Sporting Kansas City Head Coach Peter Vermes had nothing but good things to say about the New York Red Bulls on Monday.
"I think it takes a very well coached and determined team to get to this point. It will be a very, very good match," Vermes said on a conference call ahead of the 2017 U.S. Open Cup Final. "It will be a great atmosphere for both teams."
SKC is seeking their third Open Cup title since 2012 and their fourth overall, which would tie a record for most Open Cup championships among MLS teams.
The Red Bulls are playing in their second Open Cup Final, with their previous appearance coming in 2003.
New York Head Coach Jesse Marsch said the team is also looking forward to a tough matchup at Children's Mercy Park.
"We’re really looking forward to a great night," Marsch said. "We know we’ll have a really tough opponent. We’re really excited about this opportunity."
Vermes had a lot of good things to say about the Red Bulls and the way they play.
"They have great energy. They are very creative getting forward. They have very technical guys," Vermes said. "When you watch their games you know what’s coming. They have very hungry players in their team. They play at a very high tempo. We have the utmost respect for their team. We know it’s going to be a battle."
It will all come down to one game on Wednesday night at 9 PM ET.
"Both of our teams are trying to have an identity to be something specific," Marsch said. "We’re honored to be a part of. A big opportunity for us to be in this moment and hopefully take advantage of it."
The Open Cup Final will be broadcast nationwide on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes.
