July 2023 Archive: College Soccer vs MLS and Cleat‑Stretching Hacks
Welcome to the July 2023 roundup from BBC Football Central. In this month we posted two pieces that many fans asked for: a deep dive into which U.S. college soccer squads could hold their own against MLS clubs, and a hands‑on guide to stretching tight soccer cleats. Below you’ll find quick takeaways and why these topics matter.
Which College Teams Could Challenge MLS?
If you’ve ever wondered whether a top‑level college side could beat a professional MLS team, you’re not alone. The article broke down three programs that consistently produce talent, strong coaching, and a competitive schedule. First up is the University of Maryland, a perennial powerhouse that fields players who often get drafted. Next, the Stanford Cardinal, known for its tactical discipline and a track record of national titles. Finally, the University of Akron, which has a history of feeding MLS rosters with physically ready athletes.
The piece also compared each team’s style of play with the typical MLS approach. Maryland’s high‑press game mirrors what you see from clubs like Seattle Sounders, while Stanford’s possession‑based system looks a lot like LAFC’s. Akron’s direct, athletic style could exploit the slower transition phases of many MLS defenses. By looking at recent NCAA tournament performances and the number of players signed to MLS contracts, the article gave a realistic picture of who could actually pull off an upset.
Why does this matter? It shows the growing gap between college and pro levels, and it helps scouts and fans spot future MLS stars early. If you follow college soccer, you now have a short list of teams to keep an eye on during the upcoming spring season.
How to Stretch Tight Soccer Cleats
Ever bought a pair of cleats that felt a little snug, only to have them ruin a good game? The July post shared three simple methods to stretch them without breaking the shoe. First, use a shoe stretcher. Insert the device, turn the bolt, and leave it overnight. It gently expands the toe box and the width, making the fit more comfortable.
Second, the damp‑heat trick. Lightly mist the interior of the cleat with water, slip the shoes on, and wear thick socks while you walk around the house for about 30 minutes. The moisture and your body heat will soften the leather or synthetic material, allowing it to conform to your foot shape.
Third, try a commercial stretching spray. Spray the inside, let it sit for a minute, then wear the cleats with a snug sock for a couple of hours. The chemicals in the spray relax the fibers, giving you extra room where you need it most.
All three methods are cheap, easy, and can be done at home. The article also warned against over‑stretching, which can damage the shoe’s structure. A quick test after each method—checking for comfortable pressure points—ensures you don’t go too far.
In short, whether you’re scouting future MLS talent or fixing an uncomfortable pair of boots, July 2023 gave you solid, actionable advice. Bookmark these tips, share them with your team, and keep the game enjoyable.
