SALEM, ORE. - This past Friday, Capital FC's Atletico (4-2-1) team celebrated a 3-2 victory against Portland FC (0-6-2) at home in McCulloch Stadium. The victory not only marked their first-ever match at McCulloch Stadium but also propelled them into playoff contention.

Right from the opening whistle, Atletico displayed their sharp awareness as they positioned themselves strategically in and around PDX FC's goal, eagerly anticipating a corner kick from Atletico forward Osvaldo Santana. Their persistent efforts were rewarded in the early stages of the game when defender Francisco Anton in the 6’ capitalized on a perfectly timed through ball, calmly slotting it into the back of the net to score his first goal with Capital FC and set his team in the lead.

“It was a close one!,” said Anton. “I found the ball in the box and just tried to put it in the net. I think it was important because it was the first goal, but without the team's work, we couldn't have gotten this win. So, I’m very happy, and hopefully I can score more in the future.” 

However, following Anton’s goal, Portland FC quickly responded with a spirited fightback. In the 12’,33 Portland FC defender Julian Conze scored in an attempt to level the scoreline. Undeterred, Atletico maintained their composure and continued to dictate the tempo of the game.

The game's intensity grew as the match progressed, with each side striving to gain the upper hand.

With the clock ticking minutes toward halftime, Atletico forward Yutaro Tsukada unleashed a shot that left the PDX FC defense helpless. Tsukada's unleashed an unstoppable shot from outside the box, sending the crowd and players into a celebration of hugs and piggybacks.  

With the score sitting 2-1 at the half in Atletico’s favor as the second half kicked off, the energy on the field was palpable as both teams looked to seize control of the match. Atletico aimed to build upon their momentum and extend their lead, while Portland FC sought to claw their way back into contention. 

The second half's first goal was made in the 62’ by Portland FC midfielder Timothy Ennin. The goal sparked a surge of intensity and urgency as both teams fought tooth and nail to gain the upper hand on the tied game. 

With the clock ticking down and the pressure mounting, Capital FC was able to seal the victory with a decisive goal by forward Osvaldo Santana from Campo Grande, Brazil.

In the 69', Atletico forward Shirashi orchestrated an expertly timed pass as he played the ball into the path of forward Santana and executed a left-footed volley that found the back of the net. The goal secured the win for Capital FC and showcased their ability to convert crucial opportunities.

“I think the result was great for us,” said Santana. “Now we can move on, just think about it, and fix our mistakes because we conceded two goals today. But I think we will be ready for Friday for sure."

The team's perseverance over the past weeks yielded rewarding results, seeding them as second in the highly competitive USL 2 Northwest Conference standings. 

Capital FC Atletico will face the Northwest League’s first-ranked Ballard FC on Friday, June 30th, followed by Oly Town FC on Sunday, July 2nd. They will return home Sunday, July 9, for a 2 PM rematch against Oly Town FC at McCulloch Stadium in Salem. You can get tickets here.

As the city of Seattle braces for a thrilling weekend of fútbol, Atletico is preparing to face their toughest competitors as they are gearing up for a challenging double-header against Oly Town FC and Ballard FC in Seattle. Both of these upcoming matches hold considerable weight, as they possess the potential to significantly impact Atletico's standings and shape the remainder of their season.

With the playoffs on the horizon, every pass, every goal, and every save will count as they strive to etch their names in USL 2 history.