D.C. United loses first preseason match, USWNT wins to open Olympic qualifying, and more: Freedom Kicks for January 29, 2020

Happy Wednesday, everyone. A ton of news went down yesterday, so let’s get started:

Reports: D.C. United loses 3-1 to Montreal Impact in preseason opener - Black & Red United

If D.C. United and Montreal Impact play in the preseason and there’s no stream and both teams are cryptic about it even occurring even though both promoted it, did the preseason actually happen?

USWNT opens Olympic qualifying with a rusty 4-0 victory - Stars & Stripes FC

The United States struggled at times, but they eventually pulled away deep in the second half for a 4-0 victory over Haiti to open up Olympic qualifying.

D.C. United in talks with NBC Sports Washington for local TV rights - Washington Post

D.C. United looks to be close to having a TV deal with NBC Sports Washington in place before the season starts. No word on if that would include a local Spanish feed as well, but hopefully it will.

In Audi Field news, there are some long overdue improvements going in at Gate A:

And, for some, some “improvements” that many won’t like:

I, for one, seriously can’t wait to attend a DC Defenders game. Also interesting: there’s now a pulley system on both ends for the goalpost netting. I wonder if that remains in place for the supporters end this season.

Jesus Ferreira reportedly commits to USMNT over Colombia - Stars & Stripes FC

Jesus Ferreira may not have his paperwork ready in time for the United States Men’s National Team’s match against Costa Rica this weekend, but he’s reportedly made his firm commitment to the program over Colombia.

Report: Atlanta United shopping Tito Villalba to Paraguayan suitors - MLS

Atlanta United is reportedly looking at suitors for Tito Villalba Hector Villalba in Paraguay. Will the last Atlanta player left please turn out the lights at Mercedes-Benz Stadium before you go?

Ada Hegerberg: Lyon striker suffers ACL rupture in knee - BBC

Bad news for women’s soccer, as Ada Hegerberg of Olympique Lyonnais ruptured her ACL. Tough break, and hopefully her recovery is as quick as it can be so we see her back on the field.

Kobe Bryant honoured ahead of AC Milan’s Coppa Italia match - ESPNFC

The memorials keep coming for Kobe Bryant, as AC Milan, his favorite soccer club, honored him before their Coppa Italia match.

Eriksen leaves Tottenham to join Serie A giants Inter Milan - ESPNFC

Christian Eriksen is leaving Tottenham Hotspur for Inter Milan. Inter beat several teams to his signature.

That’s what I got for today. Hit the comments and discuss it all.