker, who played collegiately at Stanford with Republic FC players Drew Skundrich, Sam Werner and Tomas Hilliard-Arce, skipped his senior season to go pro and received the league’s highest-ever Homegrown Player contract in 2016. In his Sounders FC career, Morris has 25 career goals in MLS play. 

Seattle has plenty of promising young talent, but there are a handful of crafty veterans who offer plenty of experience and locker room leadership. Manning the goal is 33-year-old Stefan Frei who has been a reliable shot stopper since he joined the club in 2014. Forward Raul Ruidiaz is a 29-year-old Peruvian goal scorer who led Sounders in scores the last two seasons and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. In the midfield, Cristian Roldan has matured into a regular starter and has been previously called up to the U.S. Men’s National Team. 

Want to catch some of the action? The friendly isn’t being televised but fans can catch live updates and coverage on Twitter by following @SacRepublicFC.

But the most notable name on the Seattle roster is U.S. Men’s National Team coveted young forward, Jordan Morris. The striker, who played collegiately at Stanford with Republic FC players Drew Skundrich, Sam Werner and Tomas Hilliard-Arce, skipped his senior season to go pro and received the league’s highest-ever Homegrown Player contract in 2016. In his Sounders FC career, Morris has 25 career goals in MLS play. 

Seattle has plenty of promising young talent, but there are a handful of crafty veterans who offer plenty of experience and locker room leadership. Manning the goal is 33-year-old Stefan Frei who has been a reliable shot stopper since he joined the club in 2014. Forward Raul Ruidiaz is a 29-year-old Peruvian goal scorer who led Sounders in scores the last two seasons and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. In the midfield, Cristian Roldan has matured into a regular starter and has been previously called up to the U.S. Men’s National Team. 

Want to catch some of the action? The friendly isn’t being televised but fans can catch live updates and coverage on Twitter by following @SacRepublicFC.

At a Glance:  #ELPvSAC

• Saturday, November 2
• 6:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Southwest University Park, El Paso, Texas
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish), ESPN+

At a Glance:  #ELPvSAC

• Saturday, November 2
• 6:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Southwest University Park, El Paso, Texas
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish), ESPN+

What’s the latest on the team?

No. 7 seed Republic FC (14-14-6, 48 pts) heads into a Western Conference Semifinal clash this Saturday night at Southwest University Park against an El Paso Locomotive FC side that swept the regular season series over Sacramento. 

However, no team has ever beaten the Indomitable Club three times during the same campaign. 

In 2017, Republic FC were in a similar postseason situation against a Real Monarchs team that had triumphed over SRFC twice during the regular season (both 2-0 results). When the two sides collided in the playoffs, Sacramento had the last laugh and advanced on penalty kicks. 

Simon Elliott’s men are currently fresh off a 3-1 come-from-behind victory over No. 2 seed Reno 1868 FC last Saturday night. The upset road win over their regional rivals was the second time in the same week that the resilient boys in Old Glory Red battled back from an early goal down to march on in the 2019 USL Championship Playoffs. Last Wednesday night, SRFC advanced through the play-in round following a 2-1 win at Papa Murphy’s Park over New Mexico United where a stunning Thomas Enevoldsen volley in the 82nd minute ultimately proved to be the difference. 

Against Reno, the hosts jumped out to an early lead in the first minute through Devon Sandoval but winger Sam Werner answered back just three minutes later. Forward Cameron Iwasa found defender Juan Barahona down the left flank who fired a low cross that Werner slammed into the roof of the net. 

The Indomitable Club bagged the eventual game-winner in the 70th minute through the club captain. Winger Villyan Bijev spotted the club’s all-time leading goalscorer in space and delivered a perfectly weighted ball to the Sacramento native who calmly picked his spot and delivered the punishing blow. The goal was Iwasa’s 17th this season. 

Enevoldsen put the game out of reach just five minutes later when the Danish striker rifled a close range shot by the 1868 FC goalkeeper for his 10th goal with Sacramento since joining the club in August. Over the last 14 games, Iwasa and Enevoldsen have combined for 17 goals and seven assists and of those 14 matches, only four times has the dynamic duo not found the back of the net.  

What about the other guys?

No. 6 seed El Paso Locomotive FC (13-10-11, 50 pts) are fresh off their inaugural USL Championship campaign and solidified a postseason spot in their first-ever season, just like Republic FC did back in 2014. 

Saturday will be the first-ever home playoff game for the club from the Lone Star State. Over the weekend, Locomotive FC upset No. 3 seed Fresno FC, 3-2, after having to battle back from a goal down. Josue Gomez gifted El Paso a 1-0 lead before Fresno fired back with second half strikes from Christian Chaney and Alex Cooper. Former Republic FC defender James Kiffe leveled the match in the 77th minute before Sebastian Velasquez’s conversion from the penalty spot sealed Locomotive FC’s place in the Semifinals. 

Three goals for El Paso against Fresno was pretty rare, given the Texan team scored three goals or more in a match just five times all season. On the year, Locomotive FC netted the fifth-fewest goals in the Western Conference this season with 45. Forward Jerome Kiesewetter led the team in goals this season with 12. 

Defensively, El Paso is one of the best in the west. Locomotive FC allowed the second-fewest goals in the conference with 38 and kept the second-most clean sheets in the West with 13. 

Head-to-Head

The Indomitable Club is winless in the all-time series against El Paso. These two clubs have only clashed twice before, with Locomotive FC earning all three points from both matches. 

The first meeting between the two clubs was a 3-1 win for El Paso in Texas back in mid-May. Calvin Rezende put the hosts in front in the 10th minute before Drew Skundrich leveled the match in the 35th. Kiesewetter’s second half brace ultimately put the game out of reach. 

When the two teams met again in late-September, a driving rain storm caused a lengthy weather delay. Thomas Enevoldsen put SRFC out in front before Bryam Rebellon equalized in the 48th minute. But a Josue Gomez strike deep into extra time lifted Locomotive FC to victory. 

Former Republic FC defender James Kiffe is the current left back for El Paso Locomotive FC. Kiffe, who played with the Indomitable Club from 2014 to 2017, was a member of the Championship-winning side and is currently third all-time in club appearances (89) and starts (85). 

• Overall: 0-2-0  (GF: 2; GA: 5) 
• Home: 0-1-0 
• Away: 0-1-0

How to Watch & Follow

Saturday’s match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish) and ESPN+. Updates online will also be provided via Twitter at @SacRepublicFC or by following #ELPvSAC. To see more matchday information, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday-guide

What’s the latest on the team?

No. 7 seed Republic FC (14-14-6, 48 pts) heads into a Western Conference Semifinal clash this Saturday night at Southwest University Park against an El Paso Locomotive FC side that swept the regular season series over Sacramento. 

However, no team has ever beaten the Indomitable Club three times during the same campaign. 

In 2017, Republic FC were in a similar postseason situation against a Real Monarchs team that had triumphed over SRFC twice during the regular season (both 2-0 results). When the two sides collided in the playoffs, Sacramento had the last laugh and advanced on penalty kicks. 

Simon Elliott’s men are currently fresh off a 3-1 come-from-behind victory over No. 2 seed Reno 1868 FC last Saturday night. The upset road win over their regional rivals was the second time in the same week that the resilient boys in Old Glory Red battled back from an early goal down to march on in the 2019 USL Championship Playoffs. Last Wednesday night, SRFC advanced through the play-in round following a 2-1 win at Papa Murphy’s Park over New Mexico United where a stunning Thomas Enevoldsen volley in the 82nd minute ultimately proved to be the difference. 

Against Reno, the hosts jumped out to an early lead in the first minute through Devon Sandoval but winger Sam Werner answered back just three minutes later. Forward Cameron Iwasa found defender Juan Barahona down the left flank who fired a low cross that Werner slammed into the roof of the net. 

The Indomitable Club bagged the eventual game-winner in the 70th minute through the club captain. Winger Villyan Bijev spotted the club’s all-time leading goalscorer in space and delivered a perfectly weighted ball to the Sacramento native who calmly picked his spot and delivered the punishing blow. The goal was Iwasa’s 17th this season. 

Enevoldsen put the game out of reach just five minutes later when the Danish striker rifled a close range shot by the 1868 FC goalkeeper for his 10th goal with Sacramento since joining the club in August. Over the last 14 games, Iwasa and Enevoldsen have combined for 17 goals and seven assists and of those 14 matches, only four times has the dynamic duo not found the back of the net.  

What about the other guys?

No. 6 seed El Paso Locomotive FC (13-10-11, 50 pts) are fresh off their inaugural USL Championship campaign and solidified a postseason spot in their first-ever season, just like Republic FC did back in 2014. 

Saturday will be the first-ever home playoff game for the club from the Lone Star State. Over the weekend, Locomotive FC upset No. 3 seed Fresno FC, 3-2, after having to battle back from a goal down. Josue Gomez gifted El Paso a 1-0 lead before Fresno fired back with second half strikes from Christian Chaney and Alex Cooper. Former Republic FC defender James Kiffe leveled the match in the 77th minute before Sebastian Velasquez’s conversion from the penalty spot sealed Locomotive FC’s place in the Semifinals. 

Three goals for El Paso against Fresno was pretty rare, given the Texan team scored three goals or more in a match just five times all season. On the year, Locomotive FC netted the fifth-fewest goals in the Western Conference this season with 45. Forward Jerome Kiesewetter led the team in goals this season with 12. 

Defensively, El Paso is one of the best in the west. Locomotive FC allowed the second-fewest goals in the conference with 38 and kept the second-most clean sheets in the West with 13. 

Head-to-Head

The Indomitable Club is winless in the all-time series against El Paso. These two clubs have only clashed twice before, with Locomotive FC earning all three points from both matches. 

The first meeting between the two clubs was a 3-1 win for El Paso in Texas back in mid-May. Calvin Rezende put the hosts in front in the 10th minute before Drew Skundrich leveled the match in the 35th. Kiesewetter’s second half brace ultimately put the game out of reach. 

When the two teams met again in late-September, a driving rain storm caused a lengthy weather delay. Thomas Enevoldsen put SRFC out in front before Bryam Rebellon equalized in the 48th minute. But a Josue Gomez strike deep into extra time lifted Locomotive FC to victory. 

Former Republic FC defender James Kiffe is the current left back for El Paso Locomotive FC. Kiffe, who played with the Indomitable Club from 2014 to 2017, was a member of the Championship-winning side and is currently third all-time in club appearances (89) and starts (85). 

• Overall: 0-2-0  (GF: 2; GA: 5) 
• Home: 0-1-0 
• Away: 0-1-0

How to Watch & Follow

Saturday’s match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish) and ESPN+. Updates online will also be provided via Twitter at @SacRepublicFC or by following #ELPvSAC. To see more matchday information, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday-guide

At a Glance:  #RNOvSAC

• Saturday, October 26
• 5:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Greater Nevada Field, Reno, Nevada
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish), ESPN+

At a Glance:  #RNOvSAC

• Saturday, October 26
• 5:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Greater Nevada Field, Reno, Nevada
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish), ESPN+

What’s the latest on the team?

Republic FC (14-14-6, 48 pts) booked their trip to the 2019 USL Championship Western Conference Quarterfinals after Thomas Enevoldsen’s stunning volley sealed a 2-1 come-from-behind win against New Mexico United on Wednesday night at Papa Murphy’s Park in the opening round play-in game of the Championship Playoffs.

It took United all of 15 seconds to grab an early 1-0 lead through Devon Sandoval but the boys in Old Glory Red were able to answer just before the break by way of a Keven Aleman strike. Enevoldsen played a chip towards the back post that Drew Skundrich nodded back across the face of goal. The header fell to Aleman who buried his first goal of the season to level the match at 1-1. 

The game-winner was an absolute stunner and came in the 82nd minute when winger Sam Werner delivered a pinpoint, towering cross from inside the halfway line that was perfectly placed on Enevoldsen’s foot. The Danish striker’s first touch was flawless as he fired his volley into the back of the net to send seventh-seeded Republic FC into a Quarterfinal showdown against regional rivals Reno. The goal was Enevoldsen’s fourth in six games and ninth in 13 matches since joining SRFC. 

Republic FC defender Juan Barahona made his first start since returning to the club from international duty with the El Salvador Men’s National Team. The left back started matches for his country against Saint Lucia and Montserrat, both 2-0 victories. 

The Indomitable Club finished the regular season tied for the third-best defense in the Western Conference, having only allowed 43 goals in league play all season. Sacramento also had the third-most clean sheets in the West with a dozen, tying this group with the 2016 and 2018 SRFC sides that also collected 12 shutouts during their respective USL campaigns. In all competitions this season, Republic FC racked up 14 clean sheets which is indeed a new club record.

What’s the latest on the team?

Republic FC (14-14-6, 48 pts) booked their trip to the 2019 USL Championship Western Conference Quarterfinals after Thomas Enevoldsen’s stunning volley sealed a 2-1 come-from-behind win against New Mexico United on Wednesday night at Papa Murphy’s Park in the opening round play-in game of the Championship Playoffs.

It took United all of 15 seconds to grab an early 1-0 lead through Devon Sandoval but the boys in Old Glory Red were able to answer just before the break by way of a Keven Aleman strike. Enevoldsen played a chip towards the back post that Drew Skundrich nodded back across the face of goal. The header fell to Aleman who buried his first goal of the season to level the match at 1-1. 

The game-winner was an absolute stunner and came in the 82nd minute when winger Sam Werner delivered a pinpoint, towering cross from inside the halfway line that was perfectly placed on Enevoldsen’s foot. The Danish striker’s first touch was flawless as he fired his volley into the back of the net to send seventh-seeded Republic FC into a Quarterfinal showdown against regional rivals Reno. The goal was Enevoldsen’s fourth in six games and ninth in 13 matches since joining SRFC. 

Republic FC defender Juan Barahona made his first start since returning to the club from international duty with the El Salvador Men’s National Team. The left back started matches for his country against Saint Lucia and Montserrat, both 2-0 victories. 

The Indomitable Club finished the regular season tied for the third-best defense in the Western Conference, having only allowed 43 goals in league play all season. Sacramento also had the third-most clean sheets in the West with a dozen, tying this group with the 2016 and 2018 SRFC sides that also collected 12 shutouts during their respective USL campaigns. In all competitions this season, Republic FC racked up 14 clean sheets which is indeed a new club record.

What about the other guys?

Reno 1868 FC (18-10-6, 60 pts) are fresh off their best season in club history and secured the second seed in Western Conference Championship Playoffs. 1868 FC also enters the postseason on a red hot run of form, having won five of their last seven matches including three consecutive shutouts which means they have not allowed a goal in the entire month of October. 

Aside from Reno’s defensive dominance, the offense has been equally as difficult to handle. The Nevadan club scored the second-most goals in the West this season with 72, second only to Phoenix Rising FC. 1868 FC also took the second-most shots in the conference with 528. But one goal against Sacramento might not be enough, given the team is 0-5-2 when they bag just a single goal in a game this season. When up at halftime though, Reno is an impressive 11-1-1. 

Much of the goal-scoring production is provided by Corey Hertzog whose 18 goals is a team-best and tied for third-best in the entire USL. Hertzog’s six assists are third-best on the club, behind only Raul Mendiola (8) and Seth Casiple (7). Mendiola was actually a former teammate of Republic FC midfielder Jaime Villarreal when the two spent time together with LA Galaxy.  

This is the third time in the three seasons that Reno 1868 FC has made the postseason.

What about the other guys?

Reno 1868 FC (18-10-6, 60 pts) are fresh off their best season in club history and secured the second seed in Western Conference Championship Playoffs. 1868 FC also enters the postseason on a red hot run of form, having won five of their last seven matches including three consecutive shutouts which means they have not allowed a goal in the entire month of October. 

Aside from Reno’s defensive dominance, the offense has been equally as difficult to handle. The Nevadan club scored the second-most goals in the West this season with 72, second only to Phoenix Rising FC. 1868 FC also took the second-most shots in the conference with 528. But one goal against Sacramento might not be enough, given the team is 0-5-2 when they bag just a single goal in a game this season. When up at halftime though, Reno is an impressive 11-1-1. 

Much of the goal-scoring production is provided by Corey Hertzog whose 18 goals is a team-best and tied for third-best in the entire USL. Hertzog’s six assists are third-best on the club, behind only Raul Mendiola (8) and Seth Casiple (7). Mendiola was actually a former teammate of Republic FC midfielder Jaime Villarreal when the two spent time together with LA Galaxy.  

This is the third time in the three seasons that Reno 1868 FC has made the postseason.

Head-to-Head

The Indomitable Club hasn’t had tremendous success against their regional rivals and this year was no different. Reno swept the regular season series and outscored Sacramento 6-1, including a 2-0 result when SRFC last visited in late-June. But Saturday’s game is different, as it’s the first-ever playoff match between the two clubs. 

The boys in Old Glory Red did manage to knock out Reno in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup this season with a 1-0 win back in mid-May, and are 3-0 against the Nevadan club in knockout games. But when it comes to league play, historically, this derby has been very one-sided. The last time the Indomitable Club cruised into Reno and rolled out with a win was August of 2018. 

A familiar face Sacramento supporters will recognize is current Reno defender Emrah Klimenta. The former Republic FC defender was a member of the 2014 Championship-winning team and made over 100 appearances with the club.

• Overall: 1-5-1  (GF: 8; GA: 16) 
• Home: 0-3-0 
• Away: 1-2-1

How to Watch & Follow

Saturday’s match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish) and ESPN+. Updates online will also be provided via Twitter at @SacRepublicFC or by following #RNOvSAC. To see more matchday information, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday-guide

Road Trippin’?

Tickets for the match can be found by visiting TICKETS, and use the promo code AWAY to purchase in the Republic FC supporters section. There is also a bus for traveling fans, one roundtrip seat per purchase, departing Cal Expo shortly after 2:00 p.m. and tickets for a seat can be purchased by visiting Bus Tickets. The deadline to purchase bus tickets to the match is 5 p.m. Friday, October 25. A bus ticket does NOT include a match ticket, and vice versa.

Head-to-Head

The Indomitable Club hasn’t had tremendous success against their regional rivals and this year was no different. Reno swept the regular season series and outscored Sacramento 6-1, including a 2-0 result when SRFC last visited in late-June. But Saturday’s game is different, as it’s the first-ever playoff match between the two clubs. 

The boys in Old Glory Red did manage to knock out Reno in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup this season with a 1-0 win back in mid-May, and are 3-0 against the Nevadan club in knockout games. But when it comes to league play, historically, this derby has been very one-sided. The last time the Indomitable Club cruised into Reno and rolled out with a win was August of 2018. 

A familiar face Sacramento supporters will recognize is current Reno defender Emrah Klimenta. The former Republic FC defender was a member of the 2014 Championship-winning team and made over 100 appearances with the club.

• Overall: 1-5-1  (GF: 8; GA: 16) 
• Home: 0-3-0 
• Away: 1-2-1

How to Watch & Follow

Saturday’s match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento (Spanish) and ESPN+. Updates online will also be provided via Twitter at @SacRepublicFC or by following #RNOvSAC. To see more matchday information, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com/matchday-guide

Road Trippin’?

Tickets for the match can be found by visiting TICKETS, and use the promo code AWAY to purchase in the Republic FC supporters section. There is also a bus for traveling fans, one roundtrip seat per purchase, departing Cal Expo shortly after 2:00 p.m. and tickets for a seat can be purchased by visiting Bus Tickets. The deadline to purchase bus tickets to the match is 5 p.m. Friday, October 25. A bus ticket does NOT include a match ticket, and vice versa.