Future MLS stars on display in College Cup
It’s a big weekend coming up for both U.S. and college soccer. The NCAA College Cup comes to a finish this weekend, and for many fans across the country it is the first chance to get a look at some of the best young players about to crack the professional ranks.
The four surviving schools are Akron, North Carolina, Wake Forest and Virginia, with the semifinals scheduled for Friday and the championship slated for Sunday. Story lines abound, with Akron eying a undefeated season and Virginia in the midst of 11 consecutive shutouts.
Plenty of potential MLS players will be on display in these three matches, and with the January combine and draft less than a month away, here’s a look at some of the players to watch:
Ike Opara, Wake Forest, Defender: The hulking central defender has already made somewhat of a name for himself, playing with the U-20 squad over in Egypt. While it wasn’t his best performance, Opara has the right combination of size, speed and tactical acumen to succeed on the next level.
Teal Bunbury, Akron, Forward: A dazzling forward hailing from Canada, Bunbury has been a key element in Akron’s undefeated season. The Zips’ striker is only a sophomore, though a move to MLS could be on the cards as the decision looms.
Tony Tchani, Virginia, Midfielder: Another sophomore, Tchani is a sensational playmaker with speed that belies his 6’4" frame. Injuries have plagued him in the past, but if he were to leave school early there’s no question he should be a top five selection.
Corben Bone, Wake Forest, Midfielder: One of Wake’s most important playmakers, Bone runs the offense, with much of the offense going through him each match. He’s another underclassman who won’t necessarily leave school, but one with a chance to make a splash if he makes the leap.
Zach Loyd, North Carolina, Defender: Loyd is an interesting case. Despite suffering through a few niggling injuries, Loyd recovered well enough to earn a selection to the All American first team. While Loyd won’t necessarily come in as a top five pick, he is versatile — think Geoff Cameron of the Houston Dynamo.