Oakland Roots SC went into the final night of the 2026 USL Championship regular season on Saturday, Oct. 24, with other results around the league already in their favor. A win at Sacramento Republic FC would have clinched a playoff spot. The Roots led 2-1 at halftime at Heart Health Park, then lost 3-2.
How it unfolded
- 2nd minute: Alfredo Midence put Sacramento ahead from a tight angle after a short corner. His shot deflected off a Roots defender past goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh.
- Sacramento seemed to double the lead minutes later, but the goal was ruled offside.
- 45th minute: Jesus De Vicente sent a free kick into the box. Danny Trejo finished the loose ball to tie it 1-1.
- 45th+ minute: In first-half stoppage time, De Vicente ran up the left side and crossed to Peter Wilson, who scored from close range. Oakland led 2-1.
- 81st minute: Lee Desmond scored on a free kick for Sacramento to make it 2-2.
- 90th minute: Substitute Kyle Edwards scored the winner on a counterattack.
The numbers
According to the match report published by the Alameda Post, Sacramento outshot Oakland 18-9, and had eight shots on goal to Oakland's five. Byaruhanga and Michael Edwards both got yellow cards for Oakland.
What's next
The club said its late-season push showed "the seeds have been sown to grow further in the offseason," and that it aims to "return stronger in 2027." Earlier this month, the Roots played their final match at the Coliseum.