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San Antonio FC defeated North Texas SC 3-1 at Toyota Field in a closed-door preseason match on Saturday. Goals from Marcus Epps, Ollie Wright and Leo Torres sealed the victory for SAFC in the club’s first preseason match of 2021.

“I thought it was a good exercise for the guys as we continue to work on our team identity,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “I’m proud of the guys. We have a lot of work ahead, but we are excited about what’s coming. We are also incredibly proud of our academy players. This was the first opportunity for a lot of them against a professional team and they did very well.”

The match – which consisted of three 30-minute periods — got off to an even start with both sides fighting for a foothold in the opening half hour. Epps opened the scoring when he capitalized off a deflection from a corner kick, smashing the ball into the roof of the net from close range. SAFC doubled their lead in the second 30-minute period when Epps played a pass into the box that was flicked on by Justin Dhillon into the path of Wright who slid the ball past the keeper. After North Texas SC pulled one back, SAFC would round out the scoring in the third 30-minute period after a touch from Wright found Torres who fired the shot into the upper corner from 25 yards.

Along with a slew of first-team debuts, SAFC Pro Academy players Abraham Lincon, Rocky Perez, Fabrizio Bernal, Brad Dildy and Roman Holt also appeared in the match.

SAFC will now prepare to face FC Dallas next Saturday in the first match of the ‘La Copita’ preseason tournament.

SAFC Starting XI:

GK: Carlos Mercado

D: Ethan Bryant

D: Axel Sjoberg

D: Liam Doyle

D: Rocky Perez *

M: Marcus Epps

M: PC

M Cam Lindley

M: Emil Cuello

F: Justin Dhillon

F: Santiago Patino

 

Substitutes Used:

Leo Torres

Brad Dildy*

Chris Lema

Ollie Wright

Matthew Cardone

Fabrizio Bernal*

Roman Holt*

Abraham Lincon*

Trialist 1

Trialist 2

 

*SAFC Pro Academy Player

San Antonio FC defeated North Texas SC 3-1 at Toyota Field in a closed-door preseason match on Saturday. Goals from Marcus Epps, Ollie Wright and Leo Torres sealed the victory for SAFC in the club’s first preseason match of 2021.

“I thought it was a good exercise for the guys as we continue to work on our team identity,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “I’m proud of the guys. We have a lot of work ahead, but we are excited about what’s coming. We are also incredibly proud of our academy players. This was the first opportunity for a lot of them against a professional team and they did very well.”

The match – which consisted of three 30-minute periods — got off to an even start with both sides fighting for a foothold in the opening half hour. Epps opened the scoring when he capitalized off a deflection from a corner kick, smashing the ball into the roof of the net from close range. SAFC doubled their lead in the second 30-minute period when Epps played a pass into the box that was flicked on by Justin Dhillon into the path of Wright who slid the ball past the keeper. After North Texas SC pulled one back, SAFC would round out the scoring in the third 30-minute period after a touch from Wright found Torres who fired the shot into the upper corner from 25 yards.

Along with a slew of first-team debuts, SAFC Pro Academy players Abraham Lincon, Rocky Perez, Fabrizio Bernal, Brad Dildy and Roman Holt also appeared in the match.

SAFC will now prepare to face FC Dallas next Saturday in the first match of the ‘La Copita’ preseason tournament.

SAFC Starting XI:

GK: Carlos Mercado

D: Ethan Bryant

D: Axel Sjoberg

D: Liam Doyle

D: Rocky Perez *

M: Marcus Epps

M: PC

M Cam Lindley

M: Emil Cuello

F: Justin Dhillon

F: Santiago Patino

 

Substitutes Used:

Leo Torres

Brad Dildy*

Chris Lema

Ollie Wright

Matthew Cardone

Fabrizio Bernal*

Roman Holt*

Abraham Lincon*

Trialist 1

Trialist 2

 

*SAFC Pro Academy Player

San Antonio FC will play five preseason matches, including three as part of the first-ever ‘La Copita’ preseason tournament, in preparation for the start of the 2021 USL Championship regular season.

‘La Copita’ will consist of SAFC alongside the three Texas based MLS clubs – Houston Dynamo, FC Dallas, Austin FC – in a round-robin style tournament. San Antonio FC will play three total matches in the tournament, starting on March 27 vs. FC Dallas and followed by April 2 at FC Dallas and April 10 at Austin FC. Winning teams will receive the standard three points in the ‘La Copita’ standings, while any match that finishes in a draw will be settled by penalty kicks after 90 minutes.

In addition, SAFC will play two other matches to round out their 2021 preseason schedule. The Alamo City will first play North Texas SC of USL League One this weekend on March 20 before concluding their preseason slate with a home match against USL Championship rivals RGV FC on April 24.

All SAFC preseason matches in 2021 – both home and away — will be closed to the public. 

San Antonio FC Preseason Schedule (all times central):

Month	Date	Opponent	Location	Time
March	20	vs. North Texas SC	San Antonio, TX	3 p.m.
	27	vs. FC Dallas (La Copita)	San Antonio, TX	1 p.m.
April	2	at FC Dallas (La Copita)	Frisco, TX	11 a.m.
	10	at Austin FC (La Copita)	Austin, TX	3 p.m.
	24	vs. RGV FC Toros	San Antonio, TX	1 p.m.

San Antonio FC will play five preseason matches, including three as part of the first-ever ‘La Copita’ preseason tournament, in preparation for the start of the 2021 USL Championship regular season.

‘La Copita’ will consist of SAFC alongside the three Texas based MLS clubs – Houston Dynamo, FC Dallas, Austin FC – in a round-robin style tournament. San Antonio FC will play three total matches in the tournament, starting on March 27 vs. FC Dallas and followed by April 2 at FC Dallas and April 10 at Austin FC. Winning teams will receive the standard three points in the ‘La Copita’ standings, while any match that finishes in a draw will be settled by penalty kicks after 90 minutes.

In addition, SAFC will play two other matches to round out their 2021 preseason schedule. The Alamo City will first play North Texas SC of USL League One this weekend on March 20 before concluding their preseason slate with a home match against USL Championship rivals RGV FC on April 24.

All SAFC preseason matches in 2021 – both home and away — will be closed to the public. 

San Antonio FC Preseason Schedule (all times central):

Month	Date	Opponent	Location	Time
March	20	vs. North Texas SC	San Antonio, TX	3 p.m.
	27	vs. FC Dallas (La Copita)	San Antonio, TX	1 p.m.
April	2	at FC Dallas (La Copita)	Frisco, TX	11 a.m.
	10	at Austin FC (La Copita)	Austin, TX	3 p.m.
	24	vs. RGV FC Toros	San Antonio, TX	1 p.m.

San Antonio FC today announced that midfielder and SAFC Pro Academy product Leo Torres has signed a multi-year contract extension, pending league and federation approval. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.  

“As a staff, we are excited to continue to progress one of U.S. Soccer’s brightest young talents in Leo Torres,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We are thrilled to know that Leo and his support system have a strong belief in our environment, and value our work and commitment to personal and professional growth. We look forward to continuing to have Leo a part of our SAFC family.”

Torres originally signed his first professional contract with the club in February of 2019. Upon his signing, Torres became the first full-time SAFC Pro Academy player to sign with the first team and was the youngest professional signing in USL Championship history at the time — at 15 years, 23 days. The 17-year-old made his professional debut on May 14, 2019 in the U.S. Open Cup second round vs. the Laredo Heat, playing 14 minutes as a second-half substitute. Torres then made his USL Championship debut last season, playing in two matches over the course of 2020. Torres remains the youngest player to ever play in a professional match for San Antonio FC.

Torres joined the SAFC Pro Academy ahead of its 2016 inaugural year and was part of the initial squad that the program fielded (birth year 2004). Throughout his time with the SAFC Pro Academy, Torres has been called up to U.S. Youth National Team on two occasions, most recently representing the U-15 national team at the Torneo delle Nazioni in Italy in 2019.

"I'm happy to be here and I'm looking forward to continuing to work to earn playing time,” said Torres. “I am so grateful to the SAFC staff and coaches for the continued opportunity, and I look forward to repaying their faith. A lot of young players are being noticed in the USL and earning opportunities, so I think this is a perfect place  for me to develop and work towards my goals."

The San Antonio native is one of six SAFC Pro Academy products to have debuted professionally for the SAFC first team, in addition to Ethan Bryant, Jose Gallegos, Carson Price, Josh Ramsey and Fabrizio Bernal.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC today announced that midfielder and SAFC Pro Academy product Leo Torres has signed a multi-year contract extension, pending league and federation approval. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.  

“As a staff, we are excited to continue to progress one of U.S. Soccer’s brightest young talents in Leo Torres,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “We are thrilled to know that Leo and his support system have a strong belief in our environment, and value our work and commitment to personal and professional growth. We look forward to continuing to have Leo a part of our SAFC family.”

Torres originally signed his first professional contract with the club in February of 2019. Upon his signing, Torres became the first full-time SAFC Pro Academy player to sign with the first team and was the youngest professional signing in USL Championship history at the time — at 15 years, 23 days. The 17-year-old made his professional debut on May 14, 2019 in the U.S. Open Cup second round vs. the Laredo Heat, playing 14 minutes as a second-half substitute. Torres then made his USL Championship debut last season, playing in two matches over the course of 2020. Torres remains the youngest player to ever play in a professional match for San Antonio FC.

Torres joined the SAFC Pro Academy ahead of its 2016 inaugural year and was part of the initial squad that the program fielded (birth year 2004). Throughout his time with the SAFC Pro Academy, Torres has been called up to U.S. Youth National Team on two occasions, most recently representing the U-15 national team at the Torneo delle Nazioni in Italy in 2019.

“I’m happy to be here and I’m looking forward to continuing to work to earn playing time,” said Torres. “I am so grateful to the SAFC staff and coaches for the continued opportunity, and I look forward to repaying their faith. A lot of young players are being noticed in the USL and earning opportunities, so I think this is a perfect place  for me to develop and work towards my goals.”

The San Antonio native is one of six SAFC Pro Academy products to have debuted professionally for the SAFC first team, in addition to Ethan Bryant, Jose Gallegos, Carson Price, Josh Ramsey and Fabrizio Bernal.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

The USL Championship today announced its league alignment for the 2021 regular season. The league will feature 31 teams across four divisions and two conferences in the upcoming season, with the clubs set to embark on a 32-game regular-season schedule that will be conducted over 27 weeks.

As previously announced, the Championship’s regular season will begin on or about May 1st, while employing a flexible start date that allows clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th.

The four divisions are aligned across the country producing the Atlantic, Central, Mountain and Pacific Divisions. The Atlantic and Central Division will make up the Eastern Conference, while the Mountain and Pacific Divisions will make up the Western Conference.

The defending Eastern Conference Title-holder Tampa Bay Rowdies will enter the new season in the Atlantic Division, where they are joined by in-state rival Miami FC, 2020 Championship Playoffs clubs the Charleston Battery, Charlotte Independence, Hartford Athletic and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, and Loudoun United FC and the New York Red Bulls II.

Six-time Eastern Conference Finalist Louisville City FC leads the Central Division, where it is joined by local rival Indy Eleven and the trio of Atlanta United 2, Birmingham Legion FC, and Memphis 901 FC. Oklahoma rivals FC Tulsa and OKC Energy FC also join the Central Division, which is completed by Sporting Kansas City II.

Back-to-back Western Conference Finalist El Paso Locomotive FC leads the quartet of Texas clubs in the Mountain Division, with Austin Bold FC, Rio Grande Valley FC and San Antonio FC set to compete for the Copa Tejas throughout the campaign. The lone seven-team division is completed by Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, New Mexico United and Real Monarchs SLC.

Defending Western Conference Title-holder Phoenix Rising FC enters the campaign as part of the Pacific Division, where it will square off with the Championship’s five California-based clubs – the LA Galaxy II, newcomer Oakland Roots SC, Orange County SC, Sacramento Republic FC and San Diego Loyal SC. Las Vegas Lights FC and Tacoma Defiance complete the Pacific Division lineup.

2021 USL Championship Conference Alignment
Eastern Conference                                                 Western Conference
Atlantic Division                                                      Mountain Division
Charleston Battery                                                   Austin Bold FC
Charlotte Independence                                          Colorado Springs Switchbacks 
Hartford Athletic                                                      El Paso Locomotive FC
Loudoun United FC                                                  New Mexico United
Miami FC                                                                  Real Monarchs SLC
New York Red Bulls II                                              Rio Grande Valley FC
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC                                     San Antonio FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies

Central Division                                                       Pacific Division
Atlanta United 2                                                      LA Galaxy II
Birmingham Legion FC                                            Las Vegas Lights FC
FC Tulsa                                                                     Oakland Roots SC
Indy Eleven                                                               Orange County SC
Louisville City FC                                                      Phoenix Rising FC
Memphis 901 FC                                                      Sacramento Republic FC
OKC Energy FC                                                         San Diego Loyal SC
Sporting Kansas City II                                             Tacoma Defiance

During the regular season, each team will play its division opponents four times – twice home, twice away. In the Atlantic, Central and Pacific Divisions, the four remaining games will be played against regional or cross-conference opponents. In the Mountain Division, the remaining eight games will be played against regional or cross-conference opponents.

Stay tuned in the coming weeks for competition-related announcements on home openers for the 2021 USL Championship season, the 2021 ESPN national broadcast schedule, and the full 2021 regular season schedule.

The USL Championship today announced its league alignment for the 2021 regular season. The league will feature 31 teams across four divisions and two conferences in the upcoming season, with the clubs set to embark on a 32-game regular-season schedule that will be conducted over 27 weeks.

As previously announced, the Championship’s regular season will begin on or about May 1st, while employing a flexible start date that allows clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th.

The four divisions are aligned across the country producing the Atlantic, Central, Mountain and Pacific Divisions. The Atlantic and Central Division will make up the Eastern Conference, while the Mountain and Pacific Divisions will make up the Western Conference.

The defending Eastern Conference Title-holder Tampa Bay Rowdies will enter the new season in the Atlantic Division, where they are joined by in-state rival Miami FC, 2020 Championship Playoffs clubs the Charleston Battery, Charlotte Independence, Hartford Athletic and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, and Loudoun United FC and the New York Red Bulls II.

Six-time Eastern Conference Finalist Louisville City FC leads the Central Division, where it is joined by local rival Indy Eleven and the trio of Atlanta United 2, Birmingham Legion FC, and Memphis 901 FC. Oklahoma rivals FC Tulsa and OKC Energy FC also join the Central Division, which is completed by Sporting Kansas City II.

Back-to-back Western Conference Finalist El Paso Locomotive FC leads the quartet of Texas clubs in the Mountain Division, with Austin Bold FC, Rio Grande Valley FC and San Antonio FC set to compete for the Copa Tejas throughout the campaign. The lone seven-team division is completed by Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, New Mexico United and Real Monarchs SLC.

Defending Western Conference Title-holder Phoenix Rising FC enters the campaign as part of the Pacific Division, where it will square off with the Championship’s five California-based clubs – the LA Galaxy II, newcomer Oakland Roots SC, Orange County SC, Sacramento Republic FC and San Diego Loyal SC. Las Vegas Lights FC and Tacoma Defiance complete the Pacific Division lineup.

2021 USL Championship Conference Alignment
Eastern Conference                                                 Western Conference
Atlantic Division                                                      Mountain Division
Charleston Battery                                                   Austin Bold FC
Charlotte Independence                                          Colorado Springs Switchbacks 
Hartford Athletic                                                      El Paso Locomotive FC
Loudoun United FC                                                  New Mexico United
Miami FC                                                                  Real Monarchs SLC
New York Red Bulls II                                              Rio Grande Valley FC
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC                                     San Antonio FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies

Central Division                                                       Pacific Division
Atlanta United 2                                                      LA Galaxy II
Birmingham Legion FC                                            Las Vegas Lights FC
FC Tulsa                                                                     Oakland Roots SC
Indy Eleven                                                               Orange County SC
Louisville City FC                                                      Phoenix Rising FC
Memphis 901 FC                                                      Sacramento Republic FC
OKC Energy FC                                                         San Diego Loyal SC
Sporting Kansas City II                                             Tacoma Defiance

During the regular season, each team will play its division opponents four times – twice home, twice away. In the Atlantic, Central and Pacific Divisions, the four remaining games will be played against regional or cross-conference opponents. In the Mountain Division, the remaining eight games will be played against regional or cross-conference opponents.

Stay tuned in the coming weeks for competition-related announcements on home openers for the 2021 USL Championship season, the 2021 ESPN national broadcast schedule, and the full 2021 regular season schedule.

GOALKEEPERS

GOALKEEPERS

Matthew Cardone (37) – The San Antonio native returns for his sixth season with SAFC and is now the only active player who has been with the club since its 2016 inaugural season. Cardone started 11 matches in 2020, making 28 saves and allowing 11 goals in 990 minutes with a 71.8 percent save success rate. Overall in his SAFC career, Cardone has appeared in 80 matches in all competitions and remains the club’s all-time penalty save leader with five. Cardone also holds the joint record for saves in a single match for SAFC after he recorded nine saves at Swope Park Rangers on July 30, 2016. Prior to his time with SAFC, Cardone attended Trinity University and was part of the San Antonio Scorpions (NASL) in 2015. 

Matthew Cardone (37) – The San Antonio native returns for his sixth season with SAFC and is now the only active player who has been with the club since its 2016 inaugural season. Cardone started 11 matches in 2020, making 28 saves and allowing 11 goals in 990 minutes with a 71.8 percent save success rate. Overall in his SAFC career, Cardone has appeared in 80 matches in all competitions and remains the club’s all-time penalty save leader with five. Cardone also holds the joint record for saves in a single match for SAFC after he recorded nine saves at Swope Park Rangers on July 30, 2016. Prior to his time with SAFC, Cardone attended Trinity University and was part of the San Antonio Scorpions (NASL) in 2015. 

Carlos Mercado (99) – Mercado returns after earning his first professional contract in 2020 following impressive performances in training during the SAFC preseason. The Laredo, TX native featured in 11 match-day squads including the final 10 last season after joining the club from the University of the Incarnate Word. Mercado is a product of the FC Dallas (MLS) academy, while the goalkeeper also played with USL League Two clubs Des Moines Menace and Corpus Christi FC, as well as the Laredo Heat (NPSL). 

Carlos Mercado (99) – Mercado returns after earning his first professional contract in 2020 following impressive performances in training during the SAFC preseason. The Laredo, TX native featured in 11 match-day squads including the final 10 last season after joining the club from the University of the Incarnate Word. Mercado is a product of the FC Dallas (MLS) academy, while the goalkeeper also played with USL League Two clubs Des Moines Menace and Corpus Christi FC, as well as the Laredo Heat (NPSL). 

Liam Doyle (5) – Doyle returns to SAFC after joining the club in late September last season. The defender’s lone appearance for the club came as a starter in their USL Championship Playoffs match against New Mexico United at Toyota Field. Prior to joining SAFC, Doyle spent the 2019 season with Memphis 901, where he recorded 42 clearances, nine interceptions and six blocks. The Isle of Man native brings plenty of experience to the squad with 116 matches of USL Championship experience under his belt. Doyle was originally drafted by DC United (MLS) in the 2016 SuperDraft and has represented his country on the international stage 16 times.  

Liam Doyle (5) – Doyle returns to SAFC after joining the club in late September last season. The defender’s lone appearance for the club came as a starter in their USL Championship Playoffs match against New Mexico United at Toyota Field. Prior to joining SAFC, Doyle spent the 2019 season with Memphis 901, where he recorded 42 clearances, nine interceptions and six blocks. The Isle of Man native brings plenty of experience to the squad with 116 matches of USL Championship experience under his belt. Doyle was originally drafted by DC United (MLS) in the 2016 SuperDraft and has represented his country on the international stage 16 times.  

Connor Maloney (31) – Maloney returns to SAFC after starting 15 of the club’s 16 matches in 2020, compiling a team-high 45 tackles and 35 interceptions while helping to lead the SAFC defense to conceding the fourth-fewest goals in the league, a top finish in Group D, and a playoff berth. The Pennsylvania native originally joined SAFC from Columbus Crew SC (MLS) where he played from 2017-2019. Maloney also spent time on loan with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL Championship) in 2017 and 2018. 

Connor Maloney (31) – Maloney returns to SAFC after starting 15 of the club’s 16 matches in 2020, compiling a team-high 45 tackles and 35 interceptions while helping to lead the SAFC defense to conceding the fourth-fewest goals in the league, a top finish in Group D, and a playoff berth. The Pennsylvania native originally joined SAFC from Columbus Crew SC (MLS) where he played from 2017-2019. Maloney also spent time on loan with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL Championship) in 2017 and 2018. 

Axel Sjöberg (44) – Sjöberg returns to SAFC after initially joining the club on loan from the Columbus Crew (MLS) prior to the start of the 2020 season. The defender was recalled last year following the suspension of play due to COVID-19 and was subsequently traded to DC United, where he made two appearances. Prior to 2020, Sjöberg spent the previous five seasons (2015-19) with the Colorado Rapids in MLS, where he made 92 appearances. In 2016, Sjöberg was named to the MLS Best XI. 

Axel Sjöberg (44) – Sjöberg returns to SAFC after initially joining the club on loan from the Columbus Crew (MLS) prior to the start of the 2020 season. The defender was recalled last year following the suspension of play due to COVID-19 and was subsequently traded to DC United, where he made two appearances. Prior to 2020, Sjöberg spent the previous five seasons (2015-19) with the Colorado Rapids in MLS, where he made 92 appearances. In 2016, Sjöberg was named to the MLS Best XI. 

MIDFIELDERS

MIDFIELDERS

Chris Lema (4) – Lema joins SAFC from the New York Red Bulls, where he signed an MLS contract in January following three impressive seasons with the club’s USL Championship affiliate New York Red Bulls II, where he tallied six goals, 13 assists, 161 tackles, 358 duels won and 96 interceptions in 75 matches. Lema’s most impressive season came in 2019 when he led the league with 94 chances created while adding five goals, six assists, 68 tackles, 173 duels won and 34 interceptions in 34 appearances, earning a spot in the USL Championship All-League Second Team. 

Chris Lema (4) – Lema joins SAFC from the New York Red Bulls, where he signed an MLS contract in January following three impressive seasons with the club’s USL Championship affiliate New York Red Bulls II, where he tallied six goals, 13 assists, 161 tackles, 358 duels won and 96 interceptions in 75 matches. Lema’s most impressive season came in 2019 when he led the league with 94 chances created while adding five goals, six assists, 68 tackles, 173 duels won and 34 interceptions in 34 appearances, earning a spot in the USL Championship All-League Second Team. 

 PC (6) – PC returns for his second season with the club after proving to be an integral part of the roster in 2020, appearing in 14 of the club’s 16 regular season games while recording a goal, two assists, and leading the team with 23 key passes while ranking second in tackles (39). The Brazilian added an 81.6 percent passing accuracy along with 16 shots. Prior to joining SAFC, PC spent the 2017-19 seasons in Major League Soccer, making 30 appearances with Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Orlando City SC, respectively. The midfielder also made 45 appearances for the Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL) prior to being sold to the Tampa Bay Rowdies (NASL) in 2016. PC is a youth product of the famous Corinthians academy in his native Brazil. 

 PC (6) – PC returns for his second season with the club after proving to be an integral part of the roster in 2020, appearing in 14 of the club’s 16 regular season games while recording a goal, two assists, and leading the team with 23 key passes while ranking second in tackles (39). The Brazilian added an 81.6 percent passing accuracy along with 16 shots. Prior to joining SAFC, PC spent the 2017-19 seasons in Major League Soccer, making 30 appearances with Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Orlando City SC, respectively. The midfielder also made 45 appearances for the Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL) prior to being sold to the Tampa Bay Rowdies (NASL) in 2016. PC is a youth product of the famous Corinthians academy in his native Brazil. 

Cam Lindley (8) – Lindley joins SAFC after spending the 2020 season with Indy Eleven, where he made 12 appearances while recording 11 chances created, 15 tackles, and 10 interceptions. Overall, the Indiana native has appeared in 38 USL Championship matches in his career with Indy, Memphis 901 FC, and the now-defunct Saint Louis FC. Prior to that, Lindley was originally signed by Orlando City SC (MLS) and made his debut with the club in 2018. Lindley attended college at North Carolina, where he made 43 appearances overall and garnered ACC Midfielder of the Year honors along with a First Team All-ACC inclusion following his sophomore season. 

Cam Lindley (8) – Lindley joins SAFC after spending the 2020 season with Indy Eleven, where he made 12 appearances while recording 11 chances created, 15 tackles, and 10 interceptions. Overall, the Indiana native has appeared in 38 USL Championship matches in his career with Indy, Memphis 901 FC, and the now-defunct Saint Louis FC. Prior to that, Lindley was originally signed by Orlando City SC (MLS) and made his debut with the club in 2018. Lindley attended college at North Carolina, where he made 43 appearances overall and garnered ACC Midfielder of the Year honors along with a First Team All-ACC inclusion following his sophomore season. 

Emil Cuello (10) – Cuello joins San Antonio from the LA Galaxy (MLS), where he made 24 appearances since 2019. The Argentina native spent time with the LA Galaxy II in 2019, where he created 16 chances in six appearances. Cuello returns to Texas after attending college at Southern Methodist University from 2015-18, where he scored 12 goals in 72 appearances and earned honors including AAC All-Rookie Team, AAC Most Outstanding Offensive Player, AAC First-Team All American and MVP of the 2018 AAC tournament. Cuello also played for the Ocean City Nor’easters in USL League Two in 2016. 

Emil Cuello (10) – Cuello joins San Antonio from the LA Galaxy (MLS), where he made 24 appearances since 2019. The Argentina native spent time with the LA Galaxy II in 2019, where he created 16 chances in six appearances. Cuello returns to Texas after attending college at Southern Methodist University from 2015-18, where he scored 12 goals in 72 appearances and earned honors including AAC All-Rookie Team, AAC Most Outstanding Offensive Player, AAC First-Team All American and MVP of the 2018 AAC tournament. Cuello also played for the Ocean City Nor’easters in USL League Two in 2016. 

Ollie Wright (14) – Wright joins SAFC ahead of his first season as a professional after playing his collegiate soccer at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. The England native was named co-Male Athlete of the Year at St. Mary’s following his junior season, where he recorded eight goals and 12 assists while leading the Rattlers to their first NCAA tournament in team history. Wright was also named Lone Star Conference Player of the Year as well as D2CCA South Central Region Player of the Year that season. Overall the midfielder scored 13 goals while tallying 20 assists for the Rattlers. Wright also spent the 2019 season with USL League Two side Corpus Christi FC, where he led the team with seven goals and 15 assists. Back in England, he spent time in strong English academies including Fulham and Brentford. 

Ollie Wright (14) – Wright joins SAFC ahead of his first season as a professional after playing his collegiate soccer at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. The England native was named co-Male Athlete of the Year at St. Mary’s following his junior season, where he recorded eight goals and 12 assists while leading the Rattlers to their first NCAA tournament in team history. Wright was also named Lone Star Conference Player of the Year as well as D2CCA South Central Region Player of the Year that season. Overall the midfielder scored 13 goals while tallying 20 assists for the Rattlers. Wright also spent the 2019 season with USL League Two side Corpus Christi FC, where he led the team with seven goals and 15 assists. Back in England, he spent time in strong English academies including Fulham and Brentford. 

Jose Gallegos (17) – The San Antonio native returns after becoming a key member of the 2020 roster, appearing in all 16 regular season games while recording two goals, three assists, and 23 chances created. The SAFC Pro Academy ETP product was named a finalist for the league’s Young Player of the Year award following the conclusion of the season. Gallegos also led Central Catholic to its fourth consecutive TAPPS Division 1 State Championship. 

Jose Gallegos (17) – The San Antonio native returns after becoming a key member of the 2020 roster, appearing in all 16 regular season games while recording two goals, three assists, and 23 chances created. The SAFC Pro Academy ETP product was named a finalist for the league’s Young Player of the Year award following the conclusion of the season. Gallegos also led Central Catholic to its fourth consecutive TAPPS Division 1 State Championship. 

Ethan Bryant (18) – San Antonio native Ethan Bryant returns after joining SAFC late last season following his move to KSV Roeselare in the Belgium second division in 2019. In his first two seasons with San Antonio, Bryant appeared in 16 league matches. Bryant is the second-youngest player to debut for the club after making his first appearance at age 16 and was the first player to join the first team from the SAFC Pro Academy Elite Training Program back in 2018. 

Ethan Bryant (18) – San Antonio native Ethan Bryant returns after joining SAFC late last season following his move to KSV Roeselare in the Belgium second division in 2019. In his first two seasons with San Antonio, Bryant appeared in 16 league matches. Bryant is the second-youngest player to debut for the club after making his first appearance at age 16 and was the first player to join the first team from the SAFC Pro Academy Elite Training Program back in 2018. 

Marcus Epps (20) – Epps joins SAFC after spending the 2020 season with the Portland Timbers 2, where he tallied four goals, 13 key passes and 97 duels won in 13 matches played. Prior to his time with Timbers 2, Epps played for the New York Red Bulls and Philadelphia Union in MLS as well as Memphis 901 FC in the USL Championship. The Jackson, Mississippi native attended the University of South Florida from 2013-16 while also playing for the Chicago Fire U-23 side in USL League Two in the 2014 and 2015 seasons. 

Marcus Epps (20) – Epps joins SAFC after spending the 2020 season with the Portland Timbers 2, where he tallied four goals, 13 key passes and 97 duels won in 13 matches played. Prior to his time with Timbers 2, Epps played for the New York Red Bulls and Philadelphia Union in MLS as well as Memphis 901 FC in the USL Championship. The Jackson, Mississippi native attended the University of South Florida from 2013-16 while also playing for the Chicago Fire U-23 side in USL League Two in the 2014 and 2015 seasons. 

Leo Torres (21) – Another local boy, Torres returns to SAFC after making his USL Championship debut in 2020 and playing in two matches after previously featuring for the club in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2019. Torres is the first player to have gone through the full SAFC Pro Academy ranks, starting with the academy in its inaugural U-12 squad and working his way up the system and into the first team. Torres has also featured for the U.S. Youth National Team. 

Leo Torres (21) – Another local boy, Torres returns to SAFC after making his USL Championship debut in 2020 and playing in two matches after previously featuring for the club in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2019. Torres is the first player to have gone through the full SAFC Pro Academy ranks, starting with the academy in its inaugural U-12 squad and working his way up the system and into the first team. Torres has also featured for the U.S. Youth National Team. 

FORWARDS

FORWARDS

Santiago Patiño (9) – Patiño joins SAFC after spending the 2019 and 2020 seasons with Orlando City SC (MLS). Last season, the Colombia native made four appearances for Orlando before being loaned to Cimarrones de Sonora in Mexico, where he played 11 matches. Overall, the forward has recorded two goals and one assist in 13 appearances for Orlando. Prior to his time in Florida, Patiño spent time with USL League Two sides SIMA Aguilas and Seattle Sounders U-23, where he scored 13 goals in 21 matches. 

Santiago Patiño (9) – Patiño joins SAFC after spending the 2019 and 2020 seasons with Orlando City SC (MLS). Last season, the Colombia native made four appearances for Orlando before being loaned to Cimarrones de Sonora in Mexico, where he played 11 matches. Overall, the forward has recorded two goals and one assist in 13 appearances for Orlando. Prior to his time in Florida, Patiño spent time with USL League Two sides SIMA Aguilas and Seattle Sounders U-23, where he scored 13 goals in 21 matches. 

Justin Dhillon (11) – Dhillon joins SAFC from the Seattle Sounders (MLS) where he spent the 2020 season. The forward had been in the Sounders system since 2019, appearing for the first team as part of their MLS Cup Champion squad while also featuring for Tacoma Defiance in the USL Championship. In 2019, he compiled 12 goals, two assists, and 13 key passes in 25 games for Tacoma, including scoring the joint-fastest goal in league history that season, which would eventually be tied by SAFC forward Luis Solignac in 2020. Prior to his time with the Sounders, Dhillon was a member of the LA Galaxy II from 2018-19, where he scored nine goals in 39 appearances. 

Justin Dhillon (11) – Dhillon joins SAFC from the Seattle Sounders (MLS) where he spent the 2020 season. The forward had been in the Sounders system since 2019, appearing for the first team as part of their MLS Cup Champion squad while also featuring for Tacoma Defiance in the USL Championship. In 2019, he compiled 12 goals, two assists, and 13 key passes in 25 games for Tacoma, including scoring the joint-fastest goal in league history that season, which would eventually be tied by SAFC forward Luis Solignac in 2020. Prior to his time with the Sounders, Dhillon was a member of the LA Galaxy II from 2018-19, where he scored nine goals in 39 appearances. 

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder Marcus Epps for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We are excited to welcome Marcus Epps to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Marcus is a dynamic attacking talent who is among the league leaders in one vs. one attacking duals. He demonstrates a strong work ethic, is committed to growth as a player, and brings MLS experience to the team. Marcus possesses game-changing abilities coupled with the dedication to all pressing actions.”

Epps comes to San Antonio after spending the 2020 season with the Portland Timbers 2. In 13 matches last year, Epps recorded four goals, 13 key passes and 97 duels won in 1,120 minutes. Prior to his time with Timbers 2, Epps played for the New York Red Bulls (MLS) in 2019 where he made three appearances before loan stints with both Red Bulls II and Memphis 901 FC. In 33 USL Championship games in 2019, Epps compiled 2,526 minutes while adding five goals, four assists, 40 key passes and 228 duels won.

Originally drafted 25th overall by the Philadelphia Union in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, Epps spent the first two seasons of his career with the Union and the Union’s USL Championship affiliate. Overall in his professional career, the 25-year-old has appeared in over 100 matches between MLS and USL, compiling 7,000-plus minutes and adding 15-plus goals.

“I am very happy with my decision to join an organization like San Antonio FC,” said Epps. “They do a wonderful job of providing a professional environment and competitive culture for players to develop and excel. I look forward to building on the success of previous years, as well as producing a successful 2021 season. I cannot wait to join the staff and my teammates and get to work.”

Epps attended the University of South Florida, making 75 appearances for the Bulls from 2013-16 while adding eight goals and nine assists. While in college, the midfielder also played for the Chicago Fire U-23 side in USL League Two during the 2014 and 2015 seasons.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC has signed midfielder Marcus Epps for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We are excited to welcome Marcus Epps to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Marcus is a dynamic attacking talent who is among the league leaders in one vs. one attacking duals. He demonstrates a strong work ethic, is committed to growth as a player, and brings MLS experience to the team. Marcus possesses game-changing abilities coupled with the dedication to all pressing actions.”

Epps comes to San Antonio after spending the 2020 season with the Portland Timbers 2. In 13 matches last year, Epps recorded four goals, 13 key passes and 97 duels won in 1,120 minutes. Prior to his time with Timbers 2, Epps played for the New York Red Bulls (MLS) in 2019 where he made three appearances before loan stints with both Red Bulls II and Memphis 901 FC. In 33 USL Championship games in 2019, Epps compiled 2,526 minutes while adding five goals, four assists, 40 key passes and 228 duels won.

Originally drafted 25th overall by the Philadelphia Union in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, Epps spent the first two seasons of his career with the Union and the Union’s USL Championship affiliate. Overall in his professional career, the 25-year-old has appeared in over 100 matches between MLS and USL, compiling 7,000-plus minutes and adding 15-plus goals.

“I am very happy with my decision to join an organization like San Antonio FC,” said Epps. “They do a wonderful job of providing a professional environment and competitive culture for players to develop and excel. I look forward to building on the success of previous years, as well as producing a successful 2021 season. I cannot wait to join the staff and my teammates and get to work.”

Epps attended the University of South Florida, making 75 appearances for the Bulls from 2013-16 while adding eight goals and nine assists. While in college, the midfielder also played for the Chicago Fire U-23 side in USL League Two during the 2014 and 2015 seasons.

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

The USL Championship announced on Thursday following the league’s Board of Governors meeting that the 2021 regular season will begin on or about May 1, see the teams split in to four divisions, and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November.

In voting for a flexible start date, the Governors have approved for clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th. Further announcements on scheduling, divisional alignment and playoff structure will be made in the coming months and the league will continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 crises in the event that alterations to the format need to be made. 

The USL Championship announced on Thursday following the league’s Board of Governors meeting that the 2021 regular season will begin on or about May 1, see the teams split in to four divisions, and will contain a 32-game slate running across 27 weeks through the end of October with playoffs scheduled for November.

In voting for a flexible start date, the Governors have approved for clubs to begin play anywhere between April 24th and May 15th. Further announcements on scheduling, divisional alignment and playoff structure will be made in the coming months and the league will continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 crises in the event that alterations to the format need to be made. 

San Antonio FC has signed defender Axel Sjöberg for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are delighted to welcome Axel back to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Axel brings extensive MLS experience, which includes an MLS defender of the year nomination. He is a natural leader, a great on-field communicator, and an asset on set plays. We are confident Axel will have an impactful season and will play a notable role in driving our team culture standards.”

Sjöberg returns to San Antonio after initially joining the club on loan from the Columbus Crew prior to the start of the 2020 season. The defender started the first game of 2020 for SAFC, playing 90 minutes in a 1-0 win over Real Monarchs SLC. Following the suspension of play due to COVID-19, Sjöberg returned to Columbus and was subsequently traded to DC United where he made two appearances during the remainder of the season.

Prior to 2020, Sjöberg spent the previous five seasons from 2015-19 with the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. While with the Rapids, the 29-year-old made 92 appearances, compiling 7,827 minutes played while scoring three goals. His most successful season came in 2016 when he was named to the MLS Best XI after starting 35 matches between the regular season and playoffs, totaling 3,162 minutes played. The defender helped lead the Rapids to a record-setting 0.41 goals against average at home after conceding just seven in Denver that season. Following the 2019 season, Sjöberg was signed by the Columbus Crew off waivers.

“My girlfriend and I are very excited to be back in San Antonio,” said Sjöberg. “While we have a lot of hard work ahead of us, I believe last year was just a taste of what the team is capable of, and I cant wait to join the group and contribute for a full season this time around.”

Originally drafted 14th overall by the Rapids in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, Sjöberg attended college at Marquette where he made 63 appearances from 2011-14. The Sweden native played youth soccer in his native country with Helenelunds IK and Djurgårdens IF between 1995 and 2009. While in college, Sjöberg also made 49 combined appearances with USL League Two Clubs Sollentuna United FF and the Thunder Bay Chill.  

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).

San Antonio FC has signed defender Axel Sjöberg for the 2021 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval, the team announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“As a staff, we are delighted to welcome Axel back to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Axel brings extensive MLS experience, which includes an MLS defender of the year nomination. He is a natural leader, a great on-field communicator, and an asset on set plays. We are confident Axel will have an impactful season and will play a notable role in driving our team culture standards.”

Sjöberg returns to San Antonio after initially joining the club on loan from the Columbus Crew prior to the start of the 2020 season. The defender started the first game of 2020 for SAFC, playing 90 minutes in a 1-0 win over Real Monarchs SLC. Following the suspension of play due to COVID-19, Sjöberg returned to Columbus and was subsequently traded to DC United where he made two appearances during the remainder of the season.

Prior to 2020, Sjöberg spent the previous five seasons from 2015-19 with the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. While with the Rapids, the 29-year-old made 92 appearances, compiling 7,827 minutes played while scoring three goals. His most successful season came in 2016 when he was named to the MLS Best XI after starting 35 matches between the regular season and playoffs, totaling 3,162 minutes played. The defender helped lead the Rapids to a record-setting 0.41 goals against average at home after conceding just seven in Denver that season. Following the 2019 season, Sjöberg was signed by the Columbus Crew off waivers.

“My girlfriend and I are very excited to be back in San Antonio,” said Sjöberg. “While we have a lot of hard work ahead of us, I believe last year was just a taste of what the team is capable of, and I cant wait to join the group and contribute for a full season this time around.”

Originally drafted 14th overall by the Rapids in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, Sjöberg attended college at Marquette where he made 63 appearances from 2011-14. The Sweden native played youth soccer in his native country with Helenelunds IK and Djurgårdens IF between 1995 and 2009. While in college, Sjöberg also made 49 combined appearances with USL League Two Clubs Sollentuna United FF and the Thunder Bay Chill.  

San Antonio FC is currently preparing for the upcoming USL Championship season, and fans can purchase 2021 season tickets by calling or texting the SAFC sales office at 210-444-5657 or by visiting www.sanantoniofc.com. Supporters can also follow the club by liking San Antonio FC on Facebook (@SAFCUSL), as well as following the team on Twitter (@SanAntonioFC) and Instagram (@sanantoniofc).