San Jose Earthquakes vs. Sacramento Republic: 10 Bold Predictions

Bay Area soccer fans will be in for a treat at Kezar Stadium in San Francisco, Calif. as the Fourth Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup comes to town on June 11. Mark Watson’s San Jose Earthquakes take on Preki’s Sacramento Republic in a battle between MLS side and USL PRO affiliate. The winner of this match will either travel to the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Wash. to face the Seattle Sounders or host Irvine, Calif.’s very own PSA Elite.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PT/10 p.m. ET. Here are 10 Bold Predictions for Wednesday’s match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Sacramento Republic.

1. Shea Salinas will score

Shea Salinas is San Jose’s top provider in league play, with five assists in Major League Soccer. However, against Sacramento Republic, he will get to show his scoring ability and slip one past goalkeeper Dominik Jakubek (who will be mentioned later in these predictions).

2. Big saves from David Bingham

Goalkeeper David Bingham, a backup to Jon Busch, should get the start in this game. The MLS Multiplex is boldly predicting at least four saves in this game.

3. Here comes Steven Lenhart

You either love him, or you hate him. But Steven Lenhart is Steven Lenhart, and Steven Lenhart will score on the Republic on Wednesday.

4. J.J. Koval the surprise hero for the Quakes

If J.J. Koval is not starting for this game, he will come off the bench and become a hero. Koval shined in the CONCACAF Champions League and will look to improve on his rookie campaign with another goal.

5. Dominik Jakubek with under four saves

It will be a tough going for Sacramento Republic goalkeeper Dominik Jakubek. He will make under four saves in this tie. The Quakes will be coming after him.

6. Here comes Billy Schuler

Another player that should come off the bench to contribute for the Quakes is forward Billy Schuler. This will be a breakthrough game for Schuler, as he will score late in the contest for San Jose.

7. Thomas Stewart to score for Sacramento

This season, Republic forward Thomas Stewart has five goals in all competitions. Against the Quakes, he will add one more to his tally.

8. Rodrigo Lopez with a goal and assist

Rodrigo Lopez, a former OC Blues swingman, is now with the Republic and is making his presence known for Sac Rep. He will record a goal and an assist in this game against San Jose.

9. At least 40 fouls and four cards

In a battle between MLS powerhouse and USL PRO affiliate, this will be a test of will, guts, and physicality. The MLS Multiplex predicts at least 40 fouls and four cards in this match.

10. San Jose coasts to a big win

In a high-scoring game at Kezar Stadium, the San Jose Earthquakes will take the first step forward into contending for the U.S. Open Cup. Sacramento Republic will put up a fight, but the difference in skill and class will be apparent.

San Jose Earthquakes 4, Sacramento Republic 2