It all comes to a head on Tues eve, OCSC & the historic TImbers, the victor gets the spoils $1.1 million, the title and a berth in the CCL of next year, a huge prize.
FIrst up was the coach of Orlando, Oscar Pareja. He was asked about getting FC Dallas there, that he knows the games and how big is it to return to them. His reply was it is great to represent the team internationally, it is important for the Club to showcase players getting in the team in a more noticable place. Next if he was surpised in reaching the final, the confidence in his players, was getting there due to their grasping anything in particular. The players have a style that was worked on by the staff that took over and all are suportive with the wins was his reply. When asked about the defensive side of the game, with giving up no more than a goal in any game in the tourney, was it due to their compact play that was their key in defense. The questioner did well to note this he informed, it is good that the defense is getting credit as the goals usually get all the attention. All should play for joy and goals, attacking draws more attention, there are some errors they hope to correct and get better but have played well. In the brief history of the team, they have yet to see the playoffs how vital it was asked is it that they are there now. Coach stated it is easier to build while winning. That they have begun a project that he hopes will continue evan after he and his staff are gone, winning is of course #1 but HOW they win should last.
Next up Chris Mueller. It was put to this 3rd year player how is the team feeling as they head into this big game. He informed they have been having good results, excited for opponent and to bring the trophy home. The impact of Oscar, the running of the game and asked to reflect on it. Chris stated the results show it has been good, steady play and quality have shone through. Asked how to treat this next game. There is nothing to do he informed but prepare, not to be nervous. What does he see in MLS that has them doing so well in this tourney. Mueller stated, he brings something there in results not just talk believe and get results. He began a book club and informed that when he was a sophmore in college he came across a book that has been life altering, but not dropping the author or books name. He wants to use the paltform that he has to spread the word that there are books out there that will help people.
Orioal Russell followed up. He was asked what does he expect, and replied a great result that they hope to win. Next was what does Portland bring to the midfield and how to beat that. They have he said a great midfield, great team, and that his team must be at their best. They must be tough, full of self belief, getting to the final has been a blessing. He had reached the CCL with SKC how great would it be to return. He told it would be amazing, that the club gets there not him. To go back to great international competition is a great position for exposure to different teams and players. He was asked about what Nani brings to the team. That he is a very good player, a great leader, has a lot of expericence and great for all especially the young players to learn from him. When asked about few giving the team credit he explained it is a difficult game that they play. How he was asked was the last month in the bubble, if it has gotten quieter as the other teams have fallen out. He does feel safer in the bubble, it has been great they are now a tighter team. There time is very programmed, gym, train, treatment, and getting to know other players better.
Next up was Portland.
Diego Valeri was as asked if the CCL has been talked about much and if it serves as motivation. He stated that yes, it has been talked about, this is a great opportunity, getting trophies is good, they want to compete internationally. They may now get that in one game, to put the team to the level of prestige sought. He has seen less time and told of that, each player has the same role., giving the team what it needs. The staff plans that, there have been some close games, and the players were very focused. As a sub he still must effect the game at his best level, his role is the same, to help the team, create chances, connect lines and manage the base of the game, that is why he has adapted well. How great is it to now maybe win it after a 4-5 month gap. After time home with no team training it has been a long process, great feeling to be back to training. Their #1 thing has been they knew of this chance, focus on it is what got them here now they focus on the game and trophy.It was put to him that Nani is the face of one team while Diego is that of his, how does this compare. He told it is clear Nani is quality with experience, talent and has been key during his time in the league. That Nani came to camp and motivated the team that began last year and has come to this brilliant tourney.
Sebastian Blanco was next up. They went to the '18 MLS CUP, he arrived the year before what are the differences in the team. He said the final and tourney are different. The MIB is shorter so there are fewer opportuinities to win as opposed as the CUP. How big would a win be and go to the CCL, he said it is the goal, it is prestige etc. gives a look at different teams and exposure especially for the young players. He has hit some key goals thus far and are there any adjustments to make for OCSC. Blanco said it is the same with 11 players and a goal, that there is not much mystery to it. Asked about getting to another final with Gio, yes they like finals to go as far as may to compete and that over the 3 years it has been the same style. HIs quality of play was brought up. He informed yes that '18 was a good year for him, he had many chances,now they are finding the goal that he feels better if it is a team thing if all defend that is ok. The final with Seattle and Portland they are in them often it goes to the level of their quality.
Coach Saverese was last. He opened stating he is very confident going into the final. Their being here is due to the great work of the players from their time in quarentine , to their behaviors, the various stages of training, keeping a positive mentality. From day 1, game-by-game they gave their best and will be the same despite a different opponent. To tell more of Valeri starting or not. He informed he did not start but 2 games and it is made out to be a big deal. That pair of games coach felt it was ideal for the moments when he is in, he always makes a difference , always a key, they need group strength, and he has been a great part of the games. He was asked to tell of his scouting of the team and Nani, OCSCS has done a great job to reach the final and Oscar did not change much. A process and find the strengths & weaknesses of the opponent. He has 1 more game, play the same and know what it means and be mature to do it. It was put to him if his side has an advantage in big games. On the field he stateed the game is not pre thought and all must perform in the game, keep balance, to reslove situations collaborate and they enter equally. Called on to speak on the differences and simlarities of both teams. Both seek to do well on defense and balance, There are small things in different systems. They are clear on their principals of play while allow the players creativity to come out. Also that Orlando has gained confidence each game.