This Saturday marks the kickoff of the USL Championship Playoffs, a thrilling time for soccer fans across the nation. One team that’s consistently in the spotlight is Danny Cruz’s Louisville City FC, which is aiming to cement its legacy as one of the finest in USL history. Following significant offseason departures, including key players Elijah Wynder and Wilson Harris, Louisville has once again showcased its ability to rebuild and strengthen its squad. The team achieved a remarkable feat this season, finishing with a record-setting 73 points in just 30 matches, thereby clinching the Players’ Shield for the second year in a row.
Despite not reaching the USL Cup final last year, the atmosphere feels charged with potential this season. Louisville City FC boasts an impressive home record, going unbeaten at their home ground, Lynn Family Stadium. Their potent offense features standout performances from Phillip Goodrum, who netted 13 goals, and Taylor Davila, who contributed nine assists. Successfully defending their home ground, Louisville allowed only eight goals throughout their matches, making it a true fortress. Moreover, they will be able to leverage their home advantage throughout the playoff run.
At just 35 years old, Cruz accomplished the milestone of becoming the youngest coach to achieve 100 league wins, accomplishing this remarkable feat in only his 169th match at the helm. Closing the season with a staggering 16-match unbeaten streak, Louisville’s achievements during this expanded 30-game season are unmatched, and anything less than a championship would indeed be surprising.
While I’ve hinted at my championship prediction, let’s explore the potential paths that could lead to this outcome. Fans can also create their own brackets through available resources to follow the progression in this year’s playoffs.
Conference Quarterfinal Schedule
All times listed are Eastern
Saturday, Nov. 1
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Hartford Athletic | 6:30 p.m. | ESPN+
Louisville City FC vs. Detroit City SC | 7 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network
North Carolina FC vs. Loudoun United FC | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN+
FC Tulsa vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC | 8 p.m. | ESPN+
New Mexico United vs. San Antonio FC | 9 p.m. | ESPN+
El Paso Locomotive FC vs. Phoenix Rising FC | 9:30 p.m. | ESPN+
Sunday, Nov. 2
Charleston Battery vs. TBD | 2 p.m. | CBS Sports Network
Sacramento Republic FC vs. Orange County SC | 9 p.m. | CBS Sports Network
Chuck Booth’s Predictions
Conference Quarterfinal Insights
In the Western Conference, FC Tulsa continues their promising campaign with a strong performance at home, though challenges lie ahead. Phoenix Rising FC ended the season strongly, securing just one loss in their last ten games, and they have the energy to advance past the first round. Home-advantage teams New Mexico United and Sacramento Republic FC should have smooth sailing in their respective matches.
On the Eastern side, early predictions favor higher-seeded teams, with Louisville City FC poised to win their opener. However, an exciting twist could come from Ryan Martin’s Loudoun United, who are looking to make history in their inaugural playoff appearance against North Carolina FC. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds will rely on interim manager Rob Vincent; an unbeaten run in their last three matches may give them the momentum needed to push through.
Projecting the Quarterfinals
It’s no surprise that Louisville City FC will proceed, likely halting Pittsburgh’s playoff journey at Lynn Family Stadium. Charleston is expected to handle Loudoun United with relative ease. As the rounds progress, the potential for surprises increases, with New Mexico United possibly eliminating Sacramento, and Phoenix rising to victory over top-seeded FC Tulsa.
Semifinal Showdowns
As Phoenix heads to New Mexico following their quarterfinal upset, the crowd support could be a massive boost for the visitors, propelling them to the USL final. In the Eastern Conference, expect a fierce battle between the top two seeds. Charleston may present a challenge, but ultimately, Louisville City FC should advance to the finals for the first time since their 2022 appearance, where they faced defeat against San Antonio.
The Final Face-off
It’s noteworthy that Louisville City FC hasn’t clinched a USL Championship since 2018. This season, the team has the opportunity to end that streak, gearing up to host the final for an impressive third time. Ultimately, it’s expected that Louisville will emerge victorious against New Mexico United, further solidifying Danny Cruz’s evolving legacy within the club.
