In soccer it’s not always a massive victory that can jumpstart a season. And while the Five Stripes couldn’t come back from the three-goal deficit from the first leg, Wednesday night’s strong 1-0 win over Rayados felt like the start of something truly special: a return to the dynamic, electric side that they’re aspiring to be, and the catalyst for what is to come.
Head coach Frank de Boer made clear tweaks to the tactical strategy, but kept largely the same lineup from this weekend’s draw. Jeff Larentowicz slotted into the back line in place of the suspended Leandro González Pirez, while Mikey Ambrose came in for Brek Shea on the left wing.