The doubters are what makes Felipe stronger.
The D.C. United midfielder is fueled by Toronto FC being considered favorites when the Eastern Conference foes square off Monday (9 am ET | ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, TSN, TVAS) in the MLS is Back Tournament.
“Everyone is counting us out,” Felipe said on the Gressel Special Episode 6. “That’s what i love about it. Everyone is thinking that we come here and we’re going to be last in the group and Toronto are going to be the favorites. OK, so if they are the favorites, let’s beat the favorites and let's put our name to grab.”
The Brazilian knows the recent history, with Toronto FC defeating D.C. United in extratime in Round One of the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs.
Toronto FC went on a run to the MLS Cup Final, while D.C. United were left to lick their wounds and await their next encounter.
“I still have that feeling after the game, that picture and that feeling when we lost against them,” Felipe said. “But this is a new thing, a new opportunity for us.”
Felipe’s motivation isn’t just on revenge, it’s about making history in Orlando.
“For us, it’s just prove a point and prove who we are,” the veteran added. “We have an opportunity here to win something nobody ever won. To make history and to make this name be where they deserve to be”
