Deadspin: First-place Whitecaps stay focused as San Diego bids for an upset

San Diego faces elimination pressure

San Diego FC arrives in Vancouver six points behind the ninth-place Los Angeles Galaxy, though it has played one fewer game. A Wednesday loss would officially end its playoff hopes; a draw would also eliminate the club if Real Salt Lake beats Austin.

The team has not won in nine matches, but its last three have ended in draws. On Saturday, San Diego recovered from a two-goal deficit to tie Seattle 2-2, and Cedric Bakambu nearly scored a late winner.

Manager Mikey Varas said the immediate priority was recovering before the Vancouver match. He said the team needed to go there and earn three points.

Vancouver tries to steady form

The Whitecaps have 55 points and have spent much of the season atop the Western Conference. Their lead over Dallas is now one point after they won just once in their last six matches.

Vancouver lost 1-0 at Colorado on Saturday, closing a five-match road trip. Earlier, Ryan Gauld and Yadaly Diaby scored in a 2-1 victory over Austin on Oct. 17.

Thomas Muller has resumed full training after missing time with a hamstring injury. He had been sidelined since Oct. 6.

Sorensen prioritizes playing well

Nashville has secured the Supporters' Shield and an automatic place in next year's CONCACAF Champions Cup. Whitecaps manager Jesper Sorensen said preparing tactically for the postseason matters more to him than the race for first place.

Sorensen said his focus was on Vancouver's play, not Dallas. He also said the team should not define its approach around defending first place.