State of the Republic Podcast

08/18/2026

In this episode of State of the Republic, we celebrate Sacramento Republic FC’s important 1–0 home victory over Lexington SC in a crucial matchup against a team close to Republic in the standings. The winning goal once again came from Kyle Edwards off the bench, but this one was especially memorable—Edwards somehow managed to score with what looked like practically his toenail! 😂 We break down the goal, the match, and why this three-point win could be so important as the season continues.

We also preview Sacramento’s upcoming home matchup against Phoenix Rising FC, with Republic looking to build on the momentum from the Lexington victory.

Plus, we talk about Sacramento’s new third jersey and the club’s newest attacking addition, forward Cal Jennings, who was recently announced as a new Republic player.

PC

08/12/2026

In this episode of State of the Republic, we recap a difficult week on the road for Sacramento Republic FC, starting with a 1–0 loss at FC Tulsa last Wednesday. We then look back at Saturday’s 0–0 draw at the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, giving Republic a scoreless week across two away matches and just one point from the six available.

We also take a look at the latest USL Championship standings and where Sacramento currently sits as the season continues to unfold.

Finally, after two straight games on the road, Republic is finally back home! We preview the upcoming matchup against Lexington SC and talk about what Sacramento will need to do to get back in the win column in front of the home fans.

PC

https://www.sacsoccerpod.com/s1e271-a-scoreless-week-for-sac-republic/

08/03/2026

In this episode of State of the Republic, we break down Sacramento Republic FC’s dominant 5–0 victory over Sporting JAX in front of a packed crowd during the annual California State Fair Match. It was one of Republic’s most complete performances in recent memory, highlighted by Tyler Wolff’s first hat trick for the club (or as Sharon accidentally calls him... “Josh!” 😂), Lee Desmond scoring in his 400th career appearance, and Jared Timmer finding the net from a corner kick. We discuss all the biggest moments from an unforgettable night at Heart Health Park.

We also preview Sacramento’s busy week ahead with back-to-back road matches against FC Tulsa on Wednesday and the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, taking a look at both clubs’ recent form and what Republic can expect from each matchup.

Plus, we discuss Sacramento’s newest addition, Tim Leibold, who joins the club on a 25-day contract, and what he could bring to Republic during his time with the team.
PC

Listen/Watch - https://www.sacsoccerpod.com/s1e270-the-wolf-howls-were-heard-at-the-california-state-fair/

08/02/2026

08/02/2026

PortPower TX delivered the famous butter tortillas as promised! 💯 Thank you PortPower State of the Republic and have safe travels in a few hours (he’ll be in first class too, best seat in the plane after an amazing 5-0 win!!!)

07/29/2026

In this episode of State of the Republic, we break down Sacramento Republic FC’s impressive 3–1 road win over Oakland Roots at the historic Oakland Coliseum. If this truly was Sacramento’s final match at the Coliseum, Republic went out in style—improving to a perfect 3-0-0 record at the venue. We discuss the biggest moments from the victory, the standout performances, and what this result means as Sacramento continues its push up the USL Championship standings.

Luis was at the Coliseum for the match, so he shares what it was like experiencing the atmosphere in person, from the supporters and stadium environment to his overall matchday experience.

We also preview Sacramento’s upcoming home match against Sporting JAX, the annual California State Fair Match, where fans can enjoy free State Fair admission with their match ticket. Plus, we review the latest USL Championship standings and discuss where Republic sits as the playoff race continues to take shape.
PC 📷

Listen/watch https://www.sacsoccerpod.com/s1e269-the-edwards-brace-in-oakland/

07/22/2026

In this episode of State of the Republic, we break down Sacramento Republic FC’s 1–1 road draw against Charleston Battery, a hard-earned point against one of the top teams in the USL Championship. We discuss the key moments from the match, the performances that stood out, and what the result means as Republic continues its push through the season.

We also talk about some important club news, including Dominik Wanner’s departure from Sacramento Republic and the arrival of Alfredo Midence, discussing what both moves could mean for the club moving forward.

Plus, we preview Sacramento’s upcoming rivalry match against Oakland Roots, which will mark Republic’s final trip to the Oakland Coliseum before the Roots move into their new home. We also talk about California Storm’s WPSL playoff run.
Photo Credit
https://www.sacsoccerpod.com/s1e268-an-unpredicted-tie-at-charleston/

07/17/2026

In this episode of State of the Republic, we break down Sacramento Republic FC’s disappointing 2–0 loss to Athletic Club Boise in the final USL Cup group stage match. The result eliminates Sacramento from this year’s tournament, a tough ending after Republic’s memorable run to the USL Cup Final last season. We discuss what went wrong, what the result means, and where the team goes from here.

Our own Sharon made the trip to Boise, so she shares what it was like attending the match in person, including her thoughts on the stadium, the atmosphere, and the overall matchday experience before we dive into the game itself.

We also preview Sacramento’s upcoming USL Championship matchup against Charleston Battery, taking a look at Charleston’s recent form and what Republic can expect from one of the league’s top sides.

Plus, we check in on California Storm’s playoff journey and bring you the latest results from soccer clubs across California’s Central Valley.
Listen/Watch https://www.sacsoccerpod.com/s1e267-boise-was-too-hot-to-handle/

07/14/2026

Late post from 7-8-26 (stay tuned for upcoming episode re: USL Cup vs Boise)
In this episode of State of the Republic, we’re back talking Sacramento Republic FC after a couple of weeks focused on World Cup action! We break down Sacramento’s 2–1 home win over Rhode Island FC, discussing the key moments, standout performances, and what the victory means as Republic returns to league play.

We also take a look at the latest USL Championship standings, where Sacramento sits after picking up three important points and what the playoff picture is beginning to look like.

Plus, we preview Republic’s final USL Cup group stage match on the road against Athletic Club Boise. Sharon will be making the trip to Boise, so we talk about what to expect from the match and why this game is so important as Sacramento looks to advance in the Cup.

We also check in on the latest Central Valley soccer news, including California Storm continuing their playoff campaign, as well as Central Valley Fuego FC announcing another league change, this time moving from The League for Clubs to the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL).
Photo cred
Watch or listen at
https://www.sacsoccerpod.com/s1e266-a-much-needed-win-at-home-vs-rhode-island/

07/12/2026

So bummed for Jared Mazzola (broken digits or as he says, smashed) but so happy to see him and his wife 💕