5 Must See Matches for the 2026 Season

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vs. FC Tulsa (March 9th)

Ok this might be a cop out using the season opener as a must-see match. But the Republic got a rough draw with the defending Western Conference champion making the trip to Sacramento to open the 2026 season. Tulsa swept the Republic in the regular season series, so this will be a very early measuring stick to see where the Republic stands against the a team that made it to the championship.

at Athletic Club Boise (July 11th)

vs. Sporting JAX (August 1st)

As things stand, barring any construction delays, this match will be the last State Fair match for the Republic. As the club is set to move into its new Railyards Stadium for the 2027 season. State Fair matches have been a staple to the Republic's season every year. And its just fun to see all the carnival rides in the background. So take this last chance to grab some fair food and watch the Republic take on a league newbie in Sporting JAX.

at New Mexico United (September 26th)

vs. Oakland Roots (October 24th)

Man they really couldn't have given a better opponent as the regular season finale. We both know these two teams despise one another. And despite the historical record, Oakland can still put up a fight. We know how close the Western Conference can get with the playoff standings. And I will be curious to see where the Roots are in the standings heading into this one. But, a rivalry matchup with potential playoff implications on the line as the season finale? What else could you want? If Oakland are still alive at this point and can make this a competitive match, expect there to be fireworks.