Match Preview: Republic FC at Birmingham Legion FC
Sacramento’s attack must find its rhythm as they face former head coach Mark Briggs for the first time
Match Details
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 18 at 5:00 p.m. PST
Venue: Protective Stadium – Birmingham, Alabama
Competition: USL Championship
Watch: Antenna TV 40.2, FOX40+, ESPN+
Recent Form
Republic FC enters Wednesday’s match in strong defensive form, fresh off a gritty 0-0 draw against San Antonio FC. The stalemate at Heart Health Park closed out a five-match homestand in which Sacramento allowed just two goals — the fewest in the USL Championship since the start of May. Head Coach Neill Collins has emphasized structure and intensity in his system, and the squad continues to show resilience, particularly at the back.
Now, with four straight road matches ahead, Sacramento faces its most demanding travel stretch of the year — one that could define their summer push in both league and Jägermeister Cup play.
Birmingham Legion FC, meanwhile, is seeking consistency under former Sacramento boss Mark Briggs. Since taking the reins in late April, Briggs has led the Three Sparks to wins in both league and cup play, but back-to-back losses to Indy Eleven and Louisville City have raised questions about their defensive stability. Against LouCity, Birmingham jumped out to an early lead before collapsing under pressure — conceding four goals, including a hat trick from Phillip Goodrum.
Head-to-Head
Wednesday marks the fourth-ever meeting between Sacramento and Birmingham and the first since 2023. Republic FC has yet to secure a victory over the Alabama side — with Birmingham claiming the initial matchup in 2022 and the next two meetings ending in draws.
This match also marks the first encounter between Republic FC and former head coach Mark Briggs since his departure in November 2024 after five seasons in Sacramento. It adds a personal and competitive edge to what might otherwise be a typical inter-conference clash.
Squad News & Availability
Republic FC continues to rotate key players and manage workloads during a compact schedule. Blake Willey returns from international duty, while players like Freddy Kleemann and Jared Timmer are expected to play significant roles anchoring the defense. No major injuries have been reported.
For Birmingham, Ronaldo Damus remains their top attacking threat with six goals on the year. His chemistry with Phillip Goodrum and newcomer Enzo Martinez has shown flashes, but their defensive unit has struggled in transition — something Sacramento will look to exploit.
Tactical Preview & Key Matchups
Sacramento continues to defend well, but their struggles in front of goal remain a concern. Despite 132 shots this season, only 37 have been on target, and just 9 of their 15 goals have been assisted — signs of disjointed attacking play. While players like Herrera and Cicerone have produced moments, the overall finishing and chance creation haven’t matched the possession-heavy style Collins prefers. Against a Birmingham side that’s conceded six goals in their last two matches, Republic FC must be more clinical if they want to finally turn dominance into results.
Midfield control will be crucial. Birmingham’s trio of Martinez, Goodrum, and Damus can be lethal if given space in transition, while Nick Ross and Freddy Kleemann will be tasked with controlling the midfield and shielding Republic FC’s back line.
Briggs knows many of Sacramento’s strengths — and weaknesses — which could make for a tactical chess match against Collins. How Republic responds to Birmingham’s early energy and potential formation surprises may determine the tone of the game.
Final Thoughts & Prediction
This isn’t just another inter-conference game — it’s a reunion full of narrative weight. Sacramento enters with confidence in their defending but still needs to find consistency away from home. Birmingham is under pressure to bounce back, especially in front of their home crowd and with their new head coach facing his former club.
Expect a close, physical contest with moments of emotion. Sacramento will aim to frustrate Birmingham early, while Legion FC will want to test the visitors’ legs after a demanding homestand.
Prediction
Ryan Hodek: 1-0 Birmingham
Valor Nash: 1-1 Draw
Daniel Tyree: 0-0 Draw
Rachael: 1-0 Birmingham
Who do you think got it right? Vote below and leave your own predictions in the comments!