Vancouver Whitecaps FC were founded in 1974 as a charter member of the NASL, they won that championship in 1979, but unfortunately, a couple of years later (1984) they folded due to financial problems. The Whitecaps were then re-launched in 1994 as an MLS expansion team. They have never won an MLS Cup, but they have won the Canadian Championship three times, in 2015, 2022 and 2023.
The Whitecaps have had a mixed season so far, currently in ninth place in the Western Conference in MLS. Whilst they have been potent in front of goal, they have been conceding in equal measure. They have scored 34 goals so far, which is the second best in the conference but have conceded 30 which is right in the middle of the pack. If they improve that they can surely cause more damage and have a good run in Leagues Cup 2023.
Vancouver will form part of West 3, along with Club Leon and Los Angeles Galaxy. Their first match will be on July 21 against Leon at BC Place at 10:30 p.m. ET.
Ryan Gauld: The creative spark
The Scottish midfielder started his career with Dundee United, where he made his professional debut in 2012. He then moved to Sporting CP in 2014, where he won the Portuguese Primeira Liga in 2015. From there, he joined the Vancouver Whitecaps in July 2021 and has gone on to make over 75 appearances.
Gauld is becoming more consistent with his performances in Vancouver and has shown why his creativity is so important in the middle of the park. He’s scored 5 times this season and added another 6 assists in 19 matches played.
Pedro Vite: The rising star
The versatile Ecuadorian began his career with Independiente del Valle, where he made his professional debut in 2020. He then moved to Vancouver Whitecaps FC in August 2021.
Vite has made over 50 appearances for Vancouver, and little by little is becoming more important to this side. He has scored 4 goals so far this season and has played in every match in Major League Soccer.
