The concluding match of the West 7 group stage carries crucial knockout round implications for four teams: LAFC, Austin FC, Club Tijuana, and the Vancouver Whitecaps. All eyes will be on the pivotal clash between Vancouver and Tijuana, as the outcome will determine the matchups and venues for the subsequent round. This game, scheduled for Saturday, August 3 at 10 p.m. at BC Place, is a highly anticipated event for everyone on this side of the bracket.
Vancouver found themselves in an unexpected predicament, heading into extra time against LAFC. Despite holding a lead with just minutes remaining and on the brink of securing all three points against a traditionally tough opponent, a last-minute equalizer from Mateusz Bogusz saw LAFC level the score. This sudden shift dropped Vancouver's three points to two and secured LAFC's qualification into the knockout stages, leaving Vancouver's fate hanging until their next game. Caps Head Coach Vanni Sartini received a red card shortly after for arguing the call.
Now, the Caps must secure points in their final match to advance to the next round. They need a win, either in penalties or within 90 minutes, and they will emerge as the Group winners of West 7.
“We prepare for the game like an elimination game,” said Sartini. “We are not thinking about we need to tie, no. We try to win.”
Tijuana comes into the match with zero points due to losing to LAFC 3-0 in their last Leagues Cup match, for Los Xolos to qualify for the next round, they have to grab all the points possible and win within regular time. Tijuana would clinch second place in this group and then would face off versus Austin at Q2 Stadium.
Sartini had some nice things to say about the traveling Tijuana fans that may show up to the home of the Whitecaps, “I hope they come here [with] mas.’ he exclaimed. “It’s always nice to have loud and colorful fans...the stadium becomes fantastic, so I hope the atmosphere [for the game] will be electric.”
If Ryan Gauld is in the lineup, unlike the LAFC game, the Caps' offense will look significantly different. Gauld has been instrumental, recording nine goals and nine assists, totaling 18 goal contributions in MLS play. Vancouver could use his offensive prowess against a Liga MX side. While Sebastian Berhalter capitalized on Gauld's absence by scoring a long-range goal for Vancouver, it ultimately wasn't enough to secure the win.
In what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the West 7 group stage, the clash between Tijuana and Vancouver carries immense significance for the knockout round. This match is expected to be a nail-biter right up to the final whistle, that is what usually happens when Soccer meets Futbol.
