Welcome to the professional soccer map, CT United FC!
The MLS NEXT Pro expansion side are set to host their first-ever home match in Matchweek 6, welcoming Columbus Crew 2 to the University of Connecticut’s Morrone Stadium in Storrs, CT. One of two venues they'll call home this year, with upcoming matches also taking place at Yale University's Reese Stadium in New Haven, CT.
Viewing info:
CT United FC vs. Columbus Crew 2Â
Saturday, April 11 | 6 PM ET | MLSNEXTPro.com, OneFootball | Tickets
What to know:
- CT United are led by head coach Shavar Thomas, a longtime MLS and Jamaica Men's national team mainstay.
- Battling the eight-team Eastern Conference playoff cutline, CT United sits 10th (6pts.), looking to leapfrog Crew 2 in sixth (8pts.)
- MLS NEXT Pro vet striker Ibrahim Kasule leads the team with two goals in their first four matches, and midfielder Robbie Mora leads all production with one goal and two assists.
Key players
Alex Monis, midfielder: Bringing in some valuable league experience, team captain Monis was vital to Chicago Fire FC II and New England Revolution II the last couple of years, posting 16g/7a in 62 matches in the league. He represents the Philippines on the international stage, earning 16 caps and counting for the Azkals.Â
Ibrahim Kasule, midfielder/forward: Also a known commodity, Kasule joined CT United on loan from nearby Red Bull New York, where he mostly featured in MLS NEXT Pro for RBNY II, boasting a whopping 28g/14a in 64 appearances. Kasule represents Uganda in international soccer and received his first senior call-up in 2023.Â
Anthony Ramos, goalkeeper: An exciting newcomer, Ramos, most recently of the Liga MX giants Tigres UANL organization, grew up in the LA Galaxy Academy and has represented both Mexico and the United States youth internationally.
The story so far
Cashing in on the big blind in Matchweek 1, CT United made a statement with a 3-1 road win over FC Cincinnati 2. In Matchweek 3, they got a proper dose of MLS NEXT Pro and posted a 2-1 comeback over perennial powerhouse Philadelphia Union II. Hitting quicksand in Matchweeks 2 and 4, their early momentum has been balanced with losses to Chattanooga FC and New England Revolution II.
Making waves
Apart from their maiden voyage in MLS NEXT Pro competition, CT United made history by fielding their U-15s as the first-ever Connecticut-based Academy to participate in the Generation adidas Cup, which took place in March.Â
MLSNEXTPro.com sat down with founding club co-owners Michelle and André Swanston, General Manager Denis Hamlett, and coach Thomas in recent weeks to celebrate Women's History Month and Black History Month.
Get to know the CT United leadership:
