Match Preview: Republic FC vs. San Antonio FC
Coming off the first home loss of the season, Republic look to bounce back and close out a five match homestand strong.
Match Details
Date & Time: Saturday, June 14 at 8:00 p.m. PST
Venue: Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
Competition: USL Championship
Watch: FOX40, FOX40+ & ESPN+
Recent Form
Republic FC will look to rebound after suffering their first home defeat of the 2025 season, a narrow 1-0 loss to FC Tulsa in a scrappy, whistle-filled contest. Despite dictating possession and pushing the tempo from the flanks, Sacramento couldn’t find the net after conceding early. The result ends a seven-match home unbeaten streak in all competitions and leaves Sacramento sitting mid-table as they prepare for four straight road games following Saturday’s fixture.
While Neill Collins’ side has shown improved buildup play and ball retention, they’ve struggled to turn possession into goals. Just 38% of their shots have found the target over the last five matches, and their five-game record across all competitions stands at 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss — with six goals scored and five conceded.
San Antonio FC arrives in top form. After missing the playoffs last year, they’ve re-emerged as serious contenders under new coach Carlos Llamosa. Their 3-0 dismantling of Las Vegas Lights last weekend was a statement performance, stretching their record to 6-2-2 and placing them firmly in a tie for second in the Western Conference.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Republic FC has enjoyed the upper hand against San Antonio, holding a 7-5-3 advantage in the series. Even more promising for the home side is their recent run: four straight wins against San Antonio in Sacramento, all decided by a single goal or less. This rivalry is known for its intensity — nearly 400 fouls and 80 yellow cards have been recorded across the 15-match history — and another tight, physical battle is likely.
Squad News & Availability
Republic FC continues to rely on the attacking tandem of Russell Cicerone and Sebastian Herrera, each with three goals and two assists in league play. Freddy Kleemann, one of the league’s premier defenders this season, leads USL Championship in aerial duels won (64) and remains a cornerstone in Sacramento’s back line. Jack Gurr and Ryan Spaulding continue to provide width and delivery from the flanks, and Trevor Amann has proven an impactful option off the bench.
Blake Willey returns from international duty with the U.S. U-18s after helping secure the UEFA Friendship Cup. His availability could offer a fresh spark as the club rotates ahead of a demanding road stretch.
Tactical Preview & Key Matchups
Sacramento’s ability to control possession hasn’t translated to goals — and against a San Antonio side that thrives on transitions and ruthlessness in front of goal, wastefulness could be costly. Sacramento must improve their final-third efficiency, particularly in moments of overload and wide-area delivery.
San Antonio’s Jorge Hernandez is the man to watch. The 2023 Golden Playmaker has evolved into a lethal scorer, with 7 goals and a league-best 27 chances created. If Sacramento’s midfield and back line give him time and space, he’ll punish them.
Midfield control will be pivotal. Expect Luis Felipe and Nick Ross to be tasked with containing San Antonio’s creativity while also jumpstarting Sacramento’s tempo.
Final Thoughts & Prediction
This match closes out Republic FC’s five-game homestand — and it’s a must-win. With a difficult four-game road swing looming, anything less than three points could see Sacramento slipping in the Western Conference standings. The pressure is on to rediscover the ruthless finishing they showed against Las Vegas two weeks ago and capitalize on home-field advantage one last time.
Prediction
Ryan Hodek: 1-1 Draw
Valor Nash: 2-2 Draw
Daniel Tyree: 1-0 Republic FC
Rachael: 1-1 Draw
Who do you think got it right? Vote below and leave your own predictions in the comments!