Republic FC Bolsters Attack with Signing of Jamaican Striker Khori Bennett
Sacramento Republic FC has added a major weapon to its attacking arsenal with the signing of Jamaican striker Khori Bennett, a move that could shift the trajectory of the club’s 2025 campaign. As Sacramento enters the second half of the season in the thick of a tight Western Conference playoff race, Bennett’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment—bringing physicality, experience, and a proven scoring touch to a side that has struggled to consistently finish chances.
“Khori is an important addition for us at this stage in the season to bolster our front line,” said Republic FC President and General Manager Todd Dunivant. “He brings strength, physicality, and tenacity in front of goal, and we are looking forward to quickly integrating him into our group.”
Republic FC has created opportunities this season, but has often lacked a reliable finisher to capitalize on them. Bennett’s track record suggests he could fill that void. In 2024, he led the USL Championship Western Conference with 15 goals for Las Vegas Lights FC, helping the club reach the postseason for the first time in its history. His standout June included six goals and one assist, earning him Player of the Month honors. He followed that with a four-game scoring streak in August and added a game-winning goal in the playoffs to knock out top-seeded New Mexico United—cementing his status as one of the league’s most dangerous forwards.
Bennett’s breakout year drew international attention, leading to a transfer to Kuwait Premier League club Al-Nasr SC for a record fee. In eight appearances, he added one goal and two assists before returning to the USL. He also earned his first call-up to the Jamaican National Team in November 2024 for the Concacaf Nations League Quarterfinals, further proof of his rising profile.
Sacramento’s struggles in front of goal have eased slightly in recent matches, but the addition of a forward like Bennett—who thrives in physical matchups and knows how to deliver in high-pressure moments—could be transformative. Whether playing centrally or on the wing, he offers tactical flexibility and a finishing edge that Sacramento has sorely lacked.
Bennett began his pro career in 2022 with Charlotte Independence in USL League One, scoring 18 goals in two seasons and leading the club to consecutive playoff appearances, including the 2023 League One Final. His first career hat trick came in July 2022, and he was named League One Player of the Month shortly after.
A native of Saint Andrew, Jamaica, Bennett played collegiately at Northeastern University before transferring to Radford University for his senior season. Since turning professional, he has consistently raised the ceiling of every team he’s joined—and Sacramento is hoping he’ll do the same in a red and black kit.
If Bennett can settle in quickly and find his form, Republic FC may finally have the finishing piece to elevate from contender to true championship threat in 2025.
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