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Republic FC Fans Unfazed By Report MLS Favors Minneapolis For Expansion

DAVIS (CBS13) – We've seen their success, game after game: sold out crowds, new investors, and nearly 9,000 season ticket holders for the 2015 season.

And Sacramento Republic FC fans say this success proves to Major League Soccer Sacramento is a goal for the league.

"I think Sacramento will get it. I mean look at our fan base, the Tower Bridge Battalion," said fan Jennifer Rodenhi.

The league is looking to expand to 24 teams by 2020.

The race is close, with Sacramento and Minneapolis competing for the 24th spot.

"Hey, we're here, give it to us, we deserve it," said fan Max Kenngott.

On Thursday, Minnesota website Northern Pitch posted an article saying MLS is leaning toward expanding the franchise in Minneapolis.

"Minnesota they have 12 months of snow, California we have beautiful sun. So we'd have more fans, more people coming out," Rodenhi said.

But fans say it's all hearsay, and rumors are simply rumors.

"Those rumors don't bother us," said fan Mark Rodrigues.

Republic FC owners are staying tight-lipped about the article.

Vice President of Marketing for Republic FC Erika Bjork says they are just anxious to hear what happens with the MLS expansion.

"We have been always committed to this market, in both creating the best soccer club in North America and elevating the talent and developing it in this region," Bjork said.

And even if one spot goes to Minneapolis, there could still be another left for Sacramento.

If Miami can't figure out a stadium plan, MLS may get tired of waiting – and that spot could potentially come to our backyard.

"The city's going to pull through," Rodrigues said.

Last week, MLS Commissioner Don Garber said they will have an announcement in about 45 to 60 days.

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