RIGHT OUT OF THE GATE

with Eastern Conference rivals Montreal, Toronto FC and D.C. United. Each team will play a minimum of three games and a maximum of seven. Arena understands the importance of maximizing points early in group play and that a positive result against the Impact is essential.

“It’s very important, it’s going to be our first experience (in the tournament),” said Arena. “I think, emotionally, starting with three points is important in order to do well.

“Like I said, we’re prepared but we know it’s going to be a tough match. We faced them in the first match of the season. I think we are ready and hopefully we can come away with three points.”

Arena may not have a handle on how his team will perform on the pitch at this point in the process, but his emphasis on a strong start found a home with the rank and file.

“It’s massive, it’s massive,” said Revolution keeper Matt Turner, who enjoyed a breakout season in 2019 and was a late addition to the U.S. National Team roster in November.

“Any time you’re in this type of tournament, getting something out of your first game is crucial. You don’t want to fall behind. If you lose, you’re already behind another team three points.

“Getting off to a good start positions you well to get in the knockout stage and be able to manage your team’s bodies and manage games and those types of things. Not to mention all these games count towards the league.

“Hopefully, we can do well here and carry that into whatever comes next.”

When the Revs battled Chicago to a 1-1 tie on March 7, Arena’s starting 11 consisted of Adam Buksa, Gustavo Bou, Teal Bunbury and Cristian Penilla at forward, Diego Fagundez and Wilfried Zahibo in the midfield with Andrew Farrell, Henry Kessler, Brandon Bye and DeJuan Jones at the back end.

Brad Knighton started in goal in place of Turner, who suffered a slight knee injury against the Impact. Turner will be the keeper of record in the rematch.