Detroit City Wire

Detroit City FC's 2024 season concluded with a narrow defeat against the Tampa Bay Rowdies in a penalty shootout during the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. The match ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, but Tampa Bay advanced by winning the penalties 3-1.

Head Coach Danny Dichio made strategic changes to the lineup that secured victory over San Antonio FC in their previous game. Nate Steinwascher was brought in as goalkeeper, replacing Carlos Saldaña, while Laurent Kissiedou took Abdoulaye Diop's place in midfield.

The game began with Detroit taking early control. Maxi Rodriguez almost scored in the second minute following a pass from Ben Morris, but his shot missed the target. Despite maintaining possession for much of the opening period, both teams had opportunities to score.

In the 18th minute, Ben Morris forced a diving save from Tampa's keeper. However, moments later, Cal Jennings scored for Tampa Bay following a corner kick in the 19th minute. This shifted momentum towards Tampa Bay as they dictated play for most of the first half.

After halftime, Detroit regained control and equalized through an own goal by Nick Moon after pressure from Maxi Rodriguez in the 48th minute. The match intensified with several players receiving yellow cards shortly after.

Alex Villanueva nearly gave Detroit a lead with a long-range effort saved by Tampa’s goalkeeper in the 62nd minute. As time progressed, Tampa resumed dominance while Detroit found limited success on counterattacks or set pieces.

Detroit made substitutions late into regular time and extra time but neither team could break the deadlock leading to penalties.

During penalties, Nate Steinwascher initially kept hopes alive by saving attempts from Manuel Arteaga and Joshua Perez; however, Detroit failed to capitalize on these saves until Eddie Munjoma and Ben Morris converted their kicks in round three. Jordan Doherty then scored for Tampa while Elvis Amoh hit the crossbar during round four which was decisive as Lewis Hilton sealed victory for Tampa Bay in round five.

Despite this loss marking an end to their campaign; it was still Detroit City's best USL Championship season where they achieved their highest finish and hosted a playoff at Keyworth Stadium for first-time history achievement according club officials said afterwards."