UPSL Spring 2023 National Finals Preview – Chicago Nation FC
As the excitement builds ahead of the UPSL Spring National Finals, soccer fans across the country are gearing up for another edition of America’s premier, semi-pro National Championship event. One of the four teams set to travel to the National Finals this weekend is a top team representing the Midwest Central Conference and the Windy City.
Chicago Nation FC (9-1-0) are one of the last remaining undefeated teams in the UPSL and one of the league’s highest-scoring sides. After scoring 45 goals in the regular season and conceding only 7, they finished first in a very competitive Midwest Central Premier Division conference. The team then went on a post-season run that saw them score 11 goals in just four games, conceding only one.
Coach Garrett Hayward explains what it’s taken to get this group this far into the National Playoffs.
“We’ve taken and analyzed every win, every loss, and used everything up until this point as a learning experience. Everyone on this team believes in our system, our players, and our coaches. Hard work removes doubt and the boys have been working very hard. We believe this is our time.”
Going into the National Finals, the team will look towards center forward Zakhar Shkidchenko to lead the front line—the striker currently sits on an impressive 16 goals for the season. Behind him is a back line that has not conceded a goal in the last 3 games.
The Chicago Nation FC vs. AS Frenzi match can be viewed live this Friday on the official UPSL YouTube channel. Match coverage begins at 5:10pm EST. The National Championship match is set for this Sunday, August 6th with coverage beginning at 3:10pm EST. For more information regarding the National Playoffs please visit www.premier.upsl.com/playoffs
ABOUT UNITED PREMIER SOCCER LEAGUE
The UPSL was formed in 2011 and occupies the unofficial fourth tier of US Soccer. Across its Premier, Division 1, and Women’s leagues, more than 400 teams are competing nationwide. The UPSL is now the largest Pro Development League in North America and is a National Affiliate member of the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF). Each UPSL team is individually owned and operated. UPSL teams can participate in the U.S. Open Cup Qualifying Rounds through the league’s affiliation with USSF. More information about UPSL can be found at www.upsl.com or by following the league on Facebook. Contact: [email protected] / Media: [email protected]