San Jose Earthquakes vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC
MLS Regular Season - VWFC Match #15
Wednesday, October 7, 2020 - 7:38 p.m. PT
Earthquakes Stadium, San Jose, CA
TV: TSN1/4/5 - RADIO: TSN Radio 1040
MAKE YOUR MARK: Wednesday's contest is a matchup between two second-year MLS head coaches and tacticians as Marc Dos Santos looks to find ways to counter Matías Almeyda's man-marking defence. Dos Santos has stressed the importance of midfield play and with Leonard Owusu and Russell Teibert having missed recent action due to injury, plus Janio Bikel out due to suspension, the 'Caps may look to Michael Baldisimo and Andy Rose as options against the Quakes, who look to have righted their ship with two straight victories.
HIGH-OCTANE: The midweek clash could be another high-scoring affair after the two sides featured in a thrilling back-and-forth matchup at the MLS is Back Tournament last July. The 'Caps scored three goals in the first meeting, tied for their single-game high in 2020. The Quakes have conceded at least five goals in five different occasions this year but have shored up their defence as of late, giving up only a goal each in their last two outings. Cristian Dájome and Fredy Montero each have three goals to lead the 'Caps, while super sub Chris Wondolowski has four goals for the Quakes. Lucas Cavallini is out due to yellow card accumulation.
OVERCOMING ADVERSITY: The two clubs are scrapping to climb the playoff race as the 'Caps trail the Quakes by two points in the Western Conference. They both have faced adversity this season as the 'Caps have dealt with unavailable players due to injury and personal reasons, all while having to relocate their home base to Portland. The Quakes, on the other hand, have seen their time on the training pitch limited due to the California wildfires.
CLIPPING THE WINGS: Ali Adnan, Erik Godoy, and Jake Nerwinski are the 'Caps options at full back against a Quakes system that emphasizes on giving their Designated Players Cristian Espinoza and Vako, as well as former Liga MX midfielder Carlos Fierro, scoring chances from the wings. Espinoza is tied for third in MLS with seven assists.
OPPORTUNITY AWAITS: With a busy slate ahead and playing their second road match in five nights, the 'Caps may tap on their fresh legs against San Jose. Theo Bair, Michael Baldisimo, Patrick Metcalfe, and Ryan Raposo, all 21 and under, should have some spring in their steps after playing off the bench on Saturday. Evan Bush and Tosaint Ricketts are also available and well-rested to provide experience.
INJURY REPORT
Questionable: Leonard Owusu, Russell Teibert
Out: Maxime Crépeau, Cristián Gutiérrez, Thomas Hasal - not medically cleared
IF THE 'CAPS WIN, YOU WIN
With a ‘Caps win, you'll win free fries from A&W! To redeem, simply download the A&W app, add your fries and at least one more item to your cart, and then enter the code CAPSWIN at checkout.
50/50
Help at-risk youth at Covenant House Vancouver and be in with the chance to win the big prize. You don't even have to leave your sofa. Buy your tickets between 6 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. PT on matchday.
WATCH IT LIVE, PRESENTED BY PHILLIPS
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SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
Show your support for the ‘Caps at home and get featured on our social media channels by sharing a photo or video of you cheering on the boys using the hashtag #VWFC and tagging us @WhitecapsFC.
GEAR UP
Drop in to the Official Store at 385 Water Street from Thursday to Sunday. Get 50% off Hoop and Unity jerseys, and pick up a VanAqua x Whitecaps FC facemask* while you're there and help support the aquarium!
*offers not available online
