CF Montreal Defender Joel Waterman Encourages Team to Maintain Mental Strength Amidst Tough Start

Despite a rough beginning to the season, Joel Waterman, a defender for CF Montreal, insists that the team must focus on keeping a positive mindset as they approach their upcoming home game against Orlando City SC. With eight matches completed, CF Montreal is experiencing their worst start in Major League Soccer, having secured only two points and no victories, leaving them at the bottom of the league.

In an interview, Waterman acknowledged the frustration that can come with such challenges but emphasized the need for the team to remain optimistic and unified. He noted that, despite struggles in their recent match against Charlotte, there were several positive aspects to their performance.

Montreal, with a record of 0-6-2, is undergoing significant changes under interim coach Marco Donadel, who has reverted the team to a four-man defense for the first time since 2019. Donadel is also encouraging a more aggressive and open style of play. However, the team has faced difficulties in converting opportunities into goals, currently holding the league’s lowest conversion rate, having scored only four times from an expected 12.43.

Price Owusu, who plays a key role as the central striker, has had an impactful presence in other aspects of the game but has struggled with goal-scoring. Despite being the team's leading scorer with two goals, his tendency to miss opportunities has drawn attention. Coach Donadel expressed confidence in Owusu, stating that confidence in front of the goal often comes with momentum, and he believes in Owusu’s abilities.

The rivalry between Montreal and Orlando has grown in recent years, leading to several memorable encounters, including a contentious pre-season friendly this year. In past seasons, their matches have had significant playoff implications, with each team experiencing highs and lows against the other. Waterman remarked on the dynamic between the teams, acknowledging a lack of outright animosity but recognizing the energy that comes from their competitive matchups.

However, as Montreal prepares for their latest clash with Orlando, they will need to do so without two recent signings, Giacomo Vrioni and Jalen Neal, who are both sidelined due to injuries.