For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com

Dave Petchy
Views: 47
0 0
Read Time:6 Minute, 37 Second

[ad_1]

For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – www.espn.com – SOCCER

, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com

For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com

Nearly calling it quits and hanging up his boots nine years ago, Sacramento Republic captain Rodrigo Lopez is now one win away from an improbable achievement in American soccer.

As part of the second-division USL Championship, the Republic aim to win the U.S. Open Cup — the country’s oldest soccer tournament — when they clash with Major League Soccer’s Orlando City SC on Wednesday (stream on ESPN+, 8 p.m. ET).

“I still sometimes can’t believe it,” Lopez told ESPN. “Not that I’m saying we don’t deserve it. We definitely deserve it.

“I’m just saying, for a USL Championship team or any lower division team to be in the final of a cup, that is definitely very rare.”

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, MLS, more (U.S.)

The knockout competition dates back over 100 years when organized versions of the sport were still developing. The game is now much more sophisticated in the modern era and with the introduction of MLS in 1996, it has become rare to see teams from outside of the top division in the final.

Your Most Trusted Casinos for 2023!

goldman casino online
GoldmanCasino.com, Est: 2015 - Known only for being Fair, Trustworthy, Fast Paying and its selection of over 2750 remarkable best in class casino, slots, live casino and instant with games.
Trusted Casinos Online
We List Only the Most  Trusted Casinos Online - All Casinos Have Real Money & Demo Free Play Mode Available.
100% Verified RNG, Player Funds Ring-Fenced
100% Verified RNG, Player Funds Ring-Fenced
Get ready for a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow with Rainbow Riches Megaways, the exciting new slot game that puts a twist on the classic Irish luck theme. With an incredible 117,649 ways to win, this game offers endless possibilities for big payouts and non-stop action. Spin the reels and keep an eye out for the leprechaun, who just might lead you to a fortune. With cascading reels, free spins, and an unlimited win multiplier, Rainbow Riches Megaways will keep you on the edge of your seat as you chase after that elusive rainbow. So put on your lucky charm and get ready to hit the jackpot in this magical and exciting adventure. PLAY WITH €£$100 Welcome Bonus NOW!

Dream Catcher is the Latest Live Casino Craze!
Play Dream Catcher and Win Up to 40x Stake at Goldman Live Casino!
Play in over 172 Countries with Multiple Currencies - and BitCoin Too! Spin the mystery wheel NOW!

Dream Catcher is Live at Goldman Casino and Offers the Opportunity for some stunning wins up to 40x with Truly Live Presentation! Not Only That, deposit TODAY as a new player and get 100% up to £100 Extra Free to Play + 20 Free Spins on Book of Dead Hit Slot* LIMITED TIME OFFER!!!


*18+ Only New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

              secure-casino

100% Satisfaction Guarantee
100% Satisfaction Guarantee

playWild West Slots at The Fastest Paying Casino in the West!

Get ready to spin the reels of the Wild West with Dead or Alive, a thrilling slot game that will transport you to a time when outlaws ruled the land. Will you be able to hit the jackpot and come out on top, or will you be left six feet under? Only time will tell in this high-stakes game of luck and strategy. So grab your cowboy hat and get ready to ride into the sunset, because in Dead or Alive, it's truly a matter of life or death. Play Dead or Alive Slot with £$€100 Bonus NOW!

20 Book of Dead Free Spins!
$€£ Goldman Casino - £100 FREE Bonus Offer + FREE SPINS :)
Free spins from deposit

Goldman Casino has been growing in popularity since 2016, making them one of the best go-to real money online casinos on the market. Goldman Online Casino is powered by over 30 of the best software providers, and its games are provided through an easy-to-use web-based platform.

Get 100% up to £100 Free and 20 Free Spins on Book of Dead when you Deposit!

*18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply 

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

register NOW!

           

             secure-casino

Start Today: Play with Real Money NOW!

play

More Tried, Tested & Trusted Online Casinos - Available to Players in over 177 Countries!

 
slotjar online slots casino
SlotJar.com: Est: 2014 - At Slot Jar it's all about the very best games, and strong banking for customers. At SlotJar players have 100% confidence in the casino to look after their interests. Fully Tried and Tested for YEARS!

fast payout casinosSlotJar Safe Online Casino

Join Thousands of Excited Players at SlotJar Today. SlotJar a firm favorite with players from across the globe. Since 2014 Slot Jar has held an enviable reputation for it's service to valued players. No wonder SlotJar is so popular, and visited so often.
Join Thousands of Excited Players Online and Mobile at SlotJar Today. SlotJar a firm favorite with phone casino and big and small money slots players from across the globe. Since 2014 Slot Jar has held an enviable reputation for it's service to valued players. No wonder SlotJar is so popular, and visited so often!

slotjar online slots casino

play

Only the longest established UK casinos, All transactions 100% verified & monitored, fully regulated RNG's, Fastest Paying UK Casinos, Live-Chat and friendliest customer service, 177+ supported countries. 100% satisfaction guarantee.

lucks casino logo
LucksCasino.com: Est 2014 - Long Established, Paying out seamlessly every day for Ten Years!

Get 100% Bonus up to £200!*
LucksCasino Play Up to £$€200 FREE!
$€£ SMS Phone Billing Accepted - Top Live Casino Games

Lucks Casino is well-trusted and here to stay. LucksCasino.com takes advantage of a full suite of top-tier games, meaning you will always be fully entertained. Check out the deals on the site right now!

  • Get 100% up to $€£200 Bonus Today!*

*18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Reel King Mega
Reel King Features Reel King – 1-2 Reel Kings with 8-12 Spins Super King – 2-3 Reel Kings with 8-20 spins. Mega King – 3-6 Reel Kings with 8-25 Spins. Depending on which Reel King Feature you got, 1 – 6 Reel Kings will appear over the reels. The player begins on the leftmost position on the free spins trail, and each Reel King will spin his reels, with prizes available depending on the winning combination you get.
Reel King Mega
Reel King Megaways has 6 reels, and 3 or more matching symbols will form a win starting from the left-most reel. Each reel is capable of holding between 2-7 symbols, and all of these together will determine how many ways to win there are. Ways to win varies every spin depending on how many of these symbols show up on each reel, and can reach that much love 117,649 ways to win, which is maybe the defining feature from Megaways slots that we all know and love.

Start Today: Play with Real Money NOW!

Secure PaymentsPlay Securely at LucksCasino.com

play

Trust

100% Bonus up to £200!
SlotJar Casino International $€£ - UKGC Site for Fast Cash Outs!
20 Free spins on Book of Dead from deposit

SlotJar is your slots pay by phone bill and Online Slots UK Casino jackpots website – It’s not a new casino, it’s been established since 2014, and is one of the most popular slots sites for online and phone payment real money games. Play at SlotJar today and receive a great bonus when you deposit. Play over 2800 different games.

Get 100% Bonus Up to £200 Now!

*18+ Only Full Terms Apply. 

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Start Today: Play with Real Money NOW!

play

A Top UK Casino Slots Amusements Game!
PLAY Lucks Casino Fishin' Frenzy Megaways - Special Feature for Big Wins!
Get 100% up to £200 Free Spins Bonus!

Fishin' Frenzy Megaways (TM) is a Top UK Slots Game with Huge Rewards! Get the boats to come in and watch your stake multiply x£££ at Lucks Casino!


**18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.


We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Start Today: Play with Real Money NOW!

play

A Top Site for Live Dealer Cash Outs!
Play Live Dealer Casino Cash Games with Lucks Casino UK! Pay $£€200 & PLAY £$€400 NOW!*
Choose from Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat and Poker!

Lucks Casino has been entertaining the gambling masses internationally, since 2015, and continues to offer the finest quality table games with bonuses available throughout the year! Lucks allows you to play on mobile or desktop and cash out quickly in £$€. Players are supported in over 177 countries. Enjoy over 2,500 superb games from the best names in the business!

*18+ Only New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Play Triple Edge Poker, Pay $€£200, Play £€$400*
Play Betsoft Triple Edge Poker at SlotJar.com Casino

Triple Edge Poker by Betsoft is a thrilling and engaging video poker game that has become increasingly popular among players. The game offers a unique twist on traditional poker and provides players with an immersive gaming experience that is both entertaining and potentially rewarding.

The Advantages of Playing Triple Edge Poker:

  • Unique gameplay: Triple Edge Poker introduces a new twist on the classic game of poker, as players are able to play three hands at once instead of just one. This increases the level of excitement and increases the player's chances of winning.
  • High-quality graphics: Betsoft is known for its top-notch graphics, and Triple Edge Poker is no exception. The game features realistic and detailed card and table graphics that are sure to immerse players into the game.
  • Great payouts: Triple Edge Poker offers players the opportunity to win big, with payouts that are often higher than traditional video poker games.
  • Convenient and accessible: Triple Edge Poker can be played on desktop and mobile devices, making it convenient for players to access and play the game from wherever they are.
  • Exciting bonus features: Triple Edge Poker features several exciting bonus features, including the chance to win extra payouts and participate in bonus rounds.
  • Overall, Triple Edge Poker by Betsoft is a great choice for players who are looking for a unique and thrilling video poker experience. The game's combination of exciting gameplay, high-quality graphics, and great payouts make it a must-try for any fan of video poker.

*18+ Only New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wagers are calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests void all active and pending bonuses. excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Our Pick - Play Now for 20 Free Spins on Book of Dead
TopSlotSite UK Bonus Offer HERE!
Best Selection of Games!

Play Online Casino at TopSlotSite.com Get 100% Welcome Bonus up to $€£100 and 20 Free Spins*. Enjoy over 1000 Online Casino & Slots Games NOW! t&c's Apply

100% Satisfaction guaranteed! Yes, Top Slot Site is a Gambling Slot Site Where you can play for Real Money and Get your Winnings with Total Ease. So Relax, Select from over 1000 Superb Games and Enjoy our Live Online Gambling and Casino Betting Mecca.


*18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Top Slot Site in the World

Established in 2014 and with over 2800 superb games including Slots, Live Casino, Roulette, Blackjack, Instant win and much more TopSlotSite.com is certain to have a game suited to your needs.

Play Top Slot Site

topslotsite.com
TopSlotSite.com - For the slots enthusiast Top Slot Site has absolutely every thing set up for success.  Play with $€£100 Bonus at the World's Top Slot Site.

Our Pick - Play Now for 20 Free Spins on Book of Dead
TopSlotSite UK Bonus Offer HERE!
Best Selection of Games!

Play Online Casino at TopSlotSite.com Get 100% Welcome Bonus up to $€£100 and 20 Free Spins*. Enjoy over 1000 Online Casino & Slots Games NOW! t&c's Apply

100% Satisfaction guaranteed! Yes, Top Slot Site is a Gambling Slot Site Where you can play for Real Money and Get your Winnings with Total Ease. So Relax, Select from over 1000 Superb Games and Enjoy our Live Online Gambling and Casino Betting Mecca.


*18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Goldman Casino 20p Roulette - For Big Wins!
Goldman Casino £0.20p / $€0.20c Roulette Promotion! Get 100% up to £$€100 FREE!*
+ 20 Free Spins on Book of Dead Slot (min. deposit £10)

GoldmanCasino.com is one of the leading online gaming destinations, offering players a wide range of exciting games and endless opportunities to win big. One of the most popular games at the casino is 20p Roulette, a classic casino game that has been enjoyed by players for generations.

This exciting game combines the thrill of chance with the excitement of spinning the wheel, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for an entertaining and potentially lucrative gaming experience.

Roulette is a simple game to play, with players placing their bets on the numbers or colors they think the ball will land on. The 20p stake means that anyone can enjoy playing this classic game, whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out. With the ease of playing from the comfort of your own home, you can now enjoy the thrill of spinning the wheel without ever having to leave your house.

At GoldmanCasino.com, you'll find a range of different roulette games, including European Roulette and American Roulette. The games are designed to be as realistic as possible, with excellent graphics and sound effects that bring the excitement of the casino to your screen. You'll also find a variety of different betting options, including inside bets and outside bets, so you can choose the type of bet that suits you best.

Another great feature of GoldmanCasino.com is the range of promotions and bonuses available to players. Whether you're a new player or a seasoned pro, you'll find a range of offers that will help you maximize your winnings. For example, the welcome bonus gives new players a chance to double their first deposit, giving them more money to play with and a better chance of hitting a big win.

In addition to the bonuses and promotions, GoldmanCasino.com also offers a range of safe and secure banking options. Whether you prefer to use your credit card, e-wallet, or bank transfer, you'll find a method that suits you. And with 24/7 customer support available, you can be confident that you'll always have help when you need it.

In conclusion, playing 20p Roulette at GoldmanCasino.com is an exciting and potentially lucrative experience. With a wide range of games, bonuses, and promotions, as well as safe and secure banking options, this is the perfect place for anyone looking for an enjoyable and rewarding online gaming experience. So why wait? Head over to Goldman Casino.com today and start spinning the wheel to see if you can win big!


*18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.


We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Play Goldman Casino

Choose from over 2800 Casino & Slots Games at LucksCasino.com! £$€200 Welcome Bonus
Choose from over 2800 Casino & Slots Games at LucksCasino.com! £$€200 Welcome Bonus
Get up to 100% Welcome Bonus NOW!

Welcome to LucksCasino.com, the ultimate online casino gaming destination! With over 2800 casino and slots games to choose from, you're sure to find your new favorite game here.

Our casino games include all the classics, such as blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, as well as a variety of exciting variations of these games. We also offer a huge selection of online slots, featuring everything from classic fruit machines to the latest video slots with stunning graphics and bonus features.

Get £€$200 Welcome BONUS NOW!

At LucksCasino.com, we pride ourselves on offering a safe and secure gaming environment. We use state-of-the-art encryption technology to ensure that your personal and financial information is always protected. Our games are independently tested for fairness by third-party auditors, so you can be sure that you're playing on a level playing field.

We also offer a range of convenient payment options, including credit and debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers, so you can choose the method that works best for you. And if you ever need help or support, our friendly and knowledgeable customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you.

As a new player at Lucks Casino.com, you'll be eligible for a range of exciting bonuses and promotions. Our welcome bonus package includes a generous match bonus on your first deposit, as well as free spins on selected slots. We also run regular promotions, such as cashback offers, prize draws, and leader board tournaments, so you can enjoy even more chances to win.

So why wait? Sign up to LucksCasino.com today and start playing your favorite casino and slots games! With over 2800 games to choose from, unbeatable bonuses and promotions, and a safe and secure gaming environment, you're sure to have a fantastic gaming experience.

*18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wagers are calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests void all active and pending bonuses. excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

100% Bonus up to £200!
SlotJar Casino International $€£ - UKGC Site for Fast Cash Outs!
20 Free spins on Book of Dead from deposit

SlotJar is your slots pay by phone bill and Online Slots UK Casino jackpots website – It’s not a new casino, it’s been established since 2014, and is one of the most popular slots sites for online and phone payment real money games. Play at SlotJar today and receive a great bonus when you deposit. Play over 2800 different games.

Get 100% Bonus Up to £200 Now!

*18+ Only Full Terms Apply. 

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

A Fantastic Slot with Unlimited Free Spins Potential!
Play Legacy of Dead Slot at TopSlotSite.com with 100% up to £$€100 FREE!
Top Slot Site is UKGC Regulated for a Sophisticated Experience

Land the valuable symbols on this amazing slot and experience real JOY and the chance of almost unlimited free spins bonus rounds!

Top Slot Site is packed with over 2800 top slot games for you to enjoy. Get started at this fantastic slots site today!


**18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Get 100% Bonus up to £200!*
LucksCasino Play Up to £$€200 FREE!
$€£ SMS Phone Billing Accepted - Top Live Casino Games

Lucks Casino is well-trusted and here to stay. LucksCasino.com takes advantage of a full suite of top-tier games, meaning you will always be fully entertained. Check out the deals on the site right now!

  • Get 100% up to $€£200 Bonus Today!*

*18+ Only, New Players Only. Wager from real balance first. 50X wager the bonus. Contribution varies per game. selected games only. Wager calculated on bonus bets only. Bonus valid 30 days / Free spins valid 7 days from receipt. Max conversion: 3x the bonus amount or from free spins: £20. Withdrawal requests voids all active/pending bonuses. Excluded Skrill and Neteller deposits. Full Terms Apply

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

           

             secure-casino

Start Today: Play with Real Money NOW!

play

Book of the Dead Online Slot: Book of Dead is a popular online slot game that has become a favorite among many players. Here are some advantages of playing the Book of Dead slot game: High Jackpot: The Book of Dead slot game offers a maximum jackpot of up to 250,000 coins, which is a considerable amount that can be won with just one spin. Free Spins: The game offers a free spins feature, where players can win additional spins without having to wager any additional money. This can increase the chances of hitting the jackpot or other significant payouts. Trust Exciting Theme: The game's theme is based on ancient Egyptian mythology, which creates an exciting and immersive experience for players.
Book of the Dead Online Slot
Simple and Easy to Play: The game is straightforward to play and understand, even for beginners. The game's rules and features are easy to grasp, and there are no complex strategies or skills required to win. Mobile Compatibility: The game is available to play on both desktop and mobile devices, which makes it easy to play anywhere and anytime. Popular and Trusted Game: Book of Dead is a well-known and trusted game in the online gambling industry, with a large following of dedicated players. This means that players can expect a fair and reliable gaming experience. Bonus Features: The game offers a range of bonus features, including expanding symbols and gamble features, which can increase the chances of hitting big payouts. Overall, playing the Book of Dead slot game offers players the chance to win a significant jackpot, enjoy an exciting and immersive theme, and benefit from a range of bonus features, all in a simple and easy-to-play format. PLAY NOW WITH £$€100 Welcome Bonus!
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
100% Satisfaction Guarantee when you deposit and play this game at LucksCasino.com today. Check it out Now!

play

In recent months, Lopez and Sacramento stunned the American soccer world, earning gutsy wins over MLS sides San Jose Earthquakes, LA Galaxy and Sporting Kansas City to reach the final. In the semifinal round against Sporting KC, Lopez stepped up as the hero of the night, scoring the game-winning penalty in a shootout that followed a tense 0-0 draw in regulation time.

Sacramento — the first non-MLS finalists since 2008 — would also become the first lower league team to lift the trophy in the 21st century.

‘Paycheck to paycheck’

It’s a fairy-tale run and one that might not have been a reality if Lopez had ended his time with the sport — which was a possibility nearly a decade ago.

Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Lopez moved to the United States at an early age but eventually made his way back home through the famed Liga MX academy at Chivas. By 2005, Lopez’s career was on the rise through a professional debut with the Guadalajara club’s MLS affiliate, the defunct Chivas USA, and a call-up to the U18 squad for the U.S. youth national team.

Consistent appearances then became difficult to earn for the midfielder at Chivas USA, leading him to a handful of different leagues and teams in a short amount of time. In 2013, he found himself questioning his future during a stint with third-division side Los Angeles Blues (now Orange County SC) in the former USL Pro league.

“I was living paycheck to paycheck … I was sleeping in a closet,” said the 35-year-old. “That just tells you how much love I had for the game.”

Learn more about Gambling!  CNN Guest Declares US Racist, Sexist, Homophobic, Islamophobic, Anti-Semitic - uBetMobile.com

Rodrigo Lopez has led Sacramento Republic to the final of the U.S. Open Cup. Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

When the 2013 season ended, Lopez worked in construction to help put food on the table and provide for his growing family, which included his newborn son Roman. The Sacramento Republic, who were set to begin their first-ever season in the USL in 2014, reached out to him during this time about joining them. He didn’t want to retire from the sport, but also had his doubts about returning. Reciprocating the support that they had received, those close to him helped make a decision to sign with the Republic.

“Speaking to my family, they said it was my chance to really make something out of my career if I really wanted to. They saw how hard I was working doing construction and how miserable I’d be coming home and missing the game,” Lopez said.

Taking advantage of the opportunity given to him, he balanced out a restless offseason schedule that involved going to the gym at five in the morning, working construction all day and then running afterwards during the evening.

“I was more than ready, I had never felt so good in my life,” he said.

As a key figure, Lopez bolstered a Sacramento squad that won a 2014 USL Pro title in their debut season. In the championship game, he would go on to earn honors as the MVP of the match. Unsurprisingly, he gained attention back home in Mexico. By 2016, he made his debut with Celaya in the country’s second division, which later paved the way to a dream move to topflight Liga MX through Toluca and Veracruz.

In his 30s, he returned to Sacramento in 2020 and after a quick stay with Rio Grande Valley FC last year, he’s now back with his third stint at the club — which could prove to be the most meaningful one to date if a national title is lifted next week.

“It would be huge,” said Lopez about possibly winning the U.S. Open Cup. “Sacramento, we’re known to be indomitable and winning a championship doesn’t just reflect on us, but on the whole city.”

‘If you’re MLS, you have to look at Sacramento’

On their path to the U.S. Open Cup final, Sacramento’s soccer community and the Republic, like Lopez, have had their own share of peaks and valleys.

On the rise through a rapidly growing fan base, support from local leaders and plans for a new stadium through a wealthy investor in billionaire Ron Burkle, Sacramento were announced as a new expansion for MLS in 2019, with an expected transition into the league in 2022 — delays due to COVID-19 eventually pushed the project one year further to 2023.

Learn more about Gambling!  Skilrock to showcase its latest products and services at SiGMA Malta - uBetMobile.com

Then in early 2021, the city and team had the rug pulled out from underneath them entirely when Burkle backed out, putting the team’s jump to MLS on an indefinite hiatus. Other cities have since entered the race to take the next expansion spot, including Las Vegas, referred to as the “front-runner” by MLS commissioner Don Garber last December.

Lopez hasn’t shied away from that thorny topic, especially with Sacramento proving not only can they keep up with MLS teams, but also defeat them.

“I’m sure MLS didn’t want us to win today,” he said in June after beating the Galaxy 2-1 in the quarterfinal round. “I don’t care what’s happened in the past. If you’re MLS, you have to look at Sacramento, you have to look at the fan base, you have to look at the city.”

Sacramento had been set to get an MLS side but that has since been put on hold. Erin Chang/ISI Photos/Getty Images

Even so, Lopez was quick to note that he’s perfectly content playing in the USL Championship with Sacramento. Discussing the importance of the organization to him, there was a genuine sense of appreciation from the player that was picked up by the team when he was unsure of his future nearly 10 years ago.

“Whether I’m playing [with Sacramento] in the USL Championship, MLS or whatever it is, I’m happy.”

He plans to continue to extend that joy to supporters, who haven’t lost faith in the Republic amid the paused move to MLS. In 2022, they still boast some of the very best average attendances in the USL Championship, continuing to grow the passionate fan base that has become more and more boisterous and elated with each passing U.S. Open Cup match.

If you ask Lopez, that connection between the club, supporters and players like himself has only become stronger. Gaining a place in next week’s final also doesn’t hurt either when it comes to building enthusiasm and buzz.

“Right now the vibe and the energy from the city and the fans is bigger than it has ever been. We’re embracing it, we’re soaking it all in, we’re ready to make them proud,” Lopez said.

“We’re one game away.”

[ad_2]

#Sacramento #Republics #Rodrigo #Lopez #U.S #Open #Cup #title #MLS #sides #huge

For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com

About Post Author

Dave Petchy

I am a passionate, dedicated guy who's been living in London for 10 years now. I love good food, being creative, cycling and having fun. I'm a firm believer that anything worth achieving is worth working hard for and that you should always challenge yourself to be the best version of you possible. I work as an editor at Petchy Media – the award-winning news site that makes quality journalism accessible to everyone. I've also written for The Guardian and worked with brands like Nike, Adidas and KFC on content production projects.
, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com
Happy
%
, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com
Sad
%
, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com
Excited
%
, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com
Sleepy
%
, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com
Angry
%
, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com
Surprise
%
Next Post

Got another two hands after this one! : gambling - uBetMobile.com

[ad_1] Obtained a different two hands immediately after this one particular! : gambling – /r/Gambling Thank you for publishing to r/gambling! If you are new […]
, For Sacramento Republic’s Rodrigo Lopez, a U.S. Open Cup title over MLS sides ‘would be huge’ – uBetMobile.com
error: Content is protected !!