We made it to the Top 8 of the Men’s NCAA Tournament, but many of the top teams were off the field for too long. Washington and Stanford have retreated, but Virginia and Kentucky are also watching from their homes. The frenzied nature of play so far has resulted in some unexpected contests, with teams like Clayton, Portland and Vermont making deep runs. Which four will play in Cary, NC? Here’s a preview of all the games.
Duke vs. Clayton, December 3rd, 1pm
This is where Clayton’s run finally ends. The Blue Jays have been successful in the face of adversity this season, and he has two come-from-behind wins in his NCAA Tournament games against seeded opponents. They are a solid team, with a back five that provides a solid base for their fluid offense. Striker Duncan, who has scored 21 goals, probably doesn’t have a better attacking player in this country than his McGuire. If he can get into a good area, the Blue Jays have a chance.
But a more balanced Duke team could win. The Blue Devils haven’t always played the prettiest brand of football this year, but they have smashed results. An early exit from the ACC tournament seems more like a fleeting moment than a devastating defeat. Their attacking options are plentiful, but it all starts with Peter Stroud’s play in midfield. Thanks to his passing range and sense of the game, he can boss any game from the center of the pitch. .
Prediction: Duke 3-2 Clayton
Pittsburgh v Portland, Dec. 3, 1:00 p.m.
Pittsburgh relied on star power to beat Kentucky, with two of their best attacking players scoring goals. First, Valentin Noel deflected a cross-home from close range. Bertan Jackson then shot into the top corner to win the game with less than three minutes remaining. It was a belated awakening for two of his players who hadn’t always been at their best this season. If they try again, Pittsburgh will love the chance.
Portland has been shaping up at the right time and their defense has been very tight in recent weeks. The Pilots have conceded only one goal in their last five games and don’t give many chances. Henceforth, they were opportunistic. Brandon Cambridge is their main threat with 12 goals and 7 assists. However, Sebastian Nava has established himself as a top playmaker with his 12 assists to date. Perhaps they’ll need to find some fluidity in their offense to win over a dangerous Pittsburgh side.
Prediction: Pittsburgh 1-0 Portland
Syracuse vs. Vermont, Dec. 3, 2pm
Syracuse developed a tendency to steal goals in the second half. Whether it’s Lebonte Johnson, Nathan Opoku or Lorenzo Boselli, Orange turned to the number of match winners for last-minute drama. Precious moments aren’t just luck either. In fact, this team always has a goal. That’s a nuisance for Vermont.
However, catamounts have their own weapons. Alex Nagy is fun to watch, sharp and cool in the final third. Max Murray has developed into a capable goalscorer, and the cast around them can deal damage in a variety of ways.Starting quickly and scoring early will be key against Syracuse. If the Catamounts can find their rhythm, they may be celebrating a spot in the College Cup.
Prediction: Syracuse 2-1 Vermont
UNC Greensboro v Indiana, Dec. 3, 5 p.m.
UNC Greensboro were sent off last as they needed penalties to beat Stanford. But it was a foregone conclusion, and Chris Rich’s team put in a solid all-around performance to beat No. Cardinal of the second rank. Bouncing the putative tournament favorite should give the Spartans a confident head into the contest against Indiana. Star forward Marco Afonso also seems to have rediscovered his scoring ability.
But Indiana never goes away. The Hoosiers got healthy at the right time and are playing their best football this season. Ryan Wittenbrink was a key player in the closing stages, scoring and assisting as the team reached the playoffs. Behind, Daniel Muny is in shape and back to his best, anchoring a solid backline. This is a balanced side and a tough out for opponents.
Prediction: UNC Greensboro 2-1 Indiana
