They sent out the following press release and wanted to share.

Enjoy the read:

Pro sports continue to take centre stage adding to that list are eight players with the following Ahmed, Nelson, Berhalter, Blackmon, Cubas, Cabrera, Bovalina, and Mackenzie have been called up as International football returns for several countries with 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup qualification on the line. 

Talent rises to the top hearing that eight Vancouver Whitecaps FC first team players have been called up to their respective countries which is tied for fourth-most in MLS for call-ups across the league.

The next  couple weeks.

Ali Ahmed, Jayden Nelson – Canada

Canada Men’s National team schedule
Romania vs. Canada     September 5 – 11 a.m. PT       Arena Națională, Bucharest, Romania

Wales vs. Canada          September 9 – 11:45 a.m. PT  Swansea.com Stadium, Swansea, Wales

Canada returns to action this month for a pair of European friendlies as they continue their prep towards next summer. 

The team will be looking to bounce back following their exit from the Concacaf Gold Cup in June and will hope to do so with the help of ‘Caps forwards Ali Ahmed and Jayden Nelson.

The attacking pair have been in scintillating form for the Blue and White this season.

At the time of writing, Ahmed has recorded a career-high six assists across all competitions, while Nelson sits third on the team in goal contributions with 11 and leads the team in assists with nine.

Both players started two of their three appearances for the CanMNT in the previous window and with only a couple windows left before the World Cup, they’ll be looking to solidify their spots in Jesse Marsch’s attacking corps this month.

The two friendly matches will air live on OneSoccer, available on the FuboTV Canada platform, as a linear channel on Telus’s Optik TV (Channel 980), as well as online at OneSoccer.ca and through the OneSoccer app.

Sebastian Berhalter, Tristan Blackmon – United States

United States Men’s National team schedule
United States vs. Korea Republic     September 6 – 2 p.m. PT 

Sports Illustrated Stadium, Harrison, New Jersey

United States vs. Japan    September 9 – 4:30 p.m. PT    Lower.com Field, Columbus, Ohio

The United States will also be looking to bounce back this window following their defeat at the hands of Mexico in the Concacaf Gold Cup final. 

They’ll play two friendlies against Asian opposition, first hosting Korea Republic in Harrison, New Jersey and then welcoming Japan to Columbus, Ohio.

Sebastian Berhalter returns to Mauricio’s Pochettino’s fold after a strong Gold Cup tournament that saw him start five of their six matches, while Tristan Blackmon earns his second invite to USMNT camp with eyes on earning his first international cap for his country.

The pair have had stellar campaigns for the ‘Caps, playing key roles in helping the team reach the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup final as well as cementing the club as a contender in the Western Conference. 

They’ve also earned league recognition as MLS All-Stars this season and have firmly placed themselves in the conversations for MLS’ year-end awards.

Andrés Cubas – Paraguay

Paraguay Men’s National team schedule
Paraguay vs. Ecuador September 4 – 4:30 p.m. PT   Estadio Defensores del Chaco, Asunción, Paraguay

Peru vs. Paraguay
– Tuesday, September 9 – 4:30 p.m. PT          Estadio Nacional, Lima, Peru

Andrés Cubas is on the brink of helping Paraguay achieve history. 

The Albirroja, who have put together some impressive results during qualifying against Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia, can seal their spot in a World Cup for the first time in 15 years by earning just a single point in their final two matches of qualifying.

First up is a clash against former Whitecaps FC playmaker Pedro Vite and Ecuador, which will then be followed up with a trip to Peru to take on Kenji Cabrera in Paraguay’s final match.

Similar to his prowess with the ‘Caps since joining the club in 2022, Cubas has been an instrumental piece in Paraguay’s squad, starting 14 of the 16 matches during this qualifying cycle.

Kenji Cabrera – Peru

Peru Men’s National team schedule
Uruguay vs. Peru      September 4 – 4:30 p.m. PT     Estadio Centenario, Montevideo, Uruguay

Peru vs. Paraguay      September 9 – 4:30 p.m. PT       Estadio Nacional, Lima, Peru

As previously mentioned, Kenji Cabrera will be facing off against Cubas this window when Paraguay pay a visit to Peru next Tuesday.

This marks Cabrera’s third call-up to his country’s senior side and he’ll be itching to earn his first international cap, as Peru aim to wrap up their qualifying campaign in style. 

Mathematically, Peru could still qualify for the playoff spot (seventh place), but they’d have to win both of their final matches against Uruguay and Paraguay.

Cabrera has made three appearances for Whitecaps FC since arriving in Vancouver.

Giuseppe Bovalina – Australia U-23

Australia Men’s U-23 National team schedule
Australia vs. Northern Marina Islands     September 3 Xi’an Sports Training Centre, Xi’an, China

Australia vs. Timor-Leste    September 6         Xi’an Sports Training Centre, Xi’an, China

China vs, Australia           September 9      Xi’an International Football Centre, Xi’an, China

Australia’s U-23s are set to compete in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers this window. Qualifiers for the 7th edition of the tournament, to be held in Saudi Arabia, will feature 44 teams that will then be divided into 11 groups.

Each group within qualifying will be contested in a centralised league format, with teams seeded into pots based on a points system derived from their final rankings across the previous three editions of the finals, which saw Australia’s U-23s drawn from Pot 1. 

The squad will need to finish as one of the 11 Group winners or the four best second-placed teams to advance to the finals.

The team will play three matches during the qualifiers against Northern Marina Islands, Timor-Leste, and hosts China.

This marks the third time Bovalina has been called up to Australia’s U-23 side.

Liam Mackenzie – Canada U-18

Canada men’s U-18 national team September schedule
Finland U-18 vs. Canada U-18            Friday, September 5

Switzerland U-18 vs. Canada U-18      Sunday, September 7

Comox, BC native Liam Mackenzie has also been called up to Canada’s U-18 for an upcoming preparation camp in Finland from August 30 to September 8.

As part of the camp, the team will play two friendly matches against Finland and Switzerland.

The camp marks an important step in the lead-up to the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, with the qualification cycle beginning in 2026 at the U-19 level.

WFC2 & Whitecaps FC BMO Academy Call-Ups

In addition to the eight first team players called up this window, another eight Whitecaps FC 2 (WFC2) and Whitecaps FC BMO Academy players have received call-ups to represent their countries at youth level.

Whitecaps FC 2
– Rayan Elloumi: Canada U-18      Johnny Selemani: Canada U-17

Whitecaps FC BMO Academy
– Ben Nash: Canada U-18               Sahil Deo: Canada U-17
– Antoine Nehme: Canada U-17     Yuma Tsuji: Canada U-17
– Aziz Aguma: Uganda U-17         Kunle Tokode: Nigeria U-17

The post Whitecaps Call Up’s first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.

If there was any down-side to the match it was the video review at the end of the match for a VAR giving the penalty kick to Thomas Muller (35) in extended stoppage time setting up his first goal and game-winner for the Caps.

Whitecaps FC head coach Jesper Sørensen named German legend Müller to the starting XI, as the Raumdeuter laced up for his first start in the Blue and White colours.

It’s ironic that the goal goes down in the record books as an historic goal during the 14th minute of stoppage time to the delight of everyone unless you were a United fan.

They also relied on striker Brian White’s successful first-half penalty, and midfielder Sebastian Berhalter, who notched his eighth assist of 2025 when he set up substitute striker Daniel Ríos’ header.

This result meant that the ’Caps stayed in third in the MLS Western Conference, only one point behind Minnesota United FC with a game in hand.

Enjoy the read from the Whitecaps:

Müller was involved in the action early on. Off a Berhalter corner kick, the captain alertly made space in the middle of the box, and put a sharp header towards goal that sailed inches wide of CITY SC ’keeper Roman Bürki’s far post.

The six-foot-two Swiss international ‘keeper weathered the storm. Though in the seventh minute, three Whitecaps FC players put on a mesmerizing display of ball possession that came two feet from glory. 

Jayden Nelson expertly dribbled his way into the danger area, drew a defender close, and then laid off for Andrés Cubas, who quickly flashed the ball across the 18-yard line to an onrushing Édier Ocampo. 

His powerful attempt swerved beyond the far post out of play – barely missing White’s outstretched boot.

However, the boys from St. Louis were able to turn the tide. Before the quarter hour, right back Conrad Wallem put a pinpoint cross into the box that was headed home by leaping midfielder Eduard Löwen past Whitecaps FC ’keeper Yohei Takaoka for a 1-0 CITY SC lead.

The Blue and White replied with a creative answer from another Berhalter corner. The ball eventually dropped to Sabbi, who flexed his muscles to smash a 17-yard volley that failed to bend inside the post.

The BC Place faithful erupted in an appeal for a penalty when CITY SC left back Devin Padelford stuck out a boot that took down Sabbi in the box, but referee Fotis Bazakos waved no.

On the next play – the seventh Berhalter corner of the first half – Whitecaps FC’s hard work finally paid off. The Blue and White did receive a penalty kick, after centre back Tristan Blackmon was tripped.

White stepped up in stoppage time to calmly chip in his eighth career goal against CITY SC to tie the match at 1-1 at the half.

The successful penalty was also White’s 20th goal across all competitions this season, which equalled his career scoring high set in 2023.

Photo below from the Vancouver Whitecaps FC!!

In the second half, the Müller magic returned. As he accelerated to full flight down the right wing, he peeked around a defender, and then delivered a sublime cross that found Sabbi, who lashed a low shot that stung Bürki’s palms.

The Sabbi highlight reel continued, when he tried to return the favour with a sprint into the box. After being clipped, the ball bounced to White that went high over the crossbar.

Sabbi kept pushing up the pitch with dizzying speed. He floated a cross to substitute Ali Ahmed; his one-touch forced Bürki into a desperate punch on the goal line. White tried to follow up from five yards out, but his attempt was blocked.

Ahmed and Sabbi had brilliant back-to-back attempts on target – the latter forced Bürki into full stretch to paw away the Sabbi strike.

Against the run of play, CITY SC struck back. Right wing Sang Bin Jeong spotted forward João Klauss with a through ball, and he spun to the left past two defenders to draw Takaoka off his line.

Klauss then juked the other way to slyly slip the ball in for a 2-1 lead.

With time at a premium, Berhalter stepped up to provide a free kick. His service dipped enough for substitute striker Ríos to tip a successful header under the bar in the 79th minute.

At 2-2, and during 10 minutes of stoppage time, defender Mathías Laborda almost drew Bürki off his line during a mad scramble. The CITY SC captain recovered with help from defenders.

Near the end of the extra time, Laborda was back in the box, this time clipped from behind. Müller played hero to complete the jaw-dropping comeback.

Next up, Whitecaps FC will have two consecutive weekends without matches before the boys continue their homestand at BC Place against Philadelphia Union on Saturday, September 13 at 6:30 p.m. PT. Tickets are already moving fast, but still available at whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

MATCH DETAILS

Referee: Fotis Bazakos

Attendance: 26,031

Scoring Summary

14’ – STL – Eduard Löwen (Conrad Wallem)

45’+4 – VAN – Brian White (penalty kick)

73’ – STL – João Klauss (Sang Bin Jeong)

79’ – VAN – Daniel Ríos (Sebastian Berhalter)

90’+14 – VAN – Thomas Müller (penalty kick)

Caution

69’ – VAN – Andrés Cubas

Statistics

Possession: VAN 59.2% – STL 40.8%

Shots: VAN 22 – STL 11

Shots on Goal: VAN 8 – STL 4

Saves: VAN 2 – STL 4

Fouls: VAN 13 – STL 12

Offsides: VAN 1 – STL 1

Corners: VAN 11 – STL 1

Vancouver Whitecaps FC

1.Yohei Takaoka; 18.Édier Ocampo (28.Tate Johnson 86’), 12.Belal Halbouni, 33.Tristan Blackmon, 2.Mathías Laborda; 16.Sebastian Berhalter, 20.Andrés Cubas (17.Kenji Cabrera 77’); 11.Emmanuel Sabbi (6.Ralph Priso 86’), 13.Thomas Müller ©, 7.Jayden Nelson (22.Ali Ahmed 62’); 24.Brian White (14.Daniel Ríos 77’)

Substitutes not used

32.Isaac Boehmer, 15.Sebastian Schonlau, 26.J.C. Ngando, 59.Jeevan Badwal

St. Louis CITY SC

1.Roman Bürki ©; 2.Devin Padelford (91.Jaziel Orozco 65’), 5.Henry Kessler, 6.Conrad Wallem, 32.Timo Baumgarti; 7.Tomáš Ostrák (59.Mykhi Joyner 57’), 8.Chris Durkin (27.Alfredo Morales 65’), 10.Eduard Löwen; 17.Marcel Hartel, 77.Sang Bin Jeong (11.Simon Becher 83’), 9.João Klauss (12.Celio Pompeu 83’)

Substitutes not used

39.Ben Lundt, 3.Jake-Girdwood-Reich, 14.Tomas Totland

The post Controversal Call Sets Up Muller’s Game Winner first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.

For our “two cents worth” the Park desperately needs lights at the entrance plus additional seating as well as something other than the two metal rusty containers on the far side of the field which are waiting for someone to get seriously injured before changes are made. SAD BUT TRUE!!!

If you’re old enough to remember the park was to have an arrangement with the Whitecaps back in 2008 allowing them to develop a team training facility, plus a National Training Centre.

That was when Delta’s Mayor Lois Jackson had a meeting with Premier Gordon Campbell discussing establishing the above mentioned National Soccer Training facility.

Just thinking – just maybe Lois might be able to add some additional thoughts to why this fell apart – just maybe?

The idea to build a soccer training centre at the 20-hectare (50-acre) land saw the municipality sign a memorandum of understanding with the Whitecaps to construct a $31 million plan which included a clubhouse for both National and Professional players, on several fields to which Delta would pay for all roadway improvements. 

The Municipality would provide a 60-year-lease for the Whitecaps which would allow a portion of the park to be used by the club while Delta residents were told that Premier Campbell and Liberal candidate Wally Oppal promised provincial funding during the 2009 election campaign.

The proposal was taken off the drawing board when Delta and the soccer club were unable to agree on how much community usage would be.

Delta Councillor chaired the Parks and Rec Commission (at that time) Robert Campbell mentioned “They really didn’t offer any community access and we were stuck with them offering times amassing to like six tournaments a year plus the Caps also wanted to build one artificial turf field where we required they build two.”

Fast forward to 2012, the Whitecaps and government announced BC would assist to complete “a world-class soccer development centre” at UBC while the Caps had also launched a soccer academy in partnership with the school district which also received a “Red Card.”

“Care should be made to ensure a comprehensive plan is followed for development,” the plan notes.

In recent conversation with some individuals at City Hall they mention that some of the Delta’ medium-term (2023-2027) wish list ideas at JO currently include improvements to the park such as additional fields, a fieldhouse capable of hosting community activities, additional parking and other improvements.

Estimated cost for all those projects at the site add up to $30 million and if you say it fast it’s not all that much given today’s market value of playing fields.

Before the earlier plan that went south with the Whitecaps, the city had earlier made an arrangement with the Ex-Britannia Rugby Association for the park which included restoring the John Oliver Bark which for many was a landmark plus developing new playing fields – neither of which happened!

Sadly for many the barn was deemed not feasible which created somewhat of a “firestorm” and eventually dismantled.

Fast forward to the July 28 Regular Council Meeting, Delta Council received reports on three major initiatives that will hopefully shape the future of parks, recreation and culture in the city, 

These include the John Oliver Park Master Plan, the new Parks, Recreation & Culture Master Plan, and the final Sports Field Needs Assessment report. 

Delta Mayor George V. Harvie mentioned ​“These are exciting projects that reflect our commitment to supporting a growing and active community.”

He continued “We want to thank park users and the sports organizations that have contributed to date and are looking forward to hearing from residents as we move ahead with long-term planning for our parks, programs, and sports facilities.” 

If you’ve got ideas contact Delta’s City Hall and come up with some new ideas which will shape the future of John Park.

The post Changes In The Plans For John Oliver Park? first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.

That’s not to take away from any previous performances but this match had everyone on the edge of their seats from the opening kick-off that saw 20,720 fans entertained.that keeps them close to first in the Western Conference.

The Caps got off to a quick jump showing tons of energy starting from Jayden Nelson who got involved early on with some dangerous runs and crosses.

If you ask how early it was in the seventh minute that saw J.C. Ngando came close to opening the scoring but only after Nelson see his shot go wide of the target.

Caps Brian White had a chance in the 16th minute only after Tristan Blackmon headed it back, having the volley narrowly missing the mark.

The following is the press release from the Whitecaps. 

Enjoy the read:

After poking and probing at SKC’s defence, the ‘Caps broke the deadlock in the 35th minute through Emmanuel Sabbi.

Ngando played it in behind Nelson, who cut it back with a great pass for Sabbi to slide and tap-in for the opener.

Shortly after, Nelson almost got a quick-fire second, running into the box and blasting a left-footed shot, but it just flew over the bar.

The ‘Caps did end up getting their second not long after, as Ngando picked up on a loose ball inside SKC’s box and placed his shot to double the lead.

Whitecaps FC almost began the second half with a bang, after Nelson’s curled effort was just tipped wide by SKC ‘keeper John Pulskamp.

White thought that he sealed the win for Whitecaps FC in the 68th minute, after Édier Ocampo squared it to him for a tap-in, but the goal was called back for offside.

Yohei Takaoka then came up massively minutes later, saving a point-blank shot from Logan Ndenbe, putting his body on the line to deny a great opportunity.

Nelson kept looking for his goal, and almost got it in the 85th minute after he latched onto a cut-back in the box, but his first time volley went just over the bar.

In the end, it was Mathías Laborda who got the killer third goal, off a corner.

A short corner from Berhalter saw Jeevan Badwal play a one-two with him before he crossed a terrific ball towards the back post where Laborda rose highest and angled his header down and into the back of the net.

Daniel Ríos nearly got a fourth after he was played into the box from the right by Nelson, but his shot was well-saved by Pulskamp.

In the end, the ‘Caps finished off a comfortable win as they stay within one point of first place in the conference after a massive result at home.

Whitecaps FC are back in action on Saturday, August 9 as they travel to California to face San Jose Earthquakes. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. PT.

The ‘Caps then travel to Hamilton, Ontario to face Forge FC in the semifinals of the TELUS Canadian Championship on Wednesday, August 13. Kickoff for that one is at 4 p.m. PT.

Finally, Whitecaps FC come back home to BC Place to host Houston Dynamo FC on Sunday, August 17 at 6 p.m. PT. For tickets, visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

The post Whitecaps Close In On Top Spot first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.

Impressive as it might seem it’s no  real surprise that possibly has to do with the change in coaching style along with a new technique brought to the system.

Last night’s match saw the Whitecaps earn a point after playing to a 0-0 draw against Austin FC in a match played at the Q2 Stadium which extended their unbeaten streak to 12 matches.

The following press release is from the Whitecaps!!

Whitecaps FC started the match defensively sharp, with Édier Ocampo making a smart goal-line clearance to deny Austin an early goal in the opening moments.

After an early Austin push, momentum swung back in ‘Caps favour as they began to control the match. Ocampo later went up the other side and nearly found the top corner after a volleyed effort inside the box, but his shot kept rising.

Brandon Vázquez had a great chance to open the scoring after a deflected free-kick found him alone in the box, but he was unable to get his feet sorted to get a proper shot on target.

‘Caps goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka came up clutch to deny Osman Bukari just before the half-hour mark, after the right winger headed a fierce effort on goal at the back post. 

The Blue and White kept battling Austin for supremacy throughout the rest of the first half, with both teams going into the break on level terms.

The second half saw Takaoka continue his solid performance as he rebuffed chances from Austin FC early on.

Later in the half, Sam Adekugbe crossed a dangerous ball towards the back post from the left side and nearly found Jayden Nelson, but it was cleared before the winger could rush onto the ball. From the following throw-in, 

Brian White jumped the highest and headed an effort on goal but Austin FC goalkeeper Brad Stuver was able to collect.

Sebastian Berhalter tried his luck a few minutes later, hitting a first-time shot from the edge of the box but flying it into the hands of Stuver.

With less than 10 minutes to go, Takaoka once again showed up to deny Bukari a brilliant chance on the edge of the box, pushing his shot wide of the goal. 

That would prove to be a key moment as the ‘Caps earned a valiant point away from home to keep their undefeated streak going.

Whitecaps FC are back in action as they travel to Winnipeg to face off against Valour FC on May 20 in the first leg of the quarterfinals of the TELUS Canadian Championship with the Kickoff from Princess Auto Stadium set for 5:30 p.m. PT. 

They then travel to Sandy, Utah to battle Real Salt Lake at 6:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, May 24 at America First Field.

The ‘Caps return home to BC Place on Wednesday, May 28 for a top of the West clash against Minnesota United FC. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. PT. For tickets, visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

MATCH DETAILS

Attendance: 20,738, Referee: Alexis Da Silva

Statistics

Possession: ATX 46.9% – VAN 53.1%, Shots: ATX 16 – VAN 5

Shots on Goal: ATX 5 – VAN 2, Saves: ATX 2 – VAN 5

Fouls: ATX 16 – VAN 12 Offsides: ATX 1 – VAN 2

Corners: ATX 10 – VAN 2

Cautions

39’ – VAN – Édier Ocampo

39’ – ATX – Guilherme Biro

68’ – ATX – Ilie Sánchez

76’ – ATX – Owen Wolff

The post Whitecaps Draw Against Austin FC first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.

Some were skeptical when the made a coaching change in the off-season but the change obviously paid dividends given not just the winning streak but with the players buying into the new system.

With changes come new additions to the roster considering that they signed Whitecaps FC 2 (WFC2) Liam Mackenzie (midfielder) and Mark O’Neill (defender) to short-term agreements for the match March 22nd against Chicago Fire FC.

This is the second time this season that see’s Mackenzie signed to an MLS short-term agreement, and his third overall after appearing in the July 27, 2024 International friendly against Wrexham AFC. 

This is the first time Mark O’Neill has been signed to an MLS short-term agreement after joining WFC2 in January.

About MacKenzie and O’Neill – Thanks to Whitecaps FC

Liam Mackenzie

Mackenzie, who turned 18 last Saturday, was on the bench the last two matches for Whitecaps FC – at CF Monterrey in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 on March 12 and at FC Dallas on March 15. 

Mackenzie also travelled with the first team for the first two away matches in February at Deportivo Saprissa and at Portland Timbers, as well as the entire preseason in Marbella, Spain.

To open the MLS NEXT Pro season with WFC2, Mackenzie recorded a goal, two assists, as well as a successful kick from the spot in the three-goal comeback shootout victory at LAFC2 on March 9. During the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season, 

Mackenzie started 14 of his 22 appearances, recording one goal and one assist as WFC2 made the playoffs for the first time.

The product of Comox, BC originally made his professional debut during the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro regular season campaign as an academy call-up, coming on as a substitute against St. Louis CITY SC on September 9, 2023. Mackenzie signed his first professional contract with WFC2 on April 9, 2024.

Coming through the Whitecaps FC BMO Academy, Mackenzie was selected to the 2024 MLS NEXT All-Star Game in Saint Paul, Minnesota, where he registered an assist on the opening goal of the match. 

Mackenzie first joined the Whitecaps FC BMO Academy as a 13-year-old in August 2020 after playing with Vancouver Island Wave in the EA SPORTS BC Soccer Premier League. 

During his time with the academy, the youngster captained both the U-15 and U-17 sides. 

He’s also been a recipient of several Whitecaps FC BMO Academy awards, including the 2022 U-15 Player of the Year award and Academy Best XI, and the 2023 U-17 Student Athlete award and Cornerstone award.

On the international stage, Mackenzie has represented Canada at the U-17 level, playing a year up when he began competing with the side. 

The midfielder started three of his five appearances at the 2023 Concacaf U-17 Championship, adding a goal and an assist as the team reached the semifinals of the tournament. 

Mackenzie was also an alternate for Canada at the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia.

Mark O’Neill

O’Neill, who also spent time with the first team in Marbella, Spain, as well as the first two games in February, started both WFC2 matches to open the MLS NEXT Pro season.

Prior to arriving in Vancouver in January, the 23-year-old played five seasons at the University of Creighton, captaining the Bluejays during his final three seasons. 

In total, the midfielder started 77 of his 83 appearances for the Bluejays, scoring 10 goals and recording 4 assists.

During his senior season, O’Neill was selected to the 2024 All-BIG EAST Second Team, following an All-BIG EAST Third Team selection in 2023.

In-between his collegiate seasons, O’Neill spent time playing for Vermont Green in USL League Two. In his youth, the product of Louisville, Colorado played for Real Colorado.

O’Neill has five siblings, including experienced former MLS defender Shane O’Neill.

TRANSACTIONS: On March 22, 2025, Whitecaps FC sign midfielder Liam Mackenzie and defender Mark O’Neill to an MLS short-term agreement.

Liam Mackenzie

Position: Midfielder,          Height: 5-11

Weight: 155 pounds,          Date of Birth: March 15, 2007 in Comox, BC

Hometown: Comox, BC,   Citizenship: Canada

Status: Domestic                Youth Clubs: Whitecaps FC BMO Academy, Vancouver Island Wave

Mark O’Neill

Position: Centre Back,        Height: 6-01

Weight: 185 pounds,           Date of Birth: March 8, 2002 in Boulder, Colorado

Hometown: Louisville     Citizenship: United States

Status: Domestic,             University: University of Creighton (2020-24)

Former Club: Vermont Green (USL League Two),   Youth Club: Real Colorado

In eight games over a 24 day span, 20 different players have earned at least one start as the ‘Caps advanced to the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals. 

It’s noted that 10 different players have found the back of the net noting that this weekend four players will be away on international duty including. 

The four are Ali Ahmed (Canada), Andrés Cubas (Paraguay), Pedro Vite (Ecuador), and Brian White (United States) while Sam Adekugbe and Ryan Gauld remain out due to injury.

They will slowly place Emmanuel Sabbi back into first team training which is a slow progression.

Thanks to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC for the press release. 

The post Whitecaps Perfect Through Four first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.

As dismayed as you might get, things have or seem to be fitting out extremely well given that for the first time in club history they are sitting with a record of 3 wins, 0 losses and 0 draws in club history.

In all competitions to date they are currently undefeated in their previous five matches (4W-0L-1D) noting that their 2025 MLS SuperDraft selection Tate Johnson managed to score his first career MLS goal in his MLS debut and first start.

Another first is that Mathías Laborda scored his first season goal (first at BC Place) while Pedro Vite recorded a goal contribution in each of the first three MLS matches of the season.

It was yet another successful night at BC Place, as Vancouver Whitecaps FC kept their perfect MLS record alive with a 2-0 win over Canadian rivals CF Montréal.

They had a few half-chances early in the opening part of the match that saw both Ali Ahmed and Brian White drive the attack but were forced to make some minor changes after Ryan Gauld, their Captain, was taken out after only 23 minutes. 

Enjoy the read from the Caps.

Mathías Laborda tried for the audacious just before the half-hour mark, going for a bicycle kick in the middle of Montréal’s box but his shot fell right into the hands of Jonathan Sirois.

The ‘Caps nearly caught a break minutes later, when an errant back pass from Montréal nearly bypassed Sirois and into the net, but it got cleared before it could cross the line. 

Whitecaps FC did take advantage of the ensuing corner, however, as after the delivery, some chaos in the box allowed Laborda to poke a shot past Sirois and give the ‘Caps the lead.

Whitecaps FC kept controlling the match all the way until Joe Dickerson blew for halftime, entering the break with an all-important lead.

The ‘Caps did not take long after the restart to double the advantage, thanks to Tate Johnson’s first ever Whitecaps FC goal in his MLS debut and first start. 

The move began when Pedro Vite found Ahmed in behind on the right. The Canadian then whipped a cross in for Johnson to hit first time, looping his shot into the net for 2-0.

Vite nearly made it 3-0 not long after, catching a bouncing ball sweetly with a half-volley and pushing Sirois into a full-stretch save. 

Vite forced another strong save from Sirois not long later, this time with the shot fizzing just above the floor.

Yohei Takaoka then came up with a massive save with less than 10 minutes to go, sticking out a leg at the last second after Prince Owusu tried to poke it past him right in front of the net.

Blackmon then turned hero right at the end when a ball was bouncing right by the goal line after hitting the framework, clearing the danger before it could turn into a goal.

In the end, another good performance from the ‘Caps saw them start the MLS season 3W-0L-0D for the first time in club history, and move to the top of the Western Conference. 

Whitecaps FC are back in action this coming Wednesday, March 12 as they travel to Mexico for the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 tie against CF Monterrey. 

Kickoff will be at 4:30 p.m. PT, live on OneSoccer, FuboTV, and TELUS channel 980.

The ‘Caps then travel to Texas to face FC Dallas on Saturday, March 15 at 5:30 p.m. PT before coming back home to BC Place to host Chicago Fire on Saturday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. PT. For tickets, visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

MATCH DETAILS

Attendance: 19,531

Referee: Joe Dickerson

Scoring Summary

32’ – VAN – Mathías Laborda

49’ – VAN – Tate Johnson (Ali Ahmed, Pedro Vite)

Statistics

Possession: VAN 54.5% – MTL 45.5%,   Shots: VAN 15 – MTL 10

Shots on Goal: VAN 7 – MTL 2,              Saves: VAN 2 – MTL 5

Fouls: VAN 11 – MTL 15,                        Offsides VAN 0 – MTL 1

Corners: VAN 8 – MTL 7

Cautions

39’ – MTL – Luca Petrasso

41’ – MTL – Brandan Crag

90’+4 – VAN – J.C. Ngando

The post Whitecaps Impressive Play Continues first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.

The growth for the most part (as we are told) is the overall cost for the Families especially if there are more than one young athlete in the Family.

We recently received the following press release and want to share.

Enjoy the read:

Canada Soccer has announced the 21-player squad, along with two alternates and five training players, selected by Head Coach Cindy Tye for the upcoming 2025 Concacaf Women’s U-20 Qualifiers. 

The tournament, set to take place from 20-25 February will determine the final six teams advancing to the 2025 Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship. ​ 

The 2025 Concacaf Women’s U-20 Qualifiers features 24 Concacaf Member Associations, divided into six groups of four teams. 

The first-place finisher in each group will advance to the 2025 Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship later this year, joining the pre-seeded top-ranked nations, the United States and Mexico. ​ 

 Canada will compete in Group E alongside Trinidad & Tobago, Bermuda, and Dominica, with all matches taking place at Ato Boldon Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

The team will first face Dominica on Wednesday, 21 February (15:00 ET / 12:00 PT), followed by Bermuda on Friday, 23 February (15:00 ET / 12:00 PT), and will conclude the group stage on Sunday, 25 February against Trinidad & Tobago (18:00 ET / 15:00 PT). 

“We are looking forward to getting this group together for the first time and assessing them in a tournament setting. It is a short runway to the first match, so we will have to adapt quickly and grow throughout the tournament. This is a talented group, and we are excited to get going.” ​​- Cindy Tye, Canada Soccer’s Women’s U-20 National Team Head Coach  Six players from Canada’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Colombia 2024 squad will return for the Concacaf Women’s U-20 Qualifiers, bringing valuable tournament experience to the group. At the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, Canada reached the knockout stage for the first time since 2014, before falling 2-1 to Spain in the Round of 16. Among the returning players is forward Annabelle Chukwu, who made history in Colombia by surpassing Christine Sinclair’s Canadian youth international goalscoring record. The 17-year-old now holds the record with 28 goals in just 34 matches from the U-15 to U-20 levels.  CANADA  GK – Olivia Busby // NDC Ontario ​GK – Sofia Cortes-Browne // Arizona State ​GK – Noelle Henning // NDC Ontario ​DF – Jadea Collin // University of Wisconsin–Madison ​DF – April Lantaigne // AFC Toronto ​DF – Inès Nourani // CF Montréal / NDC-CDN Québec ​DF – Iba Oching // University of Iowa ​DF – Janet Okeke // NC State University ​DF – Stephanie Schoeley // Providence College ​MF/DF – Sienna Gibson // University of British Columbia ​MF – Ava Greco // Ohio State University ​ ​MF – Jeneva Hernandez Gray // Sporting CP ​ ​MF – Ella Kettles // Arizona State University ​MF – Teegan Melenhorst // NDC Ontario ​MF – Juliette Perreault // CF Montréal / NDC-CDN Québec ​FW – Kierra Blundell // Arizona State University ​ ​FW – Annabelle Chukwu // University of Notre Dame ​FW – Natelle El Mokbel // CF Montréal / NDC-CDN Québec ​FW – Kaylee Hunter // AFC Toronto ​FW – Léa Larouche // Butler University ​FW – Keira Martin // Whitecaps FC / NDC-CDC British Columbia  Alternates: ​ ​MF – ​ Noelle Sather // University of South Florida ​FW – Emma Yee // University of Illinois  Training Players:  ​DF – Taylor Yablonski // University of Nebraska ​ ​MF – Liana Tarasco // CF Montreal / NDC-CDN Québec ​MF – Ashley Roberts // Boston College ​FW – Esther Brossard // Lehigh University ​ ​FW – Lael Hill // Orlando City Youth SC ​

The post U20 Women’s Soccer – The Journey Begins first appeared on SportsWave Broadcasting.