Omaha Kings Battle Chicago Mustangs in Epic Double Header Showdown

[Omaha, NE - Jan. 29, 2024]
Omaha Kings FC recently embarked on a thrilling double header against their long-standing rivals, the Chicago Mustangs, in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. The matches, held on January 27th and 28th, 2024, at the Grand Sports Arena, were nothing short of electrifying, showcasing the intensity and passion that exploded between both teams.


January 27th Match: Omaha Kings at Chicago Mustangs (7pm/Chicago, IL)

The first encounter between these fierce competitors unfolded on a Saturday night, setting the stage for a riveting showdown. Both teams fought tooth and nail, delivering an exhilarating performance that had fans on the edge of their seats.

The game commenced with Chicago's Dario Gamboa scoring early in the first quarter, swiftly followed by another goal from Nestor Dominguez, giving the Mustangs an early lead. Despite Omaha's valiant efforts, they trailed by two goals at the end of the second quarter.

However, the Kings rallied in the third quarter, showcasing their resilience with goals from Bobby Jaffery, Gabi Gaiotto, and Daniel Zuckweiler. With tensions running high, both teams exchanged blows in the final quarter, leading to a nail-biting finale. With less than 30 seconds to the final buzzer, Omaha's Manuel Lira secured a crucial goal, forcing the game into a thrilling overtime.

In a heart-stopping finale, Omaha's Andy Rodriguez emerged as the hero, clinching the golden goal and securing a hard-fought victory for the Kings with a final score of 6-5.


Key Performers and Highlights

  • Andy Rodriguez crowned Man of the Match from his Golden Goal overtime winning goal

  • Omaha Goal Scorers: Bobby Jaffery (1 goal), Gabi Gaiotto (1 goal), Daniel Zuckweiler (1 goal), David Panter (1 goal), Manuel Lira (1 goal), Andy Rodriguez (Overtime winning goal)

  • Players with assists: Morgan Penn (1 assist), David Panter (1 assist)

  • The game concluded with multiple injuries sustained on Omaha’s side, including players Leonides Mejia, Manuel Lira, Morgan Penn, and Say Say


January 28th Match: Omaha Kings at Chicago Mustangs (1pm/Chicago, IL)

The intensity carried over into the following day's matchup as Omaha looked to maintain their momentum against the Mustangs. The Kings started strong, with Bernardo Torres netting an early goal. However, Chicago quickly retaliated, setting the stage for another epic battle.

Throughout the game, both teams traded blows, with Omaha's Bernardo Torres delivering a standout performance, securing a hat-trick alongside another standout performer, Gabi Giaotto. Despite their best efforts, the Kings fell short in the final moments with Chicago edging out a narrow victory, ending in a final score of 10-9.

Regardless of the final result, Omaha showcased unwavering determination and resilience, with several players stepping up to fill the gaps left by injuries sustained from the day before. Special recognition goes to Rodrigo Barajas, Caio Brito, and Matu Chol for their commitment and dedication to the team's cause.


Key Performers and Highlights

  • Bernardo Torres was crowned Man of the Match for an outstanding performance, including a successful shootout, as well as securing a hat trick.

  • Gabi Giaotto had a remarkable performance as well, securing a hat trick with a crucial goal in the last 20 seconds of the game, where the atmosphere almost shifted into anticipation of another possible overtime match.

  • Overall Omaha goal scorers: Bernardo Torres (3 goals), Stevie Siy (1 goal), Daniel Zuckweiler (1 goal), Jeff Sumaili (1 goal), Gabi Gaiotto (3 goals)

  • Omaha players Manuel Lira, Leonides Mejia, and Morgan Penn did not play this match due to injuries sustained from the previous day.

  • Special recognition goes to Rodrigo Barajas, Caio Brito, and Matu Chol for stepping up and filling in for injured players, as well as making the grueling trip from Omaha to Chicago early Sunday morning to support their teammates.


As the dust settles on this captivating double header, the Omaha Kings FC emerge with heads held high, ready to face the upcoming challenges that lie ahead in their quest. Up next, they will be making the trip to Denver, Colorado, for another match up against the Colorado Bucks on February 3rd. Stay up to date with all the latest news and announcements by following the Omaha Kings on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or omahakingsfc.com.