This is the first tournament experience for the club’s unified team, which typically plays full field 11v11 matches.

LOS ANGELES, CA (MPG) – Sacramento Republic FC’s Special Olympics Unified Team went on the road July 20 to face their fellow Californian foes – LA Galaxy, LAFC, and San Jose Earthquakes – in the inaugural SoCal Showcase.

The one-day tournament brought the four teams together round robin-style, in a smaller 9v9 format. This is the first tournament experience for the club’s unified team, which typically plays full field 11v11 matches.

“The entire roster from top to bottom stepped up to take on a difficult challenge. We played against three opponents in just a few short hours, and the adjustments and adaptability that were required were tough but we stayed strong,” said head coach Filip Handl.

Republic FC’s first match kicked off against southern rivals LA Galaxy. Despite netting the match-opener and clutching the momentum and lead early in the first half, the Sacramento side fell to Los Galácticos.

With a quick turn-around, the day’s second match was underway, and despite infiltrating San Jose’s defense by netting their second goal of the tournament, it wasn’t enough for the squad to take the win over The Quakes.

While the results in the opening two matches didn’t go its way, Republic FC did not fail in showcasing standout performances, most notably from Alex Xavier Gomez, who consistently put opponents under pressure and played a pivotal role in the tournament’s every goal contribution.

Republic FC closed out the day with its strongest performance of the tournament against SoCal foes, LAFC.

The Sacramento squad quickly found its stride by playing in a high-press style, which allowed Republic FC forward Cece Gallegos to net two goals in under 60 seconds. An amazing defensive effort came from goalkeeper Michael Nakano, who made three critical saves, allowing the squad to maintain the tied score. 

“It was an honor to be part of this first-ever event in which all four pro clubs that have Unified soccer teams in California came together for a great day of soccer. We look forward to participating in the tournament in coming years and continuing to get better and grow as a team and in how Unified soccer is represented to California soccer fans,” said Handl.

The Unified team’s next match will be back on the road, where the squad will take on Colorado Springs Switchbacks on Sept. 20, a double-header alongside the first team.

Fans can cheer and show support for the squad with a special edition scarf. The Unified Team Scarf is available online and in-store at the Pro Shop with 100% of proceeds benefitting the team to assist with travel, equipment and support throughout the 2025 season.