The MLS Cup has been won by Toronto FC over the Seattle Sounders. The 2-0 win came at the end of an exciting game with chances at both ends. Greg Vanney made a few decisions that played a big role in the win, including putting Michael Bradley at the base of a midfield diamond. Brian Schmetzer, on the other hand, regrets certain decision he made en route to the loss.
With the MLS final comes silly season. This year the fun is increased by the upcoming expansion draft for LAFC. Minnesota United has released its list of protected players, as has the rest of the league. The league has also released the list of free agents available for signing.
Along with free agency comes the ability to trade. Several teams have already done so, including Vancouver’s acquisition of Kei Kamara from the New England Revolution. Minnesota United also got in on the action and traded for Harrison Heath, the son of coach Adrian Heath.
The other big cup final of the weekend was Liga MX’s Apertura final, which was yet again won by the powerhouse Tigres.
News bits
FIFA apparently removed the person investigating the Russia World Cup bid. Vitaly Mutko, the person under investigation, has been banned from all Olympic games.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania could become an innovator of soccer. Rush Soccer is a group of academies that is about to relaunch a pro team (as opposed to a pro team creating an academy) after taking over the Harrisburg City Islanders.
The USMNT could be headed for a friendly with the French national team as a tune-up for Russia.
Christian Ramirez could be headed for the US men’s national team in January, according to Andy Greder
#MNUFC forward Christian Ramirez among 30 "you could expect" to make #USMNT camp in January, per @SInow. "Should be his chance to prove he belongs," Avi Creditor wrote.
— Andy Greder (@andygreder) December 7, 2017
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