The MLS Is Back !!

[Red CB Toronto]

https://scontent.fybz2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/102923625_3546852225331256_917631054519048662_n.jp g?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=b96e70&_nc_ohc=Lr_G9g5JzRwAX-8QS0L&_nc_ht=scontent.fybz2-2.fna&oh=969b0c8a771beb8f728d406424027335&oe=5F0726B5

https://scontent.fybz2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.15752-9/103161153_3220961284620855_6552517961663828168_n.j pg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_sid=b96e70&_nc_ohc=56zSBJd3YWUAX8PabOg&_nc_ht=scontent.fybz2-1.fna&oh=8fc0dc45c3a5b8ee06c95225be94159f&oe=5F04C800

[Red CB Toronto]

KEY DATES
June 24: Teams begin arriving in Florida
July 8: MLS is Back Tournament group stage begins
July 25-28: Round-of-16
July 30- Aug. 1: Quarterfinals
August 5-6: Semifinals
August 11: MLS is Back Tournament Final
MLS IS BACK TOURNAMENT – July 8 – August 11
Number of Matches: 54 (39 group; 15 knockout)
No. of matchdays: 26
Format: Group Stage, followed by Round-of-16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals &
Championship match
Minimum Matches: 3 (per club)
Maximum Matches: 7 (per club)

[GerMc]

TFC will be one of the top seeds, based on the 2019 playoff performance:

For the MLS is Back Tournament, the 26 MLS teams will be drawn into one of six groups during a live draw that will take place tomorrow, Thursday, June 11 at 3:30 p.m. EDT. For the remainder of the 2020 MLS season, Nashville SC will be moved to the Eastern Conference. The Eastern Conference will have three groups, one consisting of six teams and two consisting of four teams each. The Western Conference will have three groups, each consisting of four teams.

As the host club, Orlando City SC will be given the top seed in Group A, which will be the six-team group, and will play in the first match on July 8. The five remaining seeds will consist of the four semifinalists from the 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs – Atlanta United, Los Angeles Football Club, Seattle Sounders FC, Toronto FC – and Real Salt Lake (the team with the next highest points total in the Western Conference from the 2019 season). The seeded teams will be drawn into their respective groups first and then the remaining 20 clubs will be drawn and distributed across the conference-based groups.

[Red CB Toronto]

Can't wait to see Achara build on his debut performance, oh wait five months will have passed since then by the time the Reds kickoff. Will be great to see.

https://mlsmultiplex.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2016/04/1205709313.jpeg

[Joe Kool]

"Similar to a FIFA World Cup, the tournament will feature a continuous schedule of matches nearly every day with matches kicking off at 9 am, 8 pm and 10:30 pm EDT."

10:30 PM kickoff for the players will be a new experience as well as the 9 AM starts.

[James17930]

To avoid the midday heat. Smart.

Anyone know how that 6 team group is going to work?

[OgtheDim]

https://www.mlssoccer.com/mls-is-back-tournament

[metaxa]

Any idea on what happens with season ticket holders money spent for the season?

[OgtheDim]

Any idea on what happens with season ticket holders money spent for the season?

No word yet but membership twitter account indicated information about something will be out soon - may not be about that.

If I see anything, I'll post it in the "the season is over" thread as that was started by somebody with this concern.

[OgtheDim]

This is.....interesting


https://twitter.com/jeffrueter/status/1270704765681504257

Seems all the old rules are out.

Win this, we get CCL.

[OgtheDim]

https://twitter.com/MLeach680News/status/1270781638507708418

[jabbronies]

https://twitter.com/MLeach680News/status/1270781638507708418

probably private MLSE jet taking off from downsview?

[Ben - D.O.W.]

Any idea on what happens with season ticket holders money spent for the season?

MLSE just sent this out with an email announcing the Florida tournament:

Please look for a follow-up communication from TFC's ticketing department tomorrow with details relating to your membership as we continue to work through the impact on the 2020 MLS schedule.

[Auzzy]

I really don’t understand how that one 6-team group is supposed to work.

[ensco]

probably private MLSE jet taking off from downsview?

Essential travel is allowed. Definition includes people connecting, visiting relatives. The strength of the border closing is being overdramatized. There are actually something like 10 flights a day to the US from Toronto.

I am going to have trouble getting excited about this. But sure, I will watch the TFC games.

[spe18]

I really don’t understand how that one 6-team group is supposed to work.

I think I saw somewhere that the group with 6 teams will only be playing 3 of the teams in that group.

[James17930]

I think I saw somewhere that the group with 6 teams will only be playing 3 of the teams in that group.

Or maybe 2 teams in the group are seeded, and the other 4 play like 'Wild Card' games first to knock two teams out right away.

They could be Miami, Nashville, and the 2 worst teams from last year.

[Red CB Toronto]

It's the spot that was suppose to go to the Supporters Shield. The USSF compromised on this, the other three spots are still allocated to US teams.


This is.....interesting


https://twitter.com/jeffrueter/status/1270704765681504257

Seems all the old rules are out.

Win this, we get CCL.

[Auzzy]

It's the spot that was suppose to go to the Supporters Shield. The USSF compromised on this, the other three spots are still allocated to US teams.

No, the Supporters Shield winner still gets that spot. This spot used to go to the regular-season winner of the other conference.

[Red CB Toronto]

No, the Supporters Shield winner still gets that spot. This spot used to go to the regular-season winner of the other conference.

Ok, thanks for the clarification.

[OgtheDim]

There have been rumours since February that CCL is expanding.

[jabbronies]

Essential travel is allowed. Definition includes people connecting, visiting relatives. The strength of the border closing is being overdramatized. There are actually something like 10 flights a day to the US from Toronto.

Yup - I still still see them taking off from Downsview on a private charter. I don't see MLS having an issue with that.



I am going to have trouble getting excited about this. But sure, I will watch the TFC games.

it'll be interesting for sure. Everyone is kinda like "Meh" right now, but I think the compacted tournament style will help build that excitement up. Maybe by the 3rd game you'll get a better sense of how fun/shitty it is.

My fear is that if it's too fun - MLS will try and do it more often.

[Richard]

There have been rumours since February that CCL is expanding.

Why? So we can play more teams from a banana republic?

So does the winner of the tourney get a star on the jersey?

[Mike_S]

To avoid the midday heat. Smart.

Anyone know how that 6 team group is going to work?

I've been searching for that answer since it was announced. But knowing MLS...they don't know either. :-D

[Red CB Toronto]

Wonder if we will see the five subs for this tournament? Similar to what is currently happening in Germany.

[Auzzy]

Wonder if we will see the five subs for this tournament? Similar to what is currently happening in Germany.

Yup it's mentioned in the announcement. 5 subs. 23 (or 24) players in the gameday lineup (I've seen both #'s mentioned.)

5 subs is good, especially considering the Florida heat & humidity. (Even in the morning & evenings it will likely be brutal.) But also expecting more time wasting. I wonder if they should limit the number of subs after the 85th minute or something.

[Red CB Toronto]

The broadcast of the draw today at 3:30 PM


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXgVsB1_BvA&feature=emb_title

[OgtheDim]

Why? So we can play more teams from a banana republic?



The US already has enough teams....


(lots of countries in the Caribbean & Central America have dealt with Covid19 better then us here in Ontario)

[613reppingTFC]

From what I read and heard earlier in the week they will be allowed the 5 subs but only allowed to stop play 3 times, so they would be required to make multiple subs at the same time. This way they can't go and do 5 individual subs throughout the game

"Another caveat of using 5 substitutes is that you can’t do them all individually. Teams may only stop the match 3 times for substitutions, which means that to use 5 subs in a match, teams will have to switch multiple people at once to remain within the 3 stoppages allowed for the substitutions. Halftime can also be used for substitutions." (this announcement was from Fifa though)

[OgtheDim]

Crystal ball says the east groups are:

Toronto, Montreal, NER, DCU

Atlanta, Philly, Chicago, Nashville

Orlando, NYC, NYRB, Miami, Cinci, Columbus

[spe18]

Ahead of the draw today, MLS has also decided that Inter Miami will be sloted in A2. So this means the opening match of the MLS is Back tournament will be Orlando City vs Inter Miami (a.k.a. the Florida Derby), with the rest of the slots to be decided later today.

Some have also been asking how the matchups in Group A will work, since they have 6 teams. Looks like that has also been decided:



Team A1 (Orlando City): A2, A3, A6
Team A2 (Inter Miami): A1, A4, A5
Team A3: A1, A4, A5
Team A4: A2, A3, A6
Team A5: A2, A3, A6
Team A6: A1, A4, A5

https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/06/11/mls-back-tournament-will-kick-orlando-city-vs-inter-miami-opening-game

[OgtheDim]

That draw is ludicrously fixed

3 guys picking numbers so no randomness about it at all.

Oh look...1 natural rivalry match in each group. QUELLE SURPRISE

[OgtheDim]

Crystal ball says the east groups are:

Toronto, Montreal, NER, DCU

Atlanta, Philly, Chicago, Nashville

Orlando, NYC, NYRB, Miami, Cinci, Columbus

Not far off....

[Joe Kool]

That draw is ludicrously fixed

3 guys picking numbers so no randomness about it at all.

Oh look...1 natural rivalry match in each group. QUELLE SURPRISE

I get what you are saying. Should have had Charlie reach into the bowl randomly without looking to pull each ball. But you think MLS would chance that ever getting out if they did guide the reps from each team which balls to pick?

[Voodooman]

I figured knowing our luck we would get Montreal, Columbus and a NY team for the most rigged possible.

At least at the end of the day...we likely got the easiest group

[Joe Kool]

Montreal we can handle I think. I don't see anything that is a big deal about them other than the natural rivalry. They will play defensive. New England we have issues with but that is mostly when we play them in New England. We can deal with them too. DC United will play defensively again like they did last year in the playoffs so will be another team that will try to bunker us. Could make for some frustrating games but will be ok I think in the end.

[Initial B]

I like that each group has at least one rivalry matchup. That will make for good viewing TV wise. I think Group A is the weakest and Group F is the strongest.

[OgtheDim]

I trust the "effin team that effin works" to get through to at least the round of 16. After that, its cup football & nobody is better at that then Seattle & Toronto.

[Gazza_55]

That draw is ludicrously fixed

3 guys picking numbers so no randomness about it at all.

Oh look...1 natural rivalry match in each group. QUELLE SURPRISE

Saw this a lot on Twitter tonight. After Inter and Orlando plus the other seeds were determined there was always going to be one or two rivalries in each group. It's simple math. Why would the league fix a group stage and leave out NYCFC-RBNY, Dallas-Houston, Seattle-Portland. Vancouver-Portland, Atlanta-Orlando, DC-RBNY, LAG-SJ etc. Once the size of the groups were picked it was inevitable.

[James17930]

I'm starting to get hyped!

Can't believe we have to wait a whole month now.

[Oldtimer]

The stage is nicely set for a potential TOR-SEA final. :scarf:

[ManUtd4ever]

Definitely rigged, and I love it!

[Red CB Toronto]

Can definitely see the Reds vs L’Impact being in prime time, TSN will be all over it to make sure it is. The big teams and rivalry matches will be slotted for max exposure. As such Galaxy LAFC will be stuck playing at 10:30 ET for prime time on the east coast. Wonder if every team will get at least one morning game ?

[Hamilton_Red]

Judging by Osorio's comments it seems that they are mostly motivated to win the group stage games because those games count for the regular season that will start after the tournament.

Other thoughts about this...CV19 is rampant in Orange County and is curving up in Florida - rapidly. The chances of this tournament getting through cleanly without game disruptions as teams get quarantined are low IMO.
The USA is the biggest banana republic when it comes to handling of the CV19 (and most other things these days).

I doubt however the players will relish travel to remote concacaf locations (especially not the cheap team that travel on scheduled flights ..Whitecaps.) I would have severe doubts that the CONCACAF Champions League will be able to go this year regardless.

Though it feels like things are getting back to normal ...its likely that we haven't seen the worst of the pandemic yet & it will get tense if we have to go back into lockdowns after a small taste of freedom.

[MightyDM]

probably private MLSE jet taking off from downsview?

Oddly, according to the Globe, we can all fly to the USA at the moment. But when you fly back you have to self quarantine for 14 days. Land border is closed.

[MightyDM]

The stage is nicely set for a potential TOR-SEA final. :scarf:

hah!!!!!

[ensco]

There are real rumblings that NBA players are getting cold feet about their Orlando plan. Of course, the average net worth of an NBA player is such that some of them can risk the criticism that would come with skipping this- this is not true for MLS players, which is one reason why I think the MLS plan is deeply unfair

[Oldtimer]

DC United player tests positive for COVID-19.

https://wtop.com/dc-united/2020/06/dc-united-player-tests-positive-for-covid-19/

[Richard]

That's a warp folks. Player tests positive and the whole thing didn't even start. Just shut it down.

NBA is going to cancel first, NHL second, then MLS reluctantly.

I expect Adam Silver to do the right thing and lead the way, he can say to the owners he tried but just won't work out, you can see in the southern states already that cases are increasing again.

[michaeltfc91]

That's a warp folks. Player tests positive and the whole thing didn't even start. Just shut it down.

NBA is going to cancel first, NHL second, then MLS reluctantly.

I expect Adam Silver to do the right thing and lead the way, he can say to the owners he tried but just won't work out, you can see in the southern states already that cases are increasing again.

Lol it's going to be fine... Players will inevitably test positive for the virus, at least 10% of Americans have already had the virus if not more, it's very easy to catch. Considering the health of athletes and with all the doctors and medical care by their side, the risks of a real issue are minuscule. With them being tested every day / week they will be able to detect it early and have that player isolate for 3 weeks. That's all you can really do, there will be a lot of "Covid suspensions". In my opinion, the leagues should have no problem moving forward in closed doors.

If you say 1 covid case = the end of the league, the world will be at a stand still forever

[OgtheDim]

That's a warp folks. Player tests positive and the whole thing didn't even start.

And since then....DCU ok'd by local PHA to start team training.

[Chevy]

There are real rumblings that NBA players are getting cold feet about their Orlando plan. Of course, the average net worth of an NBA player is such that some of them can risk the criticism that would come with skipping this- this is not true for MLS players, which is one reason why I think the MLS plan is deeply unfair

True. A few months stuck in Orlando is a HUGE step down in lifestyle for the average NBA player. For the average MLS player, it's friggin' paradise.

[barticusz]

Anyone know if TFC has been training? It seems like all the other teams are out there working out and TFC hasn’t even gotten out.

[ensco]

And since then....DCU ok'd by local PHA to start team training.

Everyone has to decide what they can do and what they should do.

I don't like it when those decisions look like they are coercive.

How about just telling everyone that participation is optional? And meaning it?

[Oldtimer]

Everyone has to decide what they can do and what they should do.

I don't like it when those decisions look like they are coercive.

How about just telling everyone that participation is optional? And meaning it?

Should be true everywhere, but isn't.

This world isn't a friendly place, and decisions aren't always made with the employees' well-being in mind.

[Oldtimer]

National Post: If NFL or MLS players kneel during the American anthem, Trump says he 'won't be watching anymore'.
https://nationalpost.com/news/world/if-athletes-kneel-during-the-american-anthem-trump-wont-be-watching-anymore

I'm sure they're" concerned." :lol:

[Joe Kool]

National Post: If NFL or MLS players kneel during the American anthem, Trump says he 'won't be watching anymore'.
https://nationalpost.com/news/world/if-athletes-kneel-during-the-american-anthem-trump-wont-be-watching-anymore

I'm sure they're" concerned." :lol:

That is hilarious. I hope the US people are embarrassed every time their elected President does something like this because they put him there and let this be a learning lesson. As if Trump was tuning in each week to the MLS games. Is he giving up his season tickets too? Too funny.

[OgtheDim]

Anyone know if TFC has been training? It seems like all the other teams are out there working out and TFC hasn’t even gotten out.

Full team training started again yesterday.

https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/toronto-fc-whitecaps-resume-full-team-training-ahead-mls-tournament/

[Red CB Toronto]

The schedule has been released and all three games will be on TSN.

KEY DATES – MLS IS BACK TOURNAMENT
Wednesday, July 8 – MLS Is Back Tournament begins
Friday, July 10 – Toronto FC .v. D.C. United – 8:00 p.m. – TSN
Wednesday, July 15 – Toronto FC .v. Montreal Impact – 8:00 p.m. – TSN
Tuesday, July 21 – Toronto FC .v. New England Revolution – 9:00 a.m. – TSN
Saturday, July 25 – Tuesday, July 28 – Round of 16 Matches
Thursday, July 30 – Saturday, August 1 – Quarterfinal Matches
Wednesday, August 5 & Thursday, August 6 – Semifinal Matches
Tuesday, August 11 – Tournament Final

[Mike_S]

^^ In fact ALL games will be on TSN.

[spe18]

There's also been a slight change to the format of this tournament, in terms of qualifying for the knockout stages..

Now it is the 3 best teams in Group A, and the 2 best teams in each of the remaining groups that will advance automatically.

As well as the 3 best teams of the 4th place team in group A plus the 3rd place team of the other groups (these will be the "wild card" teams).

[Mike_S]

As well as the 3 best teams of the 4th place team in group A plus the 3rd place team of the other groups (these will be the "wild card" teams).

Not exactly. It's the the 3 teams with the best records from all groups that will advance, though it is likely that it will end up as you described it.

[Graeme]

Not exactly. It's the the 3 teams with the best records from all groups that will advance, though it is likely that it will end up as you described it.
Actually, the rules were changed (see here: https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/06/24/mls-updates-round-16-qualification-process-mls-back-tournament)

A1, A2, A3 go into the round of 16, along with the top two from all other groups. There are an additional 3 wildcard spots, for the 3 teams with the best record remaining out of all groups.

[OgtheDim]

PSA

Gonna wait wait a few days to put up a game thread. Its 2 weeks tomorrow & things are just a little weird in Florida right now (see Orlando Pride - positive, not positive - situation)

I still think this goes on but the last few months has me cautious about commitments. :hide:

[Red CB Toronto]

https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-15/e35/s1080x1080/106218961_1402635006586392_92925315019605439_n.jpg ?_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&_nc_cat=100&_nc_ohc=d7HUa6FhiWMAX-oUri7&oh=88aebb6e1fab90b3088b3fe51044825d&oe=5F227DFE&ig_cache_key=MjM0MDgyNDI3MzUwOTc0NzU4OQ%3D%3D.2

Great to see the boys back down at BMO training after so many months away. Beautiful to see.

[OgtheDim]

Orlando player tests positive while a few others likely in quarantine.

(source is The Athletic)

Orlando in the bubble but not saying who is in the bubble.

Apparently disclosure of whom is in the bubble are at the club's discretion, until the time (not yet disclosed) when rosters must be set.

If you thought the roster rules were opaque, just watch all this in the next few weeks.

[Richard]

Those idiots are still debating the usage of masks. Hope we keep the border closed until the new year.

Have you seen the huge surge in cases for Florida, Texas and California? The US has not even reached its peak yet, its just getting started.

[Initial B]

To me, it looks like the Southern States just wasted the 2 months of quarantine and they don't have the economic reserves to do another lockdown. They're going to choose Trump's "let it wash through' method of dealing with it. Just imagine the stress the players that are there are under. Think of the stress they must be under to compete in an environment like that?

[OgtheDim]

MLS announces info on Covid tests so far

https://twitter.com/SoccerInsider/status/1277383932762361861

Union might be forcing the transparency here.

[OgtheDim]

Davidson indicating nobody with TFC or VCWC has tested positive.


https://www.tsn.ca/toronto-fc-whitecaps-say-no-one-has-tested-positive-for-covid-19-at-their-club-1.1490602

[Mike_S]

To me, it looks like the Southern States just wasted the 2 months of quarantine and they don't have the economic reserves to do another lockdown. They're going to choose Trump's "let it wash through' method of dealing with it. Just imagine the stress the players that are there are under. Think of the stress they must be under to compete in an environment like that?

Listening to Sportsnet's podcast, "A Kick in the Grass" today and Dan Riccio mentioned that the media have been hearing good reviews from the teams that are already in the bubble. Marc Dos Santos who was interviewed in the podcast also confirmed being told similar comments by his sources.

[OgtheDim]

OK, weird tweet from Omar Gonzalez because I thought the team was at training today



https://twitter.com/Omar4Gonzalez/status/1277994007298220034

[OgtheDim]

Oh Gawd

https://twitter.com/_AIR_RIQ_/status/1278003986180669441

[Mike_S]

^^ Yeah, I thought they were going to head down a week before their first game, which would have been this Friday.

[Defoe]

So TFC play not this friday but next friday, July 10. Only 10 days to go

[Auzzy]

Oh Gawd

https://twitter.com/_AIR_RIQ_/status/1278003986180669441

I really don't understand the tweets from Omar & Zavaleta, with the crappy MLS food. I thought TFC was still in Toronto?

[OgtheDim]

I really don't understand the tweets from Omar & Zavaleta, with the crappy MLS food. I thought TFC was still in Toronto?

They are in Florida and were in the 12 hour initial testing quarantine zone - the team paid for the food there but the offerings provided were chosen by Disney. Apparently the food out of quarantine is more what they are all used to.


The MLSE chef at the KIA ground is very very good at her job of keeping the players and staff on point physically - but this is like a few months of road trip. Not sure how the diet plans are going to work through all this.

[Auzzy]

They are in Florida and were in the 12 hour initial testing quarantine zone - the team paid for the food there but the offerings provided were chosen by Disney. Apparently the food out of quarantine is more what they are all used to.

The MLSE chef at the KIA ground is very very good at her job of keeping the players and staff on point physically - but this is like a few months of road trip. Not sure how the diet plans are going to work through all this.

Maybe some of the US-based TFC players went to Orlando earlier? A number of TFC players are still posting things from the Downsview training grounds.

[magmadragon]

Maybe some of the US-based TFC players went to Orlando earlier? A number of TFC players are still posting things from the Downsview training grounds.

That's what I was thinking.

[Red CB Toronto]

This Orlando plan is going sideways fast, Dallas has announced six players have tested positive and Nashville has delayed their departure for Florida while waiting on some test results. MLS better be sure about this. Player are pulling out of the NBA restart too.

[ag futbol]

^ I was going to post the same thing. In some respects hindsight is 20/20 but in others this was not a smart plan.

The availability of hotel / field / conference space in Florida caused the league to overlook the first and most obvious problem: the state is completely out of control.

Outside of that, if infection took off during a tennis tournament in a non hot spot... I fear how this could turn out. They are really playing with fire here.

[OgtheDim]

Pretty sure Florida was picked due to ESPN / Disney being able to do all the stuff within the bubble. Only really 1 corporation to be dealt with for much of this.

BUT, you have to create an actual bubble - and that is very very hard with this many moving parts.

[ag futbol]

^ Agree Disney puts a name to what I was trying to describe and in theory makes it convenient from a logistical standpoint

But... I just don’t see how you create an actual bubble in the middle of this state. The service workers and others supporting the event are vulnerable and it’s hard to keep everyone at a distance.

It really only takes a few slip ups and this thing is off the rails. If the FCD news dropped closer to game day this tournament would be completely off the rails. Never mind the league’s best player already taking a pass on it.

[James17930]

To be fair, this plan was made before Florida went crazy – now the question is do they have the cojones to pull the plug if too many players test positive?

[eustacchio]

This plan (and others) was made because Florida was one of the only place with relaxed enough rules to let it happen.

[Mike_S]

Pretty sure Florida was picked due to ESPN / Disney being able to do all the stuff within the bubble. Only really 1 corporation to be dealt with for much of this.

BUT, you have to create an actual bubble - and that is very very hard with this many moving parts.

Yes, I read MLS wanted this place so that they make the company they will be negotiating a tv deal with in a couple of years happy.

[OgtheDim]

Side note to all this

Toronto is likely to be picked to be one of 2 NHL bubble playoff hubs.

[Richard]

It's fucking July and hot as balls, who gives a flying fadoo about hockey.

[Auzzy]

Three more Dallas players test positive; I think they’re up to a total of 12 positives? (Incl the 3 cases they already found before departure from Dallas.)

I hope the Florida bubble is managed better than the Melbourne quarantine hotels (guards having sex with people under quarantine, & spreading the virus out into the general population).

[ag futbol]

Columbus now with a positive test. This looks very close being shuttered to me. I can only imagine the conversations being had between the league and the union right now.

[jabbronies]

Sounds like Vanney doesn't want the team to go down into the bubble yet.
https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1278724367648784384

[OgtheDim]

It's fucking July and hot as balls, who gives a flying fadoo about hockey.


Not me BUT...they, and in particular, MLSE are going to try to make a bubble sport event work in Toronto. It bears watching.



*********

The CBus positive result is still likely brought in. But that is still YIKES time because it indicates MLS didn't take incubation into account when it was figuring out timing for all this.


To add to what jabbronies said here's the follow up




https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1278725993642045441

[Oldtimer]

A health professional's opinion:

https://www.switchthepitchsoccer.com/2020/07/01/magic-or-madness-a-health-professional-speaks-out-about-the-reality-of-covid-19-in-orlando/

[OgtheDim]

FCD a little shaky to be involved right away

https://twitter.com/SteveDavis90/status/1278764975356510209

[Redcoe15]

Florida is a fucking deathtrap right now because their arrogant criminal mental midget of a governor thought he knew better than all the health expert saying otherwise! So he opened up the state despite protests from local officials, and now it's out of control and he's blaming others for the problem except him!

Just shut all the goddamned sports down in North America right now until there's a vaccine available to the public! This is so not worth it! Imagine what would happen if LeBron James or Sidney Crosby tested positive for the virus and got gravely ill as a result of it!

[Smokecell]

https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/story/2020-07-01/mls-is-back-tournament-could-be-in-jeopardy

This tournament should be cancelled.

[OgtheDim]

Hmm...more testing?

https://twitter.com/plattoli/status/1279080974932901889

[OgtheDim]

And now the NYRB have postponed a day due to a "staff member's inconclusive result".

[michaeltfc91]

There is no possible scenario where they play this tournament and no one has the corona virus, who in their right mind thought that was possible? There are two options:
1) Someone has corona so you cancel the tournament
2) You play through out it, when someone tests positive they isolate for 3 weeks and everyone who is negative plays in the games

Which one will they pick?

[Richard]

Good luck to the team that losses 3 goal keepers lmao.

[ensco]

I have never said this in all my years here, but...

Garber has to go. This is an off-the-charts s*$tshow, and predictably so.

First he bungles the contract renewal in February and forgets to include Force Majeure language. Then, in order to fix that, he goes to the mattresses and threatens to lock the players out (in a pandemic!), which will set labour relations back 10 years. In doing that, he decides MLS has to be the first league playing, even though no one watches it on TV, and makes this greasefire tournament the centrepiece of his plan. All he had to do was sit back and let a league with actual pressure to play, like the NBA, play, and see what happens!

For me, I'm done with him. We need someone with a blank slate to clean this mess up.

(Also I am just totally thrilled that our best young striker prospect just picked up a career threatening injury, for nothing!)

[OgtheDim]

Apparently TFC didn't travel because the latest sets of tests were sent to the States and delayed getting back.

[Smokecell]

The Impact were pulled off the training field this evening with a suspected positive case.

Shut. It. Down.

[ag futbol]

This to me looks to be over. There are positive tests jumping out left and right. They’d be beyond pale to continue forward from here.

And to frank, what a silly bet. They’ve just taken a financial hit to try this clown parade.

[Auzzy]

The Impact were pulled off the training field this evening with a suspected positive case.

Shut. It. Down.

Not sure where you saw the Impact news; I haven't found that yet.

However ANOTHER Dallas player tested positive. Vanney said something yesterday about some people in MLS not being careful, for example going to restaurants (whereas all of TFC have been very careful). I wonder if he was referring to Dallas?

Also here's the Deadspin on it (specifically about Columbus): https://deadspin.com/entire-team-now-quarantined-in-disney-s-stupid-athlete-1844263469

[ag futbol]

^ there is a new, muck-raking twitter account that has broken some news of infections in prior cases and they cited the Montreal events last night. Not sure if credible.

https://mobile.twitter.com/MLSCovidCup

[Smokecell]

^ there is a new, muck-raking twitter account that has broken some news of infections in prior cases and they cited the Montreal events last night. Not sure if credible.

https://mobile.twitter.com/MLSCovidCup

The training portion now confirmed by Sam Stejskal.

Also confirmed case for MNUFC inside the bubble.

Yikes.

EDIT: Dallas first game now officially postponed as well.

[Richard]

All it takes is one to team to step up and say we're not playing.

MLSE has the clout to do such a thing and its time they step up to protect the players, staff and everyone else involved.

[YYZ_Fan]

Plane is turning around

https://twitter.com/mleach680news/status/1279480811188891648?s=21

[RealG-TFC]

As much as I was getting excited for some football, I'm liking what I'm seeing from the club. I would totally understand if we opted out. It would send a message that this organization takes care of its personnel and is serious about what is still a global health crisis, even if it meant going against the league.

[OgtheDim]

All it takes is one to team to step up and say we're not playing.

MLSE has the clout to do such a thing and its time they step up to protect the players, staff and everyone else involved.

Not sure yet why the charter plane turned around again today when on its way to Toronto but I still think its more likely "we are waiting for tests to get across the border to us" - which is a nice convenient excuse.


****

Just a note on the MNUFC positive



They were in the bubble on June 28th - if that test was yesterday, in theory its from on their way in or a few days before. The science of incubation is unclear but most people go with 5-7 days. There's no clear conclusive evidence that somebody caught Covid in the bubble...yet.

What there is though is clear conclusive evidence MLS did not take incubation into account when creating its window of entry time to the buble & when teams could get out of team isolation.

The league somehow either never looked at incubation or made an assumption that players would not get it within 7 days of leaving.

Yeah, this is all looking like about 6 weeks from when Garber announces his retirement.

[ensco]

I argued this before and don't want to be repetitive, but that never stopped me before...

Without hundreds of millions in TV revenue at stake, I don’t think MLS (a) can or will pay for the tens of millions of dollars that proper security would cost, and (b) I am not sure that security is really available at any cost (this is becoming a talking point in the NBA restart)

I fully expect Jozy to walk out if the team/league doesn’t. I hope he knows everyone here has his back.

[OgtheDim]

Jozy's twitter account has been doing eye pops about Covid Florida numbers for a couple of weeks now. As have others.



*********
Rollins makes a good point as well

https://twitter.com/24thminute/status/1279496272148389888

[Auzzy]

Holy heck...

https://twitter.com/MLeach680News/status/1279534029918920705

[Smokecell]

https://twitter.com/sonjamissio/status/1279536211099598850?s=21

Well Mavinga liking this post connects a lot of dots.

[James17930]

Just spitballing here:

Could they do this tournament in S. Ontario? (Once there are no positive cases, of course).

There are enough decent stadiums around Toronto, Hamilton, Guelph, Kitchener, etc., you could stick each group somewhere, isolate them, they play the group games, then half of them go home and you have the whole knockout stages at BMO.

Is that feasible?

[OgtheDim]

Just spitballing here:

Could they do this tournament in S. Ontario? (Once there are no positive cases, of course).

There are enough decent stadiums around Toronto, Hamilton, Guelph, Kitchener, etc., you could stick each group somewhere, isolate them, they play the group games, then half of them go home and you have the whole knockout stages at BMO.

Is that feasible?


If, as suspected, these cases are people getting Covid before they go to Orlando, the bubble is only half the problem. And, as we are going to see with the NHL, if there is an outbreak where service workers live who serve the hotels & other needs of the travelling groups, there are going to be issues. Covid cases in Toronto are being found within communities now - the LTCH are not the feeder of the cases we have. Thankfully, there isn't much spread but its not going away.

**********

As for the latest development:

I have a suspicion somebody with TFC might have volunteered to have symptoms - note they said traveling party.

[barticusz]

This whole thing is a disaster. As much as I want to watch soccer again and hope that the tournament goes ahead I don’t think it’s worth it to ask players to put themselves at any further risk.

[Areathrasher]

I think its pretty clear, to me at least, that TFC and MLSE couldnt care less about this and are trying to game the system so they dont have to step foot in Florida and play in this.

Vanney's comments, the money burned on the diverted charters*, players comments on social media....(I'd wager good money Omar is running the COVID Cup Insider account and fucked up by putting the sammich on his personal account when he wasnt in Florida yet)

*If MLS HQ are paying for the charters fucking lolz

[ensco]

One nice thing is the tone of this board throughout this whole thing. The players come on here and read this. I don’t ever need them to admit it, but they do. They know we have their back.

It's heartening to see the vast majority of devoted fans putting player health first.

[Auzzy]

Yeah you have to wonder if those "symptoms" were a convenient way for TFC to delay the flight another day.

But I'm also wondering about the number of positive tests for players who tested negatively previously, even from areas where the pandemic is relatively under control. You didn't hear so much about random positive results (after negatives) in all the European leagues that have restarted. A small number early on (e.g. in Germany) but then it quieted down. Part of it is surely that the virus is out of control in areas (e.g. Dallas) but any chance MLS is trying to save a bit of money by using a crappy test routine?

[Auzzy]

https://twitter.com/sonjamissio/status/1279536211099598850?s=21

Well Mavinga liking this post connects a lot of dots.

Somebody noticed, looks like Mavinga unliked it again.

And the "oh they're young and healthy, none of them will probably die from it" crowd is warped. Lots of articles in the last few days, from various countries and news outlets, about the large number of people (even those that were young and healthy) that survived Covid-19, but are facing massive long-term health issues, that no health care provider or government has any clue about how to resolve yet. They're forming survivor support groups, comparing notes and finding strange symptoms that are common in these groups. E.g. here's a really scary Twitter thread: https://twitter.com/DaniOliver/status/1279155358666305541

[Smokecell]

Somebody noticed, looks like Mavinga unliked it again.

And the "oh they're young and healthy, none of them will probably die from it" crowd is warped. Lots of articles in the last few days, from various countries and news outlets, about the large number of people (even those that were young and healthy) that survived Covid-19, but are facing massive long-term health issues, that no health care provider or government has any clue about how to resolve yet. They're forming survivor support groups, comparing notes and finding strange symptoms that are common in these groups. E.g. here's a really scary Twitter thread: https://twitter.com/DaniOliver/status/1279155358666305541

Furthermore, that crowd is not accounting for things like diabetics (Jordan Morris) that put individuals at a much higher risk. Some other players have come out and said that they too are high risk without disclosing why - nothing wrong with that but comes to show how uneducated that this "young and invincible" crowd really is.

Safety for the players above all else.

For anybody else still keeping score, Nashville has also been hit with 5-6 positive cases. They are scheduled to play Wednesday as of the time of writing this post. Also several reports of protocol being broken within the bubble.

[OgtheDim]

Vela backed out - as discussed last week already

[Richard]

A round table with Bob Mcowan on sports returning.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTh_kObibPU

For anyone who has missed some quality sports conversations since the demise of prime time sports.

[Oldtimer]

So... will we name this competition "the Covid Cup?"

As much as I miss watching TFC, the risks seem insane compared to the benefits, given what is happening out there. Any player that doesn't want to participate should be allowed to bow out. I honestly think that it may be wise to cancel the whole thing.

[OgtheDim]

And the team is cleared to take off

https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1280205924456697858

[ag futbol]

Yeah you have to wonder if those "symptoms" were a convenient way for TFC to delay the flight another day.

But I'm also wondering about the number of positive tests for players who tested negatively previously, even from areas where the pandemic is relatively under control. You didn't hear so much about random positive results (after negatives) in all the European leagues that have restarted. A small number early on (e.g. in Germany) but then it quieted down. Part of it is surely that the virus is out of control in areas (e.g. Dallas) but any chance MLS is trying to save a bit of money by using a crappy test routine?
The organization of the tournament in Florida sounds absolutely 3rd rate. They at best did not think this through. The bubble is only as good as the procedures in place to maintain it

[OgtheDim]

Less 3rd rate then what everybody has been dealing with the last few months (As somebody who has been trying to operate a business throughout all this)

Trial

A mix of error & success

Fix


Looks like MLS doesn't have a good internal bubble communications system in place - that needs to be fixed pronto


***********


The complication here:

Florida is a mess

[FootBallAZ]

little birdie shared with me that, players arent thrilled and dont care to play in this tournament.

problem of today's society. Anything for money, the corporations are so greedy.

holding on to our seasons ticket money, while they generate additional income.

[ag futbol]

Less 3rd rate then what everybody has been dealing with the last few months (As somebody who has been trying to operate a business throughout all this)

Trial

A mix of error & success

Fix


This is not the attitude you take when the stakes include people’s health, sorry.

[OgtheDim]

This is not the attitude you take when the stakes include people’s health, sorry.

It is the attitude you take when you are doing an enterprise in the midst of a massively changing situation - this is how all of us individually and all organizations & businesses have operated for weeks (see - masks discussion from March compared to today)


Whether MLS should be doing that enterprise is another matter - I think it's dubious at best & reckless now in Florida. But, like everything else right now, its never going to be perfect. I have some leeway for internal communication errors and the like - that can be fixed. I have no leeway for quarantines that should have been known by now to have to be a certain time.

NWSL got this right, btw.

[Smokecell]

Breaking news - FC Dallas is out of the tournament.

[Oldtimer]

Breaking news - FC Dallas is out of the tournament.

10 players testing positive. :eek:

https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/07/06/fc-dallas-withdrawn-mls-back-tournament-0

[OgtheDim]

There's a story in the demise of Dallas - maybe not Orlando Pride level of stupidity, but something happened.

[OgtheDim]

TFC on its way

[ag futbol]

<b>It is the attitude you take when you are doing an enterprise in the midst of a massively changing situation - this is how all of us individually and all organizations & businesses have operated for weeks (see - masks discussion from March compared to today)<\b>


Whether MLS should be doing that enterprise is another matter - I think it's dubious at best & reckless now in Florida. But, like everything else right now, its never going to be perfect. I have some leeway for internal communication errors and the like - that can be fixed. I have no leeway for quarantines that should have been known by now to have to be a certain time.

NWSL got this right, btw.
The bolder statement is correct but the premise of using this logic to describe the story of #MLSISBACK is not.

The league didn’t suddenly find itself in this situation on the way to Florida and then the virus hit. They were shutdown and decided at their own free will to make this tournament. They had an opportunity to think about things like risk / reward and implementation.

Notwithstanding that, once you hit the launch button your logic applies. Implementation will never be perfect. But this is closer to a space shuttle launch than inserting a new hamburger on the menu. You just just throw it out there and say “oops” when it doesn’t work.

[rydermike]

Breaking news - FC Dallas is out of the tournament.

I guess they'll shift a team from that 6 team group to replace Dallas in the four team group, then re-jig the schedule for the now 5 team group.

[Auzzy]

Also several reports of protocol being broken within the bubble.

Anything you can point to, Twitter or elsewhere?

[Auzzy]

There's a story in the demise of Dallas - maybe not Orlando Pride level of stupidity, but something happened.

Vanney mentioned something in an interview, about TFC being very careful (individually & collectively) in the days leading up to training and tournaments. And that others weren't so careful - I believe he mentioned going to restaurants.

[ag futbol]

FWIW, Not sure if credible:

https://mobile.twitter.com/sadfcdfans/status/1280264152980873219

[Auzzy]

I lol'd at this: https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/07/06/nycfc-stadium-search-slowed-covid-19-it-just-wasn-t-anyone-s-top-priority

MLS intends to play matches in-market after the tournament finishes on August 11th. There's no indication the situation in the worst US states will be any better then. Plus with MLB restarting, NYCFC probably won't be able to play at Yankee Stadium.

[rydermike]

I wish TFC, MI, and VFC just said No to the MLS tournament and said that the situation in the United States is too unstable.
Then reach an agreement with the CSA and Cpl to play in the Cpl for this season. Probably would've had to make some concessions like no DPs or max 1 DP allowed, and the CPL might not have been in favour, but it would've been great to just show what a ridiculous scenario this thing in Florida is.

[James17930]

I wish TFC, MI, and VFC just said No to the MLS tournament and said that the situation in the United States is too unstable.
Then reach an agreement with the CSA and Cpl to play in the Cpl for this season. Probably would've had to make some concessions like no DPs or max 1 DP allowed, and the CPL might not have been in favour, but it would've been great to just show what a ridiculous scenario this thing in Florida is.

That would be way too complicated.

At this point they really just need to shut down the season. The US is too out of control.

The only other option I can see is bringing every team to Ontario and playing out the season in various locales. But that's sort of a crazy plan too, because the players aren't going to want to be away from their families for 6 months or whatever.

They should just shut it all down and pick up the pieces next year.

[Red CB Toronto]

TFC on its way

If I were TFC I wold have pulled out? Not worth the risk when the government in Florida is out of its mind, have been readying daily about the state and Rick Desantis the Governor is nuts, all you got too do is read the dailies to realize how brazen they are being with their citizens lives. Abbot in Texas in the same.

[OgtheDim]

All the teams are now either on the ground in Orlando or in the sky.








********

On another note, assuming games are going to happen now, squad becomes relavent

Which leads to this most people seemed to have forgotten - Jozy was only just back out of 14 day quarantine last week.

https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1278727261605298177

[magmadragon]

Which leads to this most people seemed to have forgotten - Jozy was only just back out of 14 day quarantine last week.


I'm assuming he was in quarantine because he came back to Canada?

[Yohan]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTy45o0kakE

[OgtheDim]

I'm assuming he was in quarantine because he came back to Canada?

Yes - must have been provided a waiver to return

[OgtheDim]

Omar brought his own stuff to do some cooking in the bubble

https://twitter.com/Omar4Gonzalez/status/1280338550312099841

The tweets from within are going to be an intriguing look into athlete life in an abnormal setting

[DIEHARDTFC]

Maybe its just me, or maybe I haven't kept as up to date on what MLS plans are but from my bird's eye view it seems like MLS has focused all its attention on this tournament and not on a viable plan on resuming the season. In fact, I was shocked when I first read that they planned to carry on the season, I thought this tournament was going to replace any hopes of salvaging a season this year. Like, has anyone even considered our situation in Toronto for example - how the hell are TFC going to stage home matches at BMO if Toronto is a hub city for the NHL and its housed on the CNE grounds? How is NYFC going to have home matches if the Yankees are back at Yankee stadium? Where are the concrete plans MLS has to continue the season after this tournament - if it even is able to start and complete it? It all seems so strange to me to have all this focus on a tournament and say they want to continue a season but yet seemingly have 0 plans laid out to do so - again, unless I've missed the boat on how they intend to continue on after the covid cup.

[Joe Kool]

Maybe its just me, or maybe I haven't kept as up to date on what MLS plans are but from my bird's eye view it seems like MLS has focused all its attention on this tournament and not on a viable plan on resuming the season. In fact, I was shocked when I first read that they planned to carry on the season, I thought this tournament was going to replace any hopes of salvaging a season this year. Like, has anyone even considered our situation in Toronto for example - how the hell are TFC going to stage home matches at BMO if Toronto is a hub city for the NHL and its housed on the CNE grounds? How is NYFC going to have home matches if the Yankees are back at Yankee stadium? Where are the concrete plans MLS has to continue the season after this tournament - if it even is able to start and complete it? It all seems so strange to me to have all this focus on a tournament and say they want to continue a season but yet seemingly have 0 plans laid out to do so - again, unless I've missed the boat on how they intend to continue on after the covid cup.

When the MLS is Back tourney was announced, that is the first thing I thought of. If they can pull it off then whatever, it is a one time thing but then what? Nothing is under control anywhere especially in the US to continue the season in those cities. At least Canada has somewhat of a grip on it from a preventative measure but really that is still walking on eggshells and wave 2 can come back with all the businesses getting more open. I kind of wished they just scrapped the season for everyone's sake. These teams are coming in and out of the US regularly would be a risk and not like any of them will abide by any 14 day isolation period after travelling between countries because how could they....whole thing is screwed.

[Joe Kool]

Was doing the bracket challenge and my picks keep having to change as teams lose players. I had Vancouver as a wildcard but now that they are missing 5 players including Cavallini I had to revise that again. Bracket challenge is pretty much a crap shoot because external factors other than soccer skill and team preparedness will influence many outcomes.

[OgtheDim]

So...Orlando & Miami tonight

In theory, actual soccer


All games on TSN, production by ESPN. ESPN has a sideline reporter & the commentator crews will be doing that from a studio.

No clue if Canadian teams will get TSN studio coverage (like we do for normal away games).

[Ponderosa]

So... will we name this competition "the Covid Cup?"

As much as I miss watching TFC, the risks seem insane compared to the benefits, given what is happening out there. Any player that doesn't want to participate should be allowed to bow out. I honestly think that it may be wise to cancel the whole thing.

An apt - name - Nashville FC tested 5 positive yesterday. I honestly don't know how I feel about watching these matches...it will be a like watching something to akin dead man walking - all I'll be able to think about is how many of these guys are going to test positive next.

[Ultra & Proud]

An apt - name - Nashville FC tested 5 positive yesterday. I honestly don't know how I feel about watching these matches...it will be a like watching something to akin dead man walking - all I'll be able to think about is how many of these guys are going to test positive next.

If they get down to the complex Covid free then they're a hell of a lot safer in there than I am going to work everyday and I don't consider myself a dead man walking. I'm essential service healthcare too.

[Mike_S]

So...Orlando & Miami tonight



No clue if Canadian teams will get TSN studio coverage (like we do for normal away games).

I'm guessing yes if the one hour preview show Monday and scheduled pre-game show for tonight is any clue.

[OgtheDim]

ESPN's coverage is going to be MEGA sized for this.

Virtual stadium surrounding the field

20 cameras


NO CROWD NOISE

Drone cameras


This could either be revolutionary or WTF time for some of this stuff


https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/story/2020-07-05/coronavirus-mls-tv-coverage gives the details

[OgtheDim]

Seems Steve Goff is one of the journos inside the bubble (getting flack for his "I shoulda lied comment")

https://twitter.com/SoccerInsider/status/1280882418761838595

[Oldtimer]

An apt - name - Nashville FC tested 5 positive yesterday. I honestly don't know how I feel about watching these matches...it will be a like watching something to akin dead man walking - all I'll be able to think about is how many of these guys are going to test positive next.

Up to 9 now according to MLS is Back Insider twitter account.

If true, Nashville will be out.

[rydermike]

Up to 9 now according to MLS is Back Insider twitter account.

If true, Nashville will be out.

Nashville will definitely be out. Guess they can pull one if the other group A teams and slide them in Dallas 's spot so it's all groups of 4 then.

[Red CB Toronto]

Up to 9 now according to MLS is Back Insider twitter account.

If true, Nashville will be out.

5 confirmed and four awaiting the results after being re-tested after false positive on the first ones.

[Inklink]

Orlando against Miami. Some of these camera angles got me dizzy.

[MikeForbes]

This high up camera angle has me feeling like my 2 year old messed with my FIFA settings.

[Smokecell]

5 confirmed and four awaiting the results after being re-tested after false positive on the first ones.

Results confirmed positive for all 4. It’s a confirmed 9. A level mind would assume that they will be withdrawn tomorrow but MLS doesn’t want to tarnish opening night.

[PaceyWinger]

Pretty powerful start tonight with the MLS is Black ceremony. Big props to JMo and the work he has done so far with the Black Players Coalition. 👏👏👏

[MikeForbes]

Nani can still play, but damn if he doesn't look like he is 50 years old facially.

[OgtheDim]

This high up camera angle has me feeling like my 2 year old messed with my FIFA settings.

White Hart Lane


*********

The reaction by the ambulance workers to the Reyes injury was pathetic - the fact he's likely going to a Covid full hospital is scary as hell.

[PaceyWinger]

Nani can still play, but damn if he doesn't look like he is 50 years old facially.

So true.

[PaceyWinger]

Nani can still play, but damn if he doesn't look like he is 50 years old facially.

His pass on the goal was sublime. He's still got it.

[MikeForbes]

Instagram legend Jay Chapman on for Inter Miami.

[MikeForbes]

Nani with a winner for Orlando at the death. Not the prettiest game, but the effort level and intensity was better than I expected.

[AlanO]

the fact he's likely going to a Covid full hospital is scary as hell.
Indeed. This must weigh on the minds of all the players. Imagine having to go to a Florida hospital right now.

[PaceyWinger]

Indeed. This must weigh on the minds of all the players. Imagine having to go to a Florida hospital right now.
I have to think that there is almost no way they take him to a hospital. It would be better to treat him in a 7/11 bathroom.

[Joe Kool]

Well I thought that at least one person on here would comment on the mega advertising and big Adidas symbol on the middle of the field but I guess it didn't bother anyone but me? There is one thing with having it on the side which is not so bad but on the actual playing area of the field I hate. Typical American crap with that. Didn't see that on any of the German, Italian or English league games I have been watching recently. Nobody would dare. Nothing special about the broadcast other than being able to hear the foul language on the field. Soccer quality to kick off the tournament from the Florida teams was not great which was expected anyway. Really hoping TFC doesn't come out playing at this level.

[613reppingTFC]

Couldn't agree with you more Joe, First thing I noticed was that massive Adidas logo in the middle of the pitch, looks horrible. From watching there wasn't too much I noticed different than how normal games would have been televised. They said it would be groundbreaking with 20 cameras and 6 microphones yet besides hearing the players a bit more clear, the odd expletive, and using the drone shots every so often it didn't look very groundbreaking. One of the announcers even said just hearing the sound of players may get tiresome after 50 games but we will have to see lol.

Chapman made it out there and had a decent header chance that just went high.
Also whoever said Nani looks like he is 50 is right haha but yeah he's still got it going on with that pass for the goal.

[OgtheDim]

Reyes did not spend the night in the hospital - checked out - now in isolation while tested (he should be in isolation for 5 days minimum but we'll see)



BTW, much of that game was confirmation that MLS refs let too much go & may have issues with this tournament's intensity.

********


And props to the Union players for their kits this morning

[ag futbol]

Well I thought that at least one person on here would comment on the mega advertising and big Adidas symbol on the middle of the field but I guess it didn't bother anyone but me? There is one thing with having it on the side which is not so bad but on the actual playing area of the field I hate. Typical American crap with that. Didn't see that on any of the German, Italian or English league games I have been watching recently. Nobody would dare. Nothing special about the broadcast other than being able to hear the foul language on the field. Soccer quality to kick off the tournament from the Florida teams was not great which was expected anyway. Really hoping TFC doesn't come out playing at this level.
Agreed. Keep that trash off the field.

[DIEHARDTFC]

Powerful message the players sent WRT the BLM movement. Moved me for sure.

[MikeForbes]

Only two games in, but I am enjoying this. It isn't perfect by any stretch, but I am now incredibly excited to watch TFC play Sunday morning.

[Red CB Toronto]

The players are obviously not in total game shape, but still fun to watch. Bedoya with the goal to put Philly up currently.

[Oldtimer]

Nani with a winner for Orlando at the death. Not the prettiest game, but the effort level and intensity was better than I expected.

Terminology like this is normally fine, but seems a little sinister during the Covid Cup.

[OgtheDim]

So the testing company they are using - isn't very good

https://twitter.com/PaulTenorio/status/1281247002421067777

**********

This is funny too

https://twitter.com/tombogert/status/1281224291904884737


Looking forward to hearing the guys yell on Sunday morning.

[Red CB Toronto]

Thats what I loved about attending TFC II games last year, you could hear all the dialogue from the pitch. It certainly will be fun hearing it during these Disney games, will make for some interesting entertainment if not colorful.


So the testing company they are using - isn't very good

https://twitter.com/PaulTenorio/status/1281247002421067777

**********

This is funny too

https://twitter.com/tombogert/status/1281224291904884737


Looking forward to hearing the guys yell on Sunday morning.

[OgtheDim]

Various reports providing the expected news

Nashville out

Chicago moves to Group B

[MikeForbes]

Terminology like this is normally fine, but seems a little sinister during the Covid Cup.

My bad. In the final minutes*

[Smokecell]

Various reports providing the expected news

Nashville out

Chicago moves to Group B

I like when common sense reigns victorious.

On that same thought, theoretically you could have Dallas and Nashville play each other twice prior to the fall restart to get them an easy 2 games back while adhering to what you'd see in a traditional MLS season (max 2 matches vs an opponent). Now what to do about game 3?

[Auzzy]

I like when common sense reigns victorious.

On that same thought, theoretically you could have Dallas and Nashville play each other twice prior to the fall restart to get them an easy 2 games back while adhering to what you'd see in a traditional MLS season (max 2 matches vs an opponent). Now what to do about game 3?

Perhaps other teams didn't all play an equal number of games before the shutdowns?

[Smokecell]

Perhaps other teams didn't all play an equal number of games before the shutdowns?

Hadn't considered that but upon further review all teams were at 2GP. Had to check Wiki because MLS Standings page auto redirects you to the MLS is Back standings.

[MikeForbes]

The first game with TFC ramifications goes tonight with the Impact taking on the Revs. Guessing we are rooting for a draw? I feel like the Revs might be the sleeper team in the group.

[Yohan]

The first game with TFC ramifications goes tonight with the Impact taking on the Revs. Guessing we are rooting for a draw? I feel like the Revs might be the sleeper team in the group.
You can never rule out a Bruce Arena coached team. And Bou and Gil are legit ballers.

[rydermike]

Just turned on TSN. Wileman and Caldwell calling the game. So guess tfc will have them not the espn announcers

[MikeForbes]

Just turned on TSN. Wileman and Caldwell calling the game. So guess tfc will have them not the espn announcers

Can't wait to find out what country Jonathan Osorio represents in international competition 8000 times Sunday morning!

[MikeForbes]

Buksa is gonna score a ton of goals in MLS. Just has that knack for finding half chances and with Gil and Bou feeding him the ball, easy money.

[Yohan]

Revs looked dangerous. Need a bit of polish on finishing, but that's expected after COVID.

IMFC... it's going to be a long season for Henry. Unbalanced roster that doesn't have a gamebreaker.

[OgtheDim]

That's the second best result for us. Puts pressure on Montreal for our second game.

[Auzzy]

A bunch of great saves in the NE - Montreal game.

[613reppingTFC]

So again while watching last night (and besides the large superimposed Adidas logo in the centre of the pitch), they have large screen's superimposed behind each net showing fan's cheering. I'm curious who this is for or if it's odd to anyone else? The screens are not actually at the game therefore the players are not benefiting from seeing any of the fans cheering for them, its' only the people watching the televised broadcast that will see it. So is it for the people watching at home? Also anytime a ball is crossed in...you are unable to see it since it disappears behind the screen haha

[Mike_S]

Just turned on TSN. Wileman and Caldwell calling the game. So guess tfc will have them not the espn announcers

I'm pretty sure ESPN wasn't carrying the game in the US last night, but TSN will have their guys call the Canadian teams' games, regardless.

[Joe Kool]

Just turned on TSN. Wileman and Caldwell calling the game. So guess tfc will have them not the espn announcers

They have their little things that annoy people for sure but I find them far less annoying than the ESPN guys and there are lots of pauses when the TSN guys are not talking so we can just watch the game with it's natural sounds unlike the ESPN guys who think they need to be rambling about something for every minute of the game without taking a breath.

[Red CB Toronto]

I'm pretty sure ESPN wasn't carrying the game in the US last night, but TSN will have their guys call the Canadian teams' games, regardless.


They have their little things that annoy people for sure but I find them far less annoying than the ESPN guys and there are lots of pauses when the TSN guys are not talking so we can just watch the game with it's natural sounds unlike the ESPN guys who think they need to be rambling about something for every minute of the game without taking a breath.

Games are on both ESPN and Fox on the US, was great having Taylor Twellman calling the opener. He is one of my favourite guys on this side of the pond on air these days , pulls no punches and is well connected, saying how he sees it. Mr. Caldwell is coming into his own, much more comfortable these days and to be honest much harder to call a game from monitor than live in the stadium, you can get tripped up at times by no fault of your own.

[Joe Kool]

Games are on both ESPN and Fox on the US, was great having Taylor Twellman calling the opener. He is one of my favourite guys on this side of the pond on air these days , pulls no punches and is well connected, saying how he sees it. Mr. Caldwell is coming into his own, much more comfortable these days and to be honest much harder to call a game from monitor than live in the stadium, you can get tripped up at times by no fault of your own.

Twellman has some potential for the reasons you mention but he just needs to realize that we are not tuning into the broadcast for his attempt at standup comedy and since he is nowhere near funny in any way he should just leave that out and call the soccer game only. For all we know maybe the producers are saying to try to be funny so maybe not his fault but eventually they all have to realize it is not working. The other guy tries to be his straight man with their favorite topic about how many games they still have to work together for.....I am embarrassed for them.

[OgtheDim]

Kloke article today pretty much indicates team pissed off they have to leave safe Toronto for unsafe Florida & to a man determined to make the rest of the league pay for this - playing for the pride of the city taking a different turn here, it seems.

[Auzzy]

Kloke article today pretty much indicates team pissed off they have to leave safe Toronto for unsafe Florida & to a man determined to make the rest of the league pay for this - playing for the pride of the city taking a different turn here, it seems.

That's good to hear!

Has any journalist asked TFC why Jozy didn't travel to Toronto earlier, so he could have done his 14-day quarantine and still fully trained with the team? Really too bad if he's not fully available right off the bat, after all his history. My impression: Jozy is generally quite fit compared to previous years, but probably missing game fitness plus lack of time to gel with the rest of the team in its current configuration.

[kottisinick]

A sporting KC player has tested positive. This is not looking good at all

[PaceyWinger]

They have their little things that annoy people for sure but I find them far less annoying than the ESPN guys and there are lots of pauses when the TSN guys are not talking so we can just watch the game with it's natural sounds unlike the ESPN guys who think they need to be rambling about something for every minute of the game without taking a breath.

Gotta say Jon Champion is a voice I truly respect in world football, but he can be a bit much for some people.

[MikeForbes]

Patrick Mullins will probably win the Golden Boot for this tourney when he nets a brace Sunday morning. The goals are definitely missing so far.

[PaceyWinger]

Patrick Mullins will probably win the Golden Boot for this tourney when he nets a brace Sunday morning. The goals are definitely missing so far.

I feel like if someone is willing to make the runs they could make some $$ playing with Pozuelo, Piati, Osorio, etc. Just need some pace to get to the back post.

[Bushmancan]

I feel like if someone is willing to make the runs they could make some $$ playing with Pozuelo, Piati, Osorio, etc. Just need some pace to get to the back post.

That is why the Achara injury is so awful for him and for the team. Finally had someone who could give Jozy a break. Re-watched the finals, we dominated the first half but couldn’t finish. So looking forward to tomorrow.

[ensco]

https://twitter.com/jozyaltidore/status/1281969935040884736?s=21

[Red CB Toronto]

https://twitter.com/jozyaltidore/status/1281969935040884736?s=21

Would it really have had much of an effect on TV if say two games were played at the same time? How many people watch random MLS games that they have no attachment too, sure some but not a lot.

[Cas87]

Would it really have had much of an effect on TV if say two games were played at the same time? How many people watch random MLS games that they have no attachment too, sure some but not a lot.

there may be a limit of how many TV operators that were allowed in tithe bubble, along with limited camera equipment?

[ensco]

I have watched nothing of this so far. Zero.

I am really torn about the game tomorrow.

On the one hand, it's my team.

On the other, this whole thing is the stupidest thing I have ever seen, and is, on a moral level, absolutely terrible.

I love my team but I am not some junkie jonesing so badly that I am looking for veins in my toes.

[OgtheDim]

On the one hand, it will likely be the one time you get to hear the way the team communicates (well, we might if Luke Wileman shuts it for a bit). Like how much does Vanney actually talk? Or Westberg? Or Gonzalez?

I know, its a stretch but it will give some insight into how this team does stuff.

[Red CB Toronto]

So will Nashvlle and Dallas have to play three random games against each other during the regular season to make up for missing out on the tournament?

[OgtheDim]

ATL vs NYRB so far the best game among a lot of not very good stuff

If MLS was hoping to show the world a good product, they underestimated how long it takes for teams to work out the kinks - these are teams who only played 2 games in a league where most teams only have the rust shaken off after 4.

[Auzzy]

ATL vs NYRB so far the best game among a lot of not very good stuff

If MLS was hoping to show the world a good product, they underestimated how long it takes for teams to work out the kinks - these are teams who only played 2 games in a league where most teams only have the rust shaken off after 4.

I know the players didn't want to be in the Florida swamp/bubble any longer than necessary. But I wonder if one pre-tournament warm-up game per team in the bubble might have been a good idea, likely against a squad from the opposite conference. Would have also left a bit more time to deal with testing and quarantine for those teams with a few positive tests.

[PaceyWinger]

So far I've watched all the games. A lot of rust which is understandable but if TFC can play somewhere near their normal I think they are significantly above most of the teams we've seen so far.

[boozilla]

The US doesn't deserve sports, yet.

[PaceyWinger]

watching the fox feed. the studio crew sounds great. they throw it over to the play by play crew sitting 15 feet away and they sound like they are speaking through my 6 year old's walky talky. what is the deal.

[PaceyWinger]

Cinci continues to be complete garbage. Zelarayán is a player though. He's been a clear standout and his strike was beautiful.

Pity Martinez looked real good for Atl.

Bou last night looked real dangerous for NE. Not surprising given his quality in MEX.

Other than that everyone has looked a bit out of sorts for the most part.

[PaceyWinger]

Cinci continues to be complete garbage. Zelarayán is a player though. He's been a clear standout and his strike was beautiful.

Pity Martinez looked real good for Atl.

Bou last night looked real dangerous for NE. Not surprising given his quality in MEX.

Other than that everyone has looked a bit out of sorts for the most part.

Zelarayán is having a night. His pass to Gyasi Zardes on the 3rd goal is magic.

[Red CB Toronto]

1 hour until the Reds kickoff, can not wait, been waiting for this for a long time.

[Ponderosa]

#MLSisNOTback

[Auzzy]

Waking up too early Sunday morning for this shit. :hulk:

[Auzzy]

TSN2 SportsCentre now showing the hype video for TFC and MLS...

[OgtheDim]

Now this is a mighty fine goal

https://twitter.com/SoccerByIves/status/1283204624342822913

[ag futbol]

Miami look very much like an exhibition team but I like Pizarro.

Not the flashiest #10 but classy when it counts and works his socks off. Definitely a DP other players will rally around and you can build off.

[PaceyWinger]

Miami look very much like an exhibition team but I like Pizarro.

Not the flashiest #10 but classy when it counts and works his socks off. Definitely a DP other players will rally around and you can build off.

He impressed me too. I didn't remember him from the CL run. Chivas if I recall?

[Yohan]

That Zelarayan guy from Columbus impressed me as a playmaker. He's playing like another Higuain (meaning, he'll probably score buckets of goals against us)

[Defoe]

That Zelarayan guy from Columbus impressed me as a playmaker. He's playing like another Higuain (meaning, he'll probably score buckets of goals against us)

Columbus is stacked. They may even be one of the favourites this year

[PaceyWinger]

Columbus is stacked. They may even be one of the favourites this year

He looked fantastic and I think they will be pretty good, but as a team I will wait until they play someone else before I crown them truly dangerous. They played maybe the worst non-TFC team I've ever seen.

[PaceyWinger]

What a start for Vancouver tonight. It may be contoversial but I tend to cheer for them since they pose no discernable threat. The Davies connection helps, not to mention Ricketts. Crepeau has already done his part.

[MikeForbes]

This Vancouver/San Jose is both the worst and best match of the tournament.

[Yohan]

Caps are bad, even with 5 players not making the trip to Orlando

[PaceyWinger]

I agree. I also take it back, Vancouver is the worst non-TFC team I've ever seen. Wow.

[KGH]

So I've been thinking....whats the end game here? Awesome there's a few games....but then what? There's no way the regular season happens with teams playing in their own stadiums. Lets miraculously say there is something that gets going south of the border there's not going to be any games north. Look what the Jays have to do for the travel exemption to avoid the 14 day isolation. They're locked in a bubble at the dome and guys are all over social media complaining about being in prison...which they are. Unless their family is locked in there with them they can't exit to see their kids. No bangy bangy. Nothing. Same with the NHL and NBA finishing out their seasons. They're locked up.

The only way there's more games is if they pick another location in the US and do another tourny in a bubble. I just can't see any other way around play games in 2020.

[OgtheDim]

So I've been thinking....whats the end game here? Awesome there's a few games....but then what? There's no way the regular season happens with teams playing in their own stadiums.

The unstated but discussed reason for this current tournament is a sop to ESPN that will hopefully get a larger TV contract. The new CBA gives players a cut of the TV - that's why the buy in from the union on this venture.

As for the future, there are owners thinking they can do this - don't forget, some of these guys also own NFL teams - that league is actually going to make people sit in seats during a pandemic. They also look at England & Germany & go, "Hey, we can at least do that!" MLB is supposed to start up next week too behind closed doors. But those are TV driven revenue leagues.

MLS is a gate driven league - if some of these teams don't open up with fans, they will lose 8 figures this season.

[backbeat]

So I've been thinking....whats the end game here? Awesome there's a few games....but then what? There's no way the regular season happens with teams playing in their own stadiums. Lets miraculously say there is something that gets going south of the border there's not going to be any games north. Look what the Jays have to do for the travel exemption to avoid the 14 day isolation. They're locked in a bubble at the dome and guys are all over social media complaining about being in prison...which they are. Unless their family is locked in there with them they can't exit to see their kids. No bangy bangy. Nothing. Same with the NHL and NBA finishing out their seasons. They're locked up.

The only way there's more games is if they pick another location in the US and do another tourny in a bubble. I just can't see any other way around play games in 2020.


The Leafs and the Blue Jays are going to be playing in their respective stadiums - not sure why TFC couldn't.

[KGH]

The Leafs and the Blue Jays are going to be playing in their respective stadiums - not sure why TFC couldn't.

The CDN govt has created an exemption to the 14 day isolation window but under the condition of 100% lock down. They're prisoners in the stadium/hotel. Jays aren't allowed to leave rogers center and if they're caught doing so they face a massive fine and jail time. Until the end of the season. Same with the NHL bubble. Guys are locked down. I'm willing to bet the NHL bubble in Toronto gets compromised and then there's some fairly hefty suspensions / fines.


At least with MLS and NBA they're locked on a resort. Its one thing to be away from your family for a few weeks. Its another for an entire season.

[OgtheDim]

The Leafs and the Blue Jays are going to be playing in their respective stadiums - not sure why TFC couldn't.

The Leafs will be playing in a bubble situation here in Toronto.

The Jays are not cleared to play home games here yet - there is serious talk they will be playing home games in Buffalo.

[OgtheDim]

On another note:

Atlanta imploding playing Cinci and losing after down to 10 within 26 minutes and then another straight red in extra time.


****

[benito]

On another note:

Atlanta imploding playing Cinci and losing after down to 10 within 26 minutes and then another straight red in extra time.


****

Cinci had trouble playing against Atlanta's 10 men and generated no offensive chances. They were lucky that the Atlanta PK was overturned by VAR.

[Joe Kool]

So if playing in the 9AM games is so brutal on teams and pretty much every team is reporting that it is, is it fair that TFC has to play 9AM games twice in the group stage especially with the cramping and heat related issues we just had essentially causing us to tie the game versus win? New England and DC United only need to play one 9AM game and both are against TFC. Montreal doesn't have to play any 9AM games. It just makes TFC's group stage that much harder. Looking at the schedule only Chicago and NYCFC have two 9AM games like TFC. All other teams are let off easier.

[Red CB Toronto]

So if playing in the 9AM games is so brutal on teams and pretty much every team is reporting that it is, is it fair that TFC has to play 9AM games twice in the group stage especially with the cramping and heat related issues we just had essentially causing us to tie the game versus win? New England and DC United only need to play one 9AM game and both are against TFC. Montreal doesn't have to play any 9AM games. It just makes TFC's group stage that much harder. Looking at the schedule only Chicago and NYCFC have two 9AM games like TFC. All other teams are let off easier.

The Reds originally only had one 9 am game, the last one vs New England. The DC match became a 9 am Sunday morning affair after it was had to be moved from the Friday night due to their late arrival in Florida.

[ag futbol]

On another note:

Atlanta imploding playing Cinci and losing after down to 10 within 26 minutes and then another straight red in extra time.


****
The momentum swings in some of these games is wild. TFC blowing a two goal lead looks like nothing in retrospect. At least we held on for a point.

[Joe Kool]

The Reds originally only had one 9 am game, the last one vs New England. The DC match became a 9 am Sunday morning affair after it was had to be moved from the Friday night due to their late arrival in Florida.

Yeah for sure. I know rescheduling is a pain but maybe they should be looking into moving the next TFC morning game and switching in some teams that haven't had one.

[OgtheDim]

The Leafs will be playing in a bubble situation here in Toronto.

The Jays are not cleared to play home games here yet - there is serious talk they will be playing home games in Buffalo.


EDIT

Not so fast

https://twitter.com/lauraarmy/status/1283858770175696897


Provincial approval but not city or federal yet

[Red CB Toronto]

I am really hoping they let limited fans in, it can be done with distancing measures in place. Sell say 5,000 tickets , raise money for the charity. Indiana has let fans attend Indy 11 games and they have far more cases than even Canada as a whole.


EDIT

Not so fast

https://twitter.com/lauraarmy/status/1283858770175696897


Provincial approval but not city or federal yet

[OgtheDim]

Its not the Ontario people I'm worried about its all the people coming up from Florida & other US parts

+

the Jays going in and out of various cities including Florida.


Jays can isolate at the Dome - that might actually work.


TFC going to isolate incoming teams where? Hotel X?