Triple Threat: CanMNT put 1 foot in 2021 Gold Cup quarter-finals with big 4-1 win over Haiti

Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team rode an early Stephen Eustaquio goal to a 4-1 win over Haiti, their third such win over their Haitian foes in this past month. Here is what stood out from this game, which proved to be a comfortable win for Canada, despite some nervy moments along the way.  The destination may have been the right one, but the journey to … Continue reading Triple Threat: CanMNT put 1 foot in 2021 Gold Cup quarter-finals with big 4-1 win over Haiti

Departed Derek: Analyzing Derek Cornelius’s loan to Panetolikos and what it means for the Vancouver Whitecaps

The Vancouver Whitecaps officially loaned out 23-year-old centre back, Derek Cornelius, to Greek Super League side Panetolikos on Monday. Here is a look at what this move means for the ‘Caps.  After an up-and-down tenure to date, they’ve elected to give him a fresh start.  As has been reported over the last few days, the Vancouver Whitecaps have now officially loaned out 23-year-old centre back … Continue reading Departed Derek: Analyzing Derek Cornelius’s loan to Panetolikos and what it means for the Vancouver Whitecaps

Ranking Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team’s 2021 Gold Cup Squad by ‘Surprise Rating’

With the return of Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team for the 2021 Gold Cup, we break down their latest squad, which was announced earlier this month, by giving them a ‘Surprise Rating’.  After a memorable month of June, they’re looking to keep the good times rolling in July.  For Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team, they’ve already had the ideal summer, having qualified for the final … Continue reading Ranking Canada Soccer’s Men’s National Team’s 2021 Gold Cup Squad by ‘Surprise Rating’

Second ‘Caps Thoughts: Vancouver Whitecaps get set to hit reset button during break after 2-1 loss to Houston Dynamo

In Second ‘Caps Thoughts, our day-after piece looking at all things Vancouver Whitecaps, we look back at the ‘Caps latest result, a tough 2-1 loss to the Houston Dynamo. Here’s some of what stood out from that game.  After a strong start, it’s time to head back to the drawing board.  As they get set to take on a month-long break, the Vancouver Whitecaps will … Continue reading Second ‘Caps Thoughts: Vancouver Whitecaps get set to hit reset button during break after 2-1 loss to Houston Dynamo

To 4-3-3 or not to 4-3-3: Analyzing how 15 minutes of play (and some stats) might spell the end of the Vancouver Whitecaps 4-4-2

The ‘Caps have continued to rock with a 4-4-2 to start the 2021 season, to mixed results. Based on 15 minutes of play, and some numbers, that might be set to change, though. Here’s a look at why.  To 4-3-3 or not to 4-3-3, that is the question.  It might not be as existential as Shakespeare’s original quote, but in a sense, answering this sort … Continue reading To 4-3-3 or not to 4-3-3: Analyzing how 15 minutes of play (and some stats) might spell the end of the Vancouver Whitecaps 4-4-2

Second ‘Caps Thoughts: A few old problems come back to haunt Vancouver Whitecaps against SKC, but changes are on the horizon

In Second ‘Caps Thoughts, our day-after column looking at the Vancouver Whitecaps, we reflect on a tough ‘Caps loss to Sporting Kansas City from Sunday. Here’s some of what stood out to us.  It was one heck of a way to be brought back to reality.  Riding the wave of a strong start to the 2021 MLS season, the Vancouver Whitecaps were brought back down … Continue reading Second ‘Caps Thoughts: A few old problems come back to haunt Vancouver Whitecaps against SKC, but changes are on the horizon

Second ‘Caps Thoughts: Vancouver Whitecaps left to ponder missed chances and moral victories after 1-0 loss to Minnesota United

In Second ‘Caps Thoughts, our day-after column looking at all things Vancouver Whitecaps, we look back at the ‘Caps loss to Minnesota United from Wednesday night. Here’s what stood out to us in that one.  For how close they were to making magic happen, the ending had to hurt.  Having fought hard throughout the first 70 minutes, the Vancouver Whitecaps seemed like they were close … Continue reading Second ‘Caps Thoughts: Vancouver Whitecaps left to ponder missed chances and moral victories after 1-0 loss to Minnesota United

Rose’s Rise: Breaking down how Andy Rose has quietly been one of the best centre backs in MLS over the past year

31-year-old Vancouver Whitecaps centre back Andy Rose has quietly been one of the best centre backs in MLS over the past 16 months, despite not really playing the position before then. Here’s a look at some of the numbers that suggest that the ‘Caps might have unearthed a hidden gem at centre back in Rose.  Despite a few injuries to start the season, it has … Continue reading Rose’s Rise: Breaking down how Andy Rose has quietly been one of the best centre backs in MLS over the past year

Free the Bair: Analyzing why Theo Bair could have a breakout season in 2021 with more minutes

Heading into the start of the 2021 season, the ‘Caps are looking to once again be a team that gives significant minutes to young players. One such young player that is looking to earn a significant chunk of those minutes is forward Theo Bair, who will be looking to have a strong 2021 season, building off of what he’s shown in flashes since making his … Continue reading Free the Bair: Analyzing why Theo Bair could have a breakout season in 2021 with more minutes

Building Blocks: Breaking down Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team’s new tactical identity under Bev Priestman after April friendlies

Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team continued their quest to find a new identity under head coach Bev Priestman earlier this month, as they convened for a pair of UK Friendlies against Wales and England, which they won 3-0 and 2-0, respectively. In this, we look at what stood out tactically for Canada in these games, as well as who stood out individually.  As far as … Continue reading Building Blocks: Breaking down Canada Soccer’s Women’s National Team’s new tactical identity under Bev Priestman after April friendlies