What has the day-to-day has looked like on the training field over the past two and a half weeks in anticipation of the upcoming Semifinal?
It's been a little bit difficult with no games on the weekends, but we've tried to stay in a good rhythm with the intrasquad game that we had here last Saturday. But now, the group is really ready and determined to get it back and playing against a different opponent.
How did the intrasquad match help your group stay motivated and competitive amidst the long stretch without MLS play?
It's really good. It's really difficult balancing I think it was like 20 something-days in between games. It's always good to be in a rhythm, especially at this time of the year when teams that are hot usually are the ones that succeed and go far in the playoffs and MLS Cup. S, having a small game was really good. We had two set teams. We had jerseys, we had real refs, we had real stadium noise through the speakers on the training field. So, it was good. It was a lot of fun and everyone enjoyed it. Got a good run in. So, we'll be ready for Sunday night
Now you and your teammates are back in a typical matchweek progression ahead of the semifinal coming up on Sunday. They're a very familiar opponent, even though they’ll have a few guys missing for various reasons. What does this NYC team bring to the table?
You know, they had to go on the road and win two games in Charlotte on the road in the playoffs. So, we know they're dangerous away from home, even with the injuries. You never want that, you know. Andres Perea played here for a little bit., I wish him all the best in recovery. And same with Alonso Martinez, he tore his ACL. It's really unfortunate, you know want to see that with anybody, in any circumstances, but we still understand that they're a very dangerous team. They have a lot of quality on the ball. The game at home for the Supporters' Shield game was really edgy, really fighty, like all the other times we've played them in playoffs or in big game situations. So it'll be a good fight, good test. But being at home will be extremely helpful with our fans.
This is the team you beat to securfe the Supporters' Shield – pretty much every match against New York City becomes an intense one. Is it safe to say that’ll be the case this weekend?
You know, they don't like us really. We don't like them. So it's going to be a real challenge, also because of what's on the line with the conference final. It's that time of the year.
It’s been a few weeks, but this team is obviously still focused on the opportunity to win another trophy. Do you have a message for the fans about this weekend’s game and how their presence will be a difference-maker?
Anytime a trophy is on the line, it's really important. You never know when it could be your last. So, we hope to get just one step closer. Hopefully we accomplish our goal by getting two more trophies, but if you can get there on Sunday, I know that Eagles are at Cowboys before us, but we need all the fans that we can have come support at home.
A teammate of yours, Danley Jean Jacques earned a spot in the 2026 World Cup this week. What does it mean to you to watch one of your teammates be able to achieve such an awesome accomplishment?
Yeah, playing at the World Cup is the highest stage of soccer. That tournament is the thing that you dream of as a kid, and to be able to compete for his country, such a small country, and it's been 50 years, I believe, since they've last been in it. It's an amazing accomplishment to reach. I wish them all the best in the future with that competition, and hopefully he'll come back here and be ready to play another important game on Sunday.
