Whitecaps Win Canadian Derby on Decision Day in MLS

Vancouver Whitecaps FC warmed up for the playoffs with a win at their rivals' home on Saturday.

The Caps piled more misery on CF Montreal, who finished 29th in the combined standings.

Caps Ease to Victory

Vancouver were the form team heading into the derby, winning three of four, while Montreal had lost four and tied two of their previous six.

Vancouver dominated possession, had more shots, and left Quebec with a comfortable 2-0 victory.

It was a goalless first period at Saputo Stadium, but Cheikh Sabaly opened the scoring for the away team just five minutes after halftime. Mihail Gherasimencov doubled Vancouver’s advantage with seven minutes remaining.

Contrasting Seasons for the Canadians

It has been an abysmal campaign for Montreal, who lost 20 regular-season MLS matches. Interim boss Philippe Eullaffroy failed to turn the club’s fortunes around, with Impact picking up just six MLS wins.

With Sporting Kansas City claiming a surprise victory over San Diego FC on the final day, Montreal finished joint bottom of the combined MLS table.

In contrast, Vancouver have had a season to remember, finishing top of the Western Conference table. Jesper Sorensen’s side collected 64 points after 19 wins, seven draws, and eight losses.

Sorensen’s Side Ready for Postseason

Vancouver enter the playoffs in fine fettle, winning four of their last five in MLS. Since a narrow loss to Colorado Rapids, the Blue-and-White have won consecutive games against San Diego, Seattle Sounders FC, and Montreal.

They have scored 11 goals across those three matches and 74 overall. Only Inter Miami CF have scored more goals in MLS this term.

Vancouver made it all the way to the MLS Cup final last year, losing to Inter Miami in the big game. Can they go one better and get their hands on the trophy this year?

The in-form Caps will be a feared team in the playoffs, and Sorensen and his boys will fancy their chances of getting the job done.