As the sun sets on Patriots Point, marking the end of another USL season, the stage is set for an unforgettable matchup in the 2023 USL Championship Final. The Charleston Battery, the stalwarts of the East, are playing the powerhouse Phoenix Rising from the West. This isn’t just a clash of teams, but a clash of philosophies, styles, and histories. The Battery, one of the oldest continuously operating professional soccer clubs in the United States, carries with it a legacy of resilience and consistency. On the other hand, Phoenix Rising, although a relatively newer club, has quickly established itself as a powerhouse in the league with its aggressive playstyle and never-say-die attitude. The match, kicking off at 5 p.m. AZ local time, promises to be a thrilling climax of a season where both teams defied expectations and overcame the odds to claim their respective conference titles. This final is not just a game, but a testament to their resilience, grit, and unyielding spirit from both sides.
Charleston Battery’s Journey
Charleston Battery has had a remarkable turnaround season, earning their first trip to the USL Championship Final since the 2012 season. They secured a 2-1 victory against Louisville City FC in the Eastern Conference Final. Augustine Williams and Arturo Rodriguez (former Phoenix Rising FC Player) were key players, both finding the net to secure the win. Rodriguez curled home a free kick from 25 yards in the fifth minute for his second goal of the postseason, while Williams doubled the lead just before the hour-mark (58th minute) from the penalty spot."I don’t think anybody expected us to be here, but we defied the odds and we’re here. We won the eastern conference" added Charleston's Leland Archer after the win against Louisville.
Phoenix Rising FC’s Path
Phoenix Rising, the western powerhouse, has its own tale of triumph. They rallied to claim their third Western Conference title in six seasons, silencing doubters with a 2-1 victory against Sacramento Republic FC. Emil Cuello scored the winner in second-half stoppage time at Heart Health Park, delivering his second game-winning goal in as many outings.
Juan Guerra, spoke about the team's journey: "There's a bit extra in everything, extra focus, extra awareness. The guys are happy where they are. This group became a team and now they are a family." He emphasized that every player understands their role and strives to give 100% every time, whether they're starting, on the bench or in the stands.
Panos Armenakas acknowledged Charleston's strength, saying, "They are a good team; they have had a solid season." He also noted the challenge of playing away from home but affirmed the team's resilience: "We've had good success regardless. We don't have our home fans, so we created a 'us vs. them' mentality."
Danny Trejo, emphasized the team's focus: "Every playoff game has been a final for us, we are just staying focused on the goal and look forward to this weekend to go win the game."
A Historic Final
The 2023 Championship Final is not just another game, but a historic event in the annals of the USL Championship. Both Charleston Battery and Phoenix Rising have had their share of ups and downs, but their journey to the final has been nothing short of extraordinary.
What makes this final historic is the remarkable comeback of both teams. Just a season ago, both clubs missed out on postseason action, a disappointment that could have demoralized any team. However, the Battery and Rising have shown exceptional resilience and determination, bouncing back from their setbacks to not only qualify for the playoffs but also make it to the final. This final also marks the first time these two teams are facing each other in a championship decider, adding another layer of excitement and anticipation to the match. So, tune in to ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, or SiriusXM FC to witness this historic final and cheer for your favorite team.
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