Match Recaps

A solid defensive showing from the entire squad earned Republic FC its third clean sheet of the 2025 season and closed out a five game homestand with a point. Saturday night’s scoreless draw was physical from the opening whistle. The two Western Conference clubs combined for 42 fouls, but the Indomitable Club hunkered down to hold San Antonio to just one shot on target all night.

Sacramento came out of the gates as the more aggressive team and continuously pinned down San Antonio’s backline in the first 15 minutes. San Antonio made 10 errors in the defensive third and was forced to make 12 clearances to keep Republic FC out of the box.

San Antonio’s best opportunity came on a corner counter. A speedy Luis Paredes streaked down the field toward goal, but Jared Timmer matched him step for step and cut off the angle. Paredes’ desperation shot pushed wide of the target.  

Republic FC closed out the half with a slew of chances. A miscommunication in the back line nearly set Cristian Parano for the opening goal against his former team. Lee Desmond sent the ball forward and it fell between San Antonio defender Mitch Taintor and goalkeeper Richard Sanchez, but neither play picked it up, allowing Parano to sneak behind to get a touch on the ball before it was deflected away by Sanchez. Minutes later, the ball ricocheted in the box before dropping to Nick Ross for a one-touch volley through traffic, but a diving Sanchez made the save. 

Neither team could keep the momentum through the second half with 24 fouls and restarts. Sacramento’s team defense was the highlight in the final 45 minutes. Danny Vitiello kept things even early on, coming off his line to punch away two dangerous crosses. The veteran goalkeeper wasn’t forced to make a save on the night, but had a strong showing with the ball at his feet and completed 17 of 18 passes.

With time ticking down and both teams pushing to find the late game-winner, Luis Felipe made two stellar stops in quick succession. First he flicked an initial ball out of the box, followed seconds later by a goal-line save on a low San Antonio shot. 

The shutout was the team’s third of the regular season and extends its home undefeated record against San Antonio to five matches. 

Republic FC will have a quick turnaround before heading on the road to face Birmingham Legion FC on Wednesday night. Kickoff from Protective Stadium is at 5:00 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast on Antenna TV 40.2, as well as streaming on the all-new FOX+ smart TV app and ESPN+.

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Sacramento Republic FC 0 – 0 San Antonio FC
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
June 14, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – none ; SA – none

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Sebastian Herrera (caution) 18’, Nick Ross (caution) 30’; SA – Lucio Berron (caution) 37’, Jimmy Medranda (88’)

Sacramento Republic FC: Danny Vitiello, Jared Timmer, Freddy Kleemann (Chibi Ukaegbu 73’), Lee Desmond (C), Jack Gurr, Ryan Spaulding (Blake Willey 68’), Michel Benitez, Nick Ross, Luis Felipe, Cristian Parano, Sebastian Herrera (Russell Cicerone 68’)

Unused substitutes: Jared Mazzola, Rayan Djedje, AJ Edwards, Dominik Wanner, Rodrigo Lopez, Trevor Amann

Stats: Shots: 7, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 0, Fouls: 22, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 3

San Antonio FC: Richard Sanchez, Nelson Flores Blanco, Mitchell Taintor (C), Alex Crognale, Rece Buckmaster, Lucio Berron, Luke Haakenson (Dmitrii Erofeev 88’), Almir Soto, Jorge Hernandez, Nicky Hernandez (Jimmy Medranda 77’), Andres Paredes

Unused Substitutes: Alexis Souahy, Daniel Namani, Juan Agudelo, Juan Osorio, Dyllan Mendoza

Stats: Shots: 12, Shots on Goal: 1, Saves: 3, Fouls: 20, Corner Kicks: 3, Offsides: 3

Republic FC’s home undefeated streak comes to a close with a 1-0 against Tulsa FC on Saturday night. The first half was filled with chances from both sides, but only Tulsa was able to capitalize and put a tally on the board. In a match with few shots, the whistles were plenty – seven bookings, including two ejections defined the night. 

Both clubs showed an aggressive attitude from the opening whistle. In the 10th minute, the visitors put the game’s lone goal in the book. A quick switch in possession found the visitors on a fast break to go up in the initial moments of the match.

Goalkeeper Danny Vitiello’s save in the 36th minute kept Republic FC within reach of equalizing the match. His snap save against a misplayed cross denied a potential own goal.  Despite holding the majority of possession and creating multiple potential opportunities throughout the second half, Republic FC failed to find the back of the net to save points. This tough loss breaks the stretch of eight games undefeated at Heart Health Park.

After the halftime break, Republic FC picked up the intensity and worked to push Tulsa deep into its defensive third. Republic FC’s Jack Gurr and Ryan Spaulding pushed the attack forward, but Tulsa stuck with its game plan and grinded it to a halt. Neill Collins turned to his bench – Luis Felipe, Justin Portillo, Trevor Amann, Rodrigo Lopez, and AJ Edwards – for some energy and push into the final minutes. 

Tulsa’s plan backfired when Owen Damm picked up a careless yellow – his second of the night – leading to an ejection. Tulsa’s bench would lose its discipline and also earn a booking resulting in an ejection during the stoppage. Through the last ten minutes of play, Republic FC would create chances, including a late shot that pushed just past the near post. Republic FC will close out its five-game homestand next Saturday against San Antonio FC. Kickoff from Heart Heath Park is at 8:00 p.m. and tickets are available now at SacRepublicFC.com. Prior to kickoff, the club is hosting its third annual Brewfest featuring over 20 local breweries, live music, and more. For more information about Brewfest visit SacRepublicFC.com/Brewfest.

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Sacramento Republic FC 0 – 1 FC Tulsa
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
June 7, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – None; TUL – Kalil ElMedkhar (Jamie Webber) 10’

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Sebastián Herrera (caution) 39’, Michel Benítez (caution) 58’, Nick Ross (caution) 60’; TUL – Delentz Pierre (caution) 14’, Marcos Cerato (caution) 33’, Owen Damm (caution) 61’, (second caution, red card) 87’, bench (red card) 88’

Sacramento Republic FC: Danny Vitiello, Lee Desmond (C), Freddy Kleemann (Luis Felipe 66’), Jared Timmer, Jack Gurr, Michel Benítez, Nick Ross (Justin Portillo 84’), Ryan Spaulding (AJ Edwards 84’), Russell Cicerone (Trevor Amann 66’), Sebastián Herrera (Rodrigo López 45’), Cristian Parano

Unused substitutes: Da’vian Kimbrough, Rayan Djédjé, Chibuike Ukaegbu, Jared Mazzola

Stats: Shots: 6, Shots on Goal: 1, Saves: 2, Fouls: 18, Corner Kicks: 8, Offsides: 1

FC Tulsa: Johan Peñaranda, Delentz Pierre (Harvey St. Clair 73’), Abdoulaye Cissoko (C), Arthur Rogers, Owen Damm, Boubacar Diallo, Marcos Cerato, Lucas Stauffer, Jamie Webber (Giordano Colli 67’), Kalil ElMedkhar (Eliot Goldthorp 67’), Alexander Dalou (Stefan Lukic 73’)

Unused Substitutes: Andrew Booth, Al Hassan Touré, Cole Johnson

Stats: Shots: 6, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 1, Fouls: 21, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 3

Republic FC surged to the top of the USL Jägermeister Cup Group 1 table with 4-0 victory over Las Vegas Lights FC on Saturday night. The Indomitable Club claimed another three points in group play with goals from four different players and Goalkeeper Jared Mazzola stopping five shots for his second USL Cup clean sheet.

The clubs traded chances throughout the early minutes of the match. A good run of possession created Sacramento’s first chance in the 10th minute. Cristian Parano started the play with a through ball to Lewis Jamieson that set up a one-two with Jack Gurr on the right flank. Nick Ross joined the play and laid the ball off for a Michel Benitez first-touch pass to Parano on top of the box. 

Jared Mazzola made a crucial save to keep things level in the 30th minute. As the Lights broke out of Republic’s pressure, Nighte Pickering dribbled into a dangerous spot in the 18-yard box. Mazzola quickly came out to make the stop before clearing it away from trouble. 

The Indomitable Club found its breakthrough moment with a pair of goals in two minutes. A set-piece put the Quails on the board. Lewis Jamieson sent an in-swinger from the corner with Ryan Spaulding on the back post. Spaulding control kept the ball at his feet for a quick snap shot into the back of the net – his first for Sacramento. Moments later, Nick Ross intercepted a Vegas clearance and Cristian Parano made them pay, shaking off his defender to create enough space for a left-footed shot from 15 yards. 

Jared Mazzola continued to build on his stellar performance on the other side of the break.  Vaughn Covil’s breakaway in the 50th minute created an opportunity, but once again Mazzola closed down the angles to make the save. He finished the night with five saves to claim Sacramento’s second clean sheet of the tournament. 

With the Lights’ early push out of the way, Republic FC once again took control of the match and put the game out of reach with another set of rapid-fire goals. The first came in the 53rd minute when Russell Cicerone assisted Michel Benitez’s first goal for Sacramento. Five minutes later, it was Cicerone who found the back of the net, assisted by Jack Gurr. 

The Quails now hold the top spot in the Group 1 standings with six points and a +5 goal differential. They will return to USL Cup action on June 28, when they head south to face off with Orange County SC. 

Next Saturday, the club’s regular season continues when FC Tulsa comes to the Indomitable City on Pride Night. Kickoff is at 8:00 p.m. and tickets are available now at SacRepublicFC.com/Tickets. 

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Sacramento Republic FC 4 – 0 Las Vegas Lights FC 
USL Jägermeister Cup
Group Stage (Group 1)
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
May 31, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Ryan Spaulding (Lewis Jamieson) 36’, Cristian Parano (Nick Ross) 38’, Michel Benitez (Russell Cicerone) 53’, Russell Cicerone (Jack Gurr) 58’ ; LV – none

Misconduct Summary: SAC – none; LV – Turner Humphrey (caution) 22’, Christopher Pearson (caution) 25’

Sacramento Republic FC: Jared Mazzola, Lee Desmond (C), Freddy Kleemann, Jared Timmer, Ryan Spaulding (Rodrigo Lopez 64’), Jack Gurr (AJ Edwards 75’), Michel Benitez, Nick Ross, Cristian Parano (Da’vian Kimbrough 75’), Russell Cicerone (Dominik Wanner 64’), Lewis Jamieson (Sebastian Herrera 56’)

Unused substitutes: Danny Vitiello, Chibi Ukaegbu, Luis Felipe, Trevor Amann

Stats: Shots: 12, Shots on Goal: 6, Saves: 5, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 1

Las Vegas Lights FC: Nicholas Ammeter, Nathaniel Jones (Maliek Howell 66’), Christopher Pearson, Joe Gyau (C) (Christian Pinzon 55’), Nighte Pickering (Johnny Rodriguez 55’), Turner Humphrey (Elias Gartig 66’), Jack Singer, Shaft Brewer, Gennaro Nigro, Vaughn Covil, Daouda Peters (Valentin Noel 55’)

Unused Substitutes: Patrick Leal, Raiko ArozarenaStats: Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 2, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 1

by Jadin da Cunha

Republic FC’s home undefeated streak grew to seven with a dominating performance in a 5-0 win over Las Vegas Lights FC on Saturday night. Goals from five different goalscorers would provide all the entertainment a fan would want on a Saturday night. The Quails came to life against one of the league’s leading defensive units – Las Vegas hold the most clean sheets in league play. But Republic FC’s defensive core put forth a strong performance and earned its second league clean sheet of the season. 

With the opponents fighting to get out of the half, another goal from Republic FC started to slam the door shut. The Quails would capitalize on a loose ball from the visitors. Herrera would reward Lewis Jamieson’s hard run with an inch perfect pass in stride. The Scottish attacker kept his composure and slotted the ball by the Las Vegas goalkeeper in the 44th minute. 

The second half picked up right where the first ended. In the 67th minute, Sebastian Herrera’s rampage would continue. A cutting Cristian Parano found Herrera for a one-on-one against Vegas’ goalkeeper. With a wide open net, Herrera was pulled down in the box and earned a penalty. Midfielder Nick Ross would step to the spot and net the club’s fourth goal on the night. Trevor Amann capped off the evening with an 86th minute score. A wide swinging ball from Rodrigo López found Amann to close out the match. 

Republic FC returns to action in 14 days in USL Jägermeister Cup play on May 31. Las Vegas Lights FC return to the Capitol City with two more matches under their belt before kickoff. Tickets for the 7:00 p.m. match are available now at SacRepublicFC.com and the night will feature a $5 craft beer special from gates until the 30th minute. 

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Sacramento Republic FC 5 – 0 Las Vegas Lights FC 
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
May 17, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Sebastián Herrera (Jared Timmer) 30’, Jack Gurr (Michelle Benítez) 37’, Lewis Jamieson (Sebastián Herrera) 44’, Nick Ross (penalty) 67’, Trevor Amann (Rodrigo López) 86’; LV – none

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Blake Willey (caution) 10’, Nick Ross (caution) 29’, ; LV – Raiko Arozarena (caution) 65’, Edison Azcona (caution) 80’

Sacramento Republic FC: Danny Vitiello, Lee Desmond (C), Freddy Kleemann, Jared Timmer, Michelle Benítez, Nick Ross (Rodrigo López 71’), Blake Willey (Luis Felipe 45’), Jack Gurr, Lewis Jamieson, Sebastián Herrera (Trevor Amann 71’), Cristian Parano (Da’vian Kimbrough 84’)

Unused substitutes: Ryan Spaulding, Dominik Wanner, Rayan Djédjé, AJ Edwards,, Jared Mazzola

Stats: Shots: 9, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 4, Fouls: 11, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 3

Las Vegas Lights FC: Raiko Arozarena (Nicholas Ammeter 74’), Maliek Howell, Elais Gärtig, Jack Singer (Nate Jones 45’), Gennaro Nigro, Patrick Leal (Christopher Pearson 63’), Valentin Noël (C), Shaft Brewer (Joe Gyau 45’), Nighte Pickering (Younes Boudadi 84’), Jonathan Rodriguez, Edison Azcona

Unused Substitutes: Vaughn Covil, Daouda Peeters

Stats: Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 0, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 4

Republic FC’s home undefeated streak continues with an extra time penalty in a 1-1  draw against Indy Eleven on Saturday night. The Quails would concede in the first half, but a relentless press was paid off in extra time. Lee Desmond’s aerial challenge in the box gave Sacramento a shot to keep a point. Trevor Amann converted from the spot with the last kick of the game – his second score in stoppage time in as many games. The Saturday night draw extends Sacramento’s undefeated record when playing at home at Heart Health Park to six matches. 

Sacramento controlled the first half and drove the tempo through possession. A careless challenge outside of the 18-yard-box provided the first sparks of the night. Republic Captain Rodrigo López stepped up with a classic bending strike around the wall that almost snuck inside the right post. 

With Indy dropping its entire lineup into the defense, the visitors netted the first goal on a snap counter attack. In the 36th minute, Elvis Amoh would find the net and give Indy the lead. 

Sebastian Herrera caused havoc for the defense all night. In the 40th minute, the striker would draw another foul and give Republic another set piece opportunity. Jack Gurr who would take a crack at finding a tying goal, but would be pushed wide by the Indy Eleven goalkeeper.

Indy elected to park the bus and withstand the full force of Sacramento’s attack. In the second half, the Quails pushed Indy back into its own third with 70% of the possession. As the visitors tried to hold on for the win, Sacramento continued to throw numbers forward to challenge Indy’s backline and the pressure paid off in the final moments of the match. After Lee Desmond was brought down in the box, Trevor Amann stepped up to the spot to secure the point, marking his second straight game with a goal in second-half stoppage time. 

The Indomitable Club will continue its five-game home stand next Saturday as Las Vegas Lights come to town. Kickoff from Heart Health Park is at 7:00 p.m. and tickets are available now at SacRepublicFC.com and the first 1,500 fans in attendance will receive a scarf giveaway in honor of Native American Heritage Night.

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Sacramento Republic FC 1 – 1 Indy Eleven
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
May 10, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Trevor Amann (penalty) 90+6’; IND – Elvis Amoh (Aodhan Quinn) 36’

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Jared Timmer (caution) 17’, Cristian Parano (caution) 33’ ; IND  – Josh O’Brien (caution) 20’, James Musa (caution) 58’

Sacramento Republic FC: Danny Vitiello, Lee Desmond, Freddy Kleemann (Ryan Spaulding 77’), Jared Timmer, Michelle Benítez, Luis Felipe (Nick Ross 45’), Rodrigo López (C) (Blake Willey 77’), Dominik Wanner, Jack Gurr, Sebastián Herrera (Trevor Amann 84’), Cristian Parano (Lewis Jamieson 67’)

Unused substitutes: Rayan Djédjé, AJ Edwards, Chibuike Ukaegbu, Jared Mazzola

Stats: Shots: 12, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 2, Fouls: 11, Corner Kicks: 8, Offsides: 4

Indy Eleven: Hunter Sulte, Josh O’Brien, Pat Hogan, Aedan Stanley, Ben Ofeimu, James Musa, James Murphy, Jack Blake, Aodhan Quinn (C) (Finn McRobb 86’), Elvis Amoh (Romario Williams 70’), Maalique Foster (Edward Kizza 70’)

Unused Substitutes: Cam Lindley, Logan Neidlinger, Elliot Collier, Reice Charles-CookStats: Shots: 7, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 2, Fouls: 14, Corner Kicks: 1, Offsides: 2

Republic FC’s 2025 Open Cup journey came to an end as the team fell to San Jose Earthquakes by a score of 2-1 on the road on Wednesday night. Two first-half goals would be too much for the Indomitable Club to come back from, but the match ended on a high note as Rodrigo Lopez extended his lead as the tournament’s all-time assist leader, notching his 13th on Trevor Amann’s goal just before the final whistle. 

San Jose would jump out to an early lead when the Quakes moved the ball up the right flank for a Preston Judd cross to Ahmal Pellegrino, who slotted the ball past Republic FC goalkeeper Jared Mazzola. 

Republic FC would work its way into the game throughout the rest of the half. Persistent defense would give them a chance in the 35th minute. Dominik Wanner would win a tackle and lay the ball off for a one-two with Lewis Jamieson. Wanner carried the ball into the box but the defender would close down enough to prevent him from getting a dangerous shot off. 

The Earthquakes would double the lead just before the break when a cross was volleyed in the air by Niko Tsakiris and finished off by Preston Judd. 

Second-half substitute Cristian Parano would inject some energy into the attack as he dribbled through multiple defenders and laid the ball off for Luis Felipe, who returned it with a cheeky back heel for a Parano shot from the top of the box, but the keeper would collect.

Sacramento’s highlight moment came just before the final whistle as Rodrigo Lopez sent the ball forward for Trevor Amann, who found the back of the net for the first time this year. The goal marked Lopez’s 13th Open Cup assist, extending his lead as the tournament’s all-time leader in the modern era. 

Republic FC will return home to play its third game in eight days this Saturday, when Eastern Conference club Indy Eleven comes to town. Kickoff from Heart Health Park is set for 7:00 p.m. and tickets are available now at SacRepublicFC.com/Tickets. The match will also be broadcast live on FOX40 and CBS Sports Golazo Network. 

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Sacramento Republic FC 1-2 San Jose Earthquakes
U.S. Open Cup Round of 32
Pay Pal Park, San Jose, California
May 7, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Trevor Amann (Rodrigo Lopez) 90+6’; SJ – Ahman Pellegrino (Preston Judd) 2’, Preston Judd (Niko Tsakiris) 44’

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Justin Portillo (caution) 17, Dominik Wanner (caution) 26’, AJ Edwards (caution) 77’; SJ  – Niko Tsakiris (caution) 36’, Noel Book (caution) 76’, Jamar Ricketts (ejection) 84’

Sacramento Republic FC: Jared Mazzola, Rayan Djedje, Jared Timmer (C), Michel Benitez, AJ Edwards, Ryan Spaulding (Freddy Kleemann 64’), Justin Portillo (Rodrigo Lopez 73’), Nick Ross (Luis Felipe 45’), Blake Willey, Dominik Wanner (Cristian Parano 64’), Lewis Jamieson (Trevor Amann 84’)

Unused substitutes: Danny Vitiello, Jack Gurr

Stats: Shots: 5, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 2, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 3, Offsides: 5

San Jose Earthquakes: Earl Edwards Jr., Jamar Ricketts, Reid Roberts, Rodrigues (Max Floriani 66’), Nick Lima, Noel Buck, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Amahl Pellegrino (C), Niko Tsakiris (Benji Kikanovic 78’), Paul Marie (Hernan Lopez 66’), Preston Judd (Jack Skahan 86’)

Unused Substitutes: Ian Harkes, Ousseni Bouda, Francesco Montali

Stats: Shots: 17, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 1, Fouls: 11, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 1

In a Norcal rivalry match, Republic FC earned its first road win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Oakland Roots on Sunday afternoon. After playing to a scoreless first half, the Indomitable Club came out of the break with a high press that resulted in an Oakland penalty, converted by Russell Cicerone. A strong defensive showing gave Sacramento its first regular season clean sheet.

Danny Vitiello would stand strong to deny Oakland their first opportunity in the 8th minute. A pass skipped behind Sacramento’s backline for Peter Wilson inside the box, but Vitiello closed down the space to deflect the initial shot before collecting the second attempt. The 2023 Goalkeeper of the Year would finish the match with three saves.

Republic FC would respond with chance of its own minutes later, when Jack Gurr’s long ball found Russell Cicerone in stride. Cicerone beat the defender to get a shot off from the top of the box, Roots goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh would swat the ball away for his first save of the afternoon. 

Sacramento came out strong to start the second half and instantly put the Roots under pressure. It quickly paid off as Jack Gurr was brought down in the box by Baboucarr Njie and the Indomitable Club was awarded a penalty. For the second time this year, Russell Cicerone stepped up to the spot to find the back of the net. 

After taking the lead, Republic FC clamped down defensively to hold Oakland without a shot on target for the remainder of the match and earn its first clean sheet of the regular season. 

On Wednesday, the Indomitable Club will return to the Bay Area to take on MLS side San Jose Earthquakes in the U.S. Open Cup Round of 32. It will be the sixth all-time meeting between the Northern California teams, with Sacramento pulling the upset in the last two head-to-heads. Kick off from Pay Pal Park is at 7:30 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast on CBS Sports Golazo Network.

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Sacramento Republic FC 1 – 0 Oakland Roots SC
USL Championship
Oakland Coliseum, Oakland, California
May 4, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Russell Cicerone (penalty) 48 ’ ; OAK – none

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Lee Desmond (caution) 24’, Michel Benitez (caution) 74’, Luis Felipe (caution) 84’; OAK  – Kai Greene (caution) 22’, Baboucarr Njie (caution) 47’

Sacramento Republic FC: Danny Vitiello, Lee Desmond, Freddy Kleemann, Jared Timmer, Michel Benitez, Jack Gurr, Luis Felipe, Rodrigo Lopez (C) (Nick Ross 82’), Cristian Parano (Dominik Wanner 82’), Russell Cicerone (Blake Willey 72’), Sebastian Herrera

Unused substitutes: Jared Mazzola, Rayan Djedje, Ryan Spaulding, AJ Edwards, Da’vian Kimbrough, Lewis Jamieson

Stats: Shots: 7, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 3, Fouls: 19, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 2

Oakland Roots SC: Kendal McIntosh, Kai Greene, Neveal Hackshaw, Julian Bravo, Baboucarr Njie (Justin Rasmussen 70’), Jose Sinisterra (EJ Johnson 70’), Bobosi Byaruhanga, Tyler Gibson (Daniel Gomez 86’), Camden Riley (Panos Armenakas 53’), Peter Wilson, Wolfgang Prentice (Luis Saldana 86’)

Unused Substitutes: Gagi Margvelashvili, Abdi Mohamed, Raphael Spiegel, Ali Elmasnaouy 

Stats: Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 1, Fouls: 22, Corner Kicks: 3, Offsides: 1

Tournament season continues for Republic FC with a new chance at silverware. The Indomitable Club earned three points in its cup debut with a 1-0 win over USL League One debutant AV Alta. The result locked up three points in the Group A table with three matches to go before the knockout rounds. 

Republic FC got the first chance of the match after Russell Cicerone applied pressure to create a quick buildup. Dominik Wanner’s arcing cross found Michel Benitez on the back post for an off-target volley. Wanner would continue to create on the right side when he found Cicerone for a header inside the box, only to be denied by AV Alta’s goalkeeper. 

In the final moments of the first half, Republic FC’s hard work would pay off. The last 15 minutes of dominated play was capped off by a header from Sebastian Herrera to give the club a 1-0 lead. Jared Timmer’s precision cross earned the centerback his fourth career assist with Republic FC. The goal marked Herrera’s 99th career goal and his fourth score in four consecutive games. 

Shortly after the start of the second half, the visitors created their first opportunity of the game when striker Emmanual Alaribe found the ball at his feet at the top of the 18-yard box. Alaribe found enough space to get a shot off, but goalkeeper Jared Mazzola in his second start this season kept the Quails ahead with a diving save. 

In the 73rd minute, Defender Freddy Kleemann looked to put the game away. Dominik Wanner’s set piece restart floated to the back post. Jared Timmer drove the ball back across the face of goal where Kleemann took his chance. The first year Republic defender headed the ball on target past AV Alta’s keeper, but was denied by the woodwork.

Next week, Republic FC returns to league play. The Indomitable Club heads to the Oakland Coliseum for nationally televised derby. Kickoff against the Oakland Roots is set for 4:00 p.m. and fans can tune in on CBS Sport Network. The Quails will have a quick turnaround when they return to the Bay Area for a Open Cup Round of 32 match up against San Jose Earthquakes on May 7th. 

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Sacramento Republic FC 1 – 0 AV Alta FC
USL Jägermeister Cup
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
April 26, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Sebastian Herrera (Jared Timmer) 45’+1’ ; AV – none

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Cristian Parano (caution) 60’, Michel Benitez (caution) 76’; AV  – Osvaldo Lay (caution) 59’, Adam Aoumaich (caution) 74’

Sacramento Republic FC: Jared Mazzola, Lee Desmond (Ryan Spaulding 45’), Jared Timmer (AJ Edwards 84’), Freddy Kleemann, Dominik Wanner (Lewis Jamieson 84’), Michel Benitez, Blake Willey, Rodrigo Lopez (C) (Luis Felipe 65’), Russell Cicerone, Cristian Parano, Sebastian Herrera (Trevor Amann 71’)

Unused substitutes: Danny Vitiello, Justin Portillo, Da’vian Kimbrough, Jackson Martin

Stats: Shots: 16, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 2, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 1

AV Alta FC: Carlos Avilez, Luca Mastrontonio, Miguel Pajaro (C), Kaloyan Pehlivanov, Walmer Martinez, Osvaldo Lay (Adam Aoumaich 64’), Sebastian Cruz, Harrison Robledo (Maboumou Alassane 64’), Emmanuel Alaribe, Eduardo Blancas (Javier Mariona 80’), Jerry Desdunes

Unused Substitutes: Ashkanov Apollon, Erick Gonzalez, Jimmie Villalobos, Denzil Smith

Stats: Shots: 7, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 2, Fouls: 17, Corner Kicks: 3, Offsides: 2

Republic FC closed out its stretch of three games eight days with another result and earned a point in a hard-fought 2-2 draw on the road against Phoenix Rising FC on Saturday afternoon. Sacramento came out strong to take a two-goal lead courtesy of Sebastian Herrera and Dominik Wanner, but Phoenix would chip away at the lead and equalize in the second half to split the points. 

The Indomitable Club would control the match early and the pressure paid dividends with a fantastic team goal in the 18th minute. Jack Gurr switched the field with a long ball for Dominik Wanner, who made a one-touch layoff for Cicerone. Cicerone sent in a cross for Sebastian Herrera to tap past the keeper. Herrera has now scored in the last three matches, including Wednesday’s Open Cup match. 

Dominik Wanner would find the back of the net for the first time for Sacramento in the 34th minute. Republic FC worked together to move the ball forward, connecting a sequence of 14 unbroken passes to get it out to Jack Gurr on the right flank. The Englishman sent a cross the face of goal where Wanner to blast it on frame for Sacramento’s second goal of the afternoon and Gurr’s first assist of the year.

Phoenix pulled one back in the 37th minute when Remi Cabral split the defense with a pass to Jearl Margaritha. Once he was in the box, Margaritha pulled the ball across to create enough space for a left-footed shot to the back post. 

Cristian Parano attempted to put Republic FC back up two in the second half.With a few shifty dribbles in the 57th minute, the Argentinians set up to challenge Patrick Rakovsky, but the keeper would punch the ball over the crossbar. On the ensuing corner kick, Phoenix’s clearance nearly snuck through for a Remi Cabral breakaway, but last man Michel Benitez made a stellar interception to end the play. 

As both teams settled into the second half,  Phoenix would find the equalizer in the 78th minute when Remi Cabral assisted Damian Rivera for a right-footed shot from the top of the box. 

Next Saturday, Republic FC returns home for its first-ever USL Jägermeister Cup match. The club will host USL League One debutant AV Alta FC at Heart Health Park with kickoff set for 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available now at SacRepublicFC.com/Tickets and include a $5 craft beer special through the 30th minute. The match will also be broadcast on FOX40, as well as streaming on ESPN+.

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Sacramento Republic FC 2 – 2 Phoenix Rising FC
USL Championship
Phoenix Rising Stadium, Phoenix, Arizona
April 19, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Sebastian Herrera (Russell Cicerone) 18’, Dominik Wanner (Jack Gurr) 34’; PHX – Jearl Margaritha (Remi Cabral) 37’, Damien Rivera (Remi Cabral) 78’

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Freddy Kleemann (caution) 5’, Sebastian Herrera (caution) 42’, Dominik Wanner (caution) 58’, Rayan Djedje (caution) 72’, Rodrigo Lopez (caution) 77’; PHX – Ihsan Sacko (caution) 36’, Remi Cabral (caution) 85’

Sacramento Republic FC: Danny Vitiello (C), Michel Benitez, Freddy Kleemann, Jared Timmer, Chibi Ukaegbu (Ryan Djedje 64’), Dominik Wanner (Ryan Spaulding 64’), Jack Gurr (AJ Edwards 45’), Blake Willey, Cristian Parano (Rodrigo Lopez, 74’), Russell Cicerone, Sebastian Herrera (Lewis Jamieson 74’)

Unused substitutes: Jared Mazzola, Luis Felipe, Trevor Amann

Stats: Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 2, Fouls: 19, Corner Kicks: 1, Offsides: 2 

Phoenix Rising FC: Patrick Rakovsky, John Scearce, Braxton Montgomery, Pape Boye (C), Harvey Neville (Collin Smith 45’), Casey Walls (Carl Sainte 74’), Noble Okello (Jamison Ping 69’), Jearl Margaritha, Hope Avayevu (Darius Johnson 84’), Ihsan Sacko (Damian Rivera 45’), Remi Cabral

Unused Substitutes: Triston Henry, Alejandro Araneda, Dariusz Formella, Cyrus Kowall

Stats: Shots: 7, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 2, Fouls: 24, Corner Kicks: 3, Offsides: 4

In Republic FC’s opening match of the 2025 U.S. Open Cup, the Indomitable Club secured its spot in the Round of 32 draw with a 1-0 win over El Farolito 1-0 on Wednesday night. The victory marked Sacramento’s 24th tournament win in front of the home crowd – the highest mark by any club since 2014 – and its 10th consecutive opening match win. In his first start of the year, captain Rodrigo Lopez notched his 12th Open Cup assist. Forward Sebastian Herrera netted his fifth tournament goal in the last three years. 

Republic FC came out of the gate strong and controlled over 60% of the possession in the first 15 minutes. They would see their first chance in the 27th minute, Rodrigo Lopez jumped on a giveaway from El Farolito’s defense and drove the ball down the middle to put a strong shot on target, but the goalkeeper was able to make the save. Moments later, Lopez would record his 12th Open Cup assist, sending in a cross for Sebastian Herrera to head on frame. Herrera has now scored five goals in the tournament. 

Making his first appearance of the year, goalkeeper Jared Mazzola would make a fantastic save in the 37th minute. As an El Farolito cross skipped through the box, Mazzola would make an acrobatic save to push the ball away from danger. The 26-year-old finished the night with three saves to earn Sacramento’s first clean sheet of the year. 

The Indomitable Club won’t have to wait long to learn its opponent for the Round of 32. Tomorrow morning at 6:15 a.m., U.S. Soccer will host a live draw on CBS Sports Golazo Network to determine matchups and hosts for the next two rounds of the tournament.

Republic FC will wrap up its stretch of three games in eight days on Saturday, when the team heads back on the road to take on Phoenix Rising FC. Kickoff from Phoenix Rising Stadium is at 1:00 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast live on Antenna TV 40.2, as well as streaming on FOX40.com and ESPN+. 

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Sacramento Republic FC 1 – 0 El Farolito
U.S. Open Cup – Third Round
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
April 16, 2025

Scoring Summary: SAC – Sebastian Herrera (Rodrigo Lopez) 29’ ; FAR – none

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Rayan Djedje (caution) 24’, Blake Willey (caution) 45’, Michel Benitez (caution) 52’, Rodrigo Lopez (caution) 58’, AJ Edwards (caution) 61’, Jared Mazzola (caution) 84’, Russell Cicerone (caution) 85’, Dominik Wanner (caution) 88’, Justin Portillo (caution) 90’, Justin Portillo (caution) 90+8’; FAR – Jhonatan Perez (caution) 40’, Omar Quirogaa (caution) 43’, Jorgre Murillo (caution) 56’, Jesus Martinez (caution) 90’

Sacramento Republic FC: Jared Mazzola, Ryan Djedje (Jared Timmer 45’), Freddy Kleemann, Chibi Ukaegbu, Ryan Spaulding (Luis Felipe 67’), AJ Edwards, Justin Portillo, Blake Willey (Michel Benitez 45’), Rodrigo Lopez (Dominik Wanner 67’), Lewis Jamieson, Sebastian Herrera (Russell Cicerone 45’)

Unused substitutes: Danny Vitiello, Trevor Amann

Stats: Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 3, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 4 

El Farolito: Johan Lizarralde, Jesus Martinez, Edgard Kreye (Brayan Gomez 74’), Andres Zuluaga, Omar Quiroga (Ramon Cordoba 64’), Jehimy Arias (Jorge Murillo 45’), Gabriel Arias, Herbert Soto, Kipre Sacre (Erik Arias 58’), Jhonatan Perez (Hadier Borja 74’), Dembor Benson (C)

Unused Substitutes: Kevin Gonzalez, Daouda Sidibe

Stats: Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 3, Fouls: 19, Corner Kicks: 5, Offsides: 2