Right on the heels of the 2023 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Final (congrats to the Houston Dynamo), the largest qualifying round of the Modern Era (1995-present) of the tournament took place over the weekend (and one game rescheduled for Tuesday). In total, there were 43 games all across the country as amateur teams battled to take another step toward the 109th edition of the competition next spring.
The winners have advanced to the Third Round where they will square off the weekend of Oct. 21-22.
There was one forfeit as San Antonio’s Alamo City SC (UPSL) advanced when the Austin Longhorns dropped out. Below you will find a brief recap of all 43 games that were played.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
Villarreal CF Virginia (UPSL)
2:13
Steel Pulse FC (USASA/Maryland Super Soccer League)
Justice High School; Falls Church, VA
By Josh Hakala
The most lopsided game of the tournament took place in Falls Church, Va. on Saturday. Steel Pulse fell behind early to the UPSL’s Villarreal CF Virginia, but scored seven straight goals to break the game open. In the end, the Maryland Super Soccer League’s defending playoff champion would win the game 13-2. It is the second most lopsided game in the Open Division Qualifying tournament’s history (dating back to 2015).
Williams Yami Nono scored a first half brace and then added four more goals in the second half to lead the way. Jakob Asfaha had a hat trick, Emmanuel Oleubeusi scored a pair of goals and John Jlopleh and Youssef Naciri added a goal each.
MATCH BROADCAST
Houston FC (USSSA/USSL)
3:4
Athletic Katy FC (USSSA/USSL)
San Jacinto College South Campus Soccer Field; Houston, TX
By Josh Hakala
A pair of Houston-area United States Soccer League rivals squared off in one of the best back-and-forth battles of the competition so far. Houston FC hosted Athletic Katy FC in a rematch of the opening round of the 2020 qualifying tournament (the US Open Cup was ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic). That day, the game went to penalty kicks after a 3-3 draw with Athletic Katy FC advancing.
On Saturday afternoon, Athletic Katy prevailed again. This time, they fell behind three times and equalized three times before Victor Zavala scored an 86th minute game-winning goal. Nicolas Canizales, Erick Lazo and Ronaldo Garcia scored the Athletic Katy equalizers, all of them coming in the second half.
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Vereinigung Erzgebirge (USASA/USL of PA)
3:0
Philadelphia Heritage SC (USASA/EPSL)
Vereinigung Erzgebirge Clubhouse; Warminster, PA
By Greg Oldfield
Vereinigung Erzgebirge scored twice in the first 20 minutes and added a third goal in the second half to cruise to a 3-0 victory over Philadelphia Heritage SC Saturday afternoon at the VE club. The win was VE’s fourth-straight to open Lamar Hunt qualifying. Last season, VE (USLPA/USASA) lost to West Chester in the third round, missing a chance to return to the competition for the first time since 2002. Philadelphia Heritage (EPSL/USASA) made their qualifying debut last round, defeating Kensington SC on penalties after finishing 3-3.
Chris Baker opened the scoring three minutes into the game when he finished off a pass from Connor Fife. The visitors responded soon after with a chance of their own that forced a strong save by Steve Paul. Kevin Smolyn added a second for VE at the 17 minute mark. Smolyn started the play through midfield, finding striker Jalen Weatherspoon near the top of the box. Heritage keeper Carlos Meinhard Lopez got down to save Weatherspoon’s powerful shot, and Smolyn finished off the rebound from a tight angle. VE controlled much of the first half and managed a number of quality chances from free kicks. Baker had two great looks saved by Meinhard Lopez, and VE was unable to find the rebounds.
75’ @VEClub scores a third. Alex Hajj from Sean Peckham.#usopencup2024 pic.twitter.com/h187NTdtSi
— Philadelphia Soccer Now (@phlsoccernow) September 30, 2023
In the second half, Heritage came out firing and took control of the game. They had a few good chances off corners but couldn’t penetrate the VE back line, which was led by captain Chris Williams and Johnny Ciarlante. The VE pairing was busy containing Heritage’s Chad Catalana, who had a Man of the Match performance in the round 1 win. In the 7th minute, VE added a third from substitute Alex Hajj. Sean Peckham dribbled around the outside and slid the ball across to Hajj, who smashed it home from close range to put the game out of reach.
Chicago House AC (USASA/Midwest Premier League)
2:1
Wisloka Chicago (UPSL)
Langhorst Field (Elmhurst College); Elmhurst, IL
By Chuck Carlson
Wojik the bear, Wisokła Chicago’s mascot, did not make the trip to Elmhurst, Ill. to face Chicago House AC, but the team and its vocal group of supporters definitely showed up. Chicago House had not played a competitive match since July 22, 2023, while Wisokła is in the middle of their UPSL season, and this disparity in match fitness showed up in many ways. In the first few minutes of the game, the team from Chicago’s Polish community brought out a great save from House keeper Tony Halterman, and then put the ball off the crossbar with Halterman beaten. Those attacks were a wake up call for a team that upset a professional team and reached the Third Round proper last year. Alejandro Mentasti put House up 1-0 in the 18th minute, and 11 minutes later, AR Smith knocked the ball in from close range as Wisłoka keeper spilled a Kiki Avalos screamer from 18 yards out.
Another game-saving save at the death (99′) by Super Keeper Tony Halterman to preserve House 2-1 2nd Roynd @usopencup Qualifying victory! ????????????????⚽️????♂️#UptheHouse
Video: pic.twitter.com/fFalr9gp9B— Chicago House AC (@ChicagoHouse_AC) October 1, 2023
House looked very comfortable going into halftime with a 2-0 lead and actually was looking more likely to extend that lead, but all that changed in the 39th minute. House midfielder Aaron Nguyen was shown his second yellow for pulling a Wisokła jersey, and House were down to 10 for the remainder of the match. Wisokła got on the board early in that second half as Lukasz Sulka beat Halterman from a tight angle, leaving Wisokła down only a goal and a man up with 40 minutes to play. It was at this point that the lack of match fitness really showed up, as player after player succumbed to the heat and intensity of the game, and House trainer Luis Perez was called into action numerous times to treat players from both sides.
Despite all the injuries, substitutions and being down a man, the Open Cup experience of House came into play, as they managed the game well, and generally kept Wisokła from creating sustained pressure. All those stoppages though led to significant added time, and Wisokła should have had their leveling goal in the 8th minute of stoppage time, but it was again House keeper Halterman, the solid stopper for 2023 Open Cup, who pushed a point blank header wide. Shortly after that save, the referee blew the final whistle and House will move on to the 3rd round of Open Cup qualifying for the 2nd year in a row.
MATCH BROADCAST
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Azteca FC (USSSA/Colorado Premier League)
2:1
Harpos FC (USSSA/Colorado Premier League)
Victoria Sports Park; Golden, CO
By Andrew Mosier
Azteca FC topped bitter Colorado Premier League rivals Harpos FC 2-1 behind two goals from Oscar Montero.
Juan Pablo Caffe put Harpos on the board early with a blast from just inside his own half of midfield.
Montoya pulled things level in the 35th minute, finishing to the far post from inside 12 yards off a threaded pass from Freddy Fragozo. Montoya put Azteca in the lead in the 76th minute, connecting with Edgar Gonzalez in the middle of the field, finishing to the far post from 12 yards out.
This was the fourth time that Azteca has knocked Harpos out of Open Cup qualifying in the four meetings between the two clubs. All four Azteca victories have been by a single goal.
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Arlington SA (UPSL)
2:3
Yinz United (USASA/APL)
Long Bridge Park; Arlington, VA
By Sam Luebke
With the roar of planes from National Airport overhead, Yinz United (USASA/APL) knocked out Arlington SA (UPSL) on a stoppage time goal by Jose Noriega. Yinz United prevailed 3-2.
This match demonstrated why the US Open Cup is such an enchanting competition. Two relatively unknown clubs put on a fantastic show, attacking with creativity and verve and defending with good structure and bravery. Both sides were eager to show off their abilities on a larger stage but only one club could advance, and this was Jose Noriega’s, and Yinz United’s, moment.
Yinz United started strong, generating several early chances and eventually converting a neat exchange with Michael Zoellner providing a perfect cross for Christopher Fanet to head home in the 5th minute. Arlington SA struck back quickly. Maverick McGann, whose strength and speed caused problems for Yinz United all game, refused to give up on a long through ball and served a tap-in on a platter to Schimon Dieseler at the 11 minute mark. Both teams played openly and aggressively but Jose Noriega’s neatly taken free kick in the 38th minute gave Yinz United a 2-1 lead at halftime.
Arlington SA stepped up in the second half. Yinz United bent but didn’t break until the 72nd minute when Arlington substitute Cavan Fernandez grabbed a loose ball at the top of the box and leveled the score. The game continued at a high pace, the flood lights came on, the ref was checking his watch and it looked like extra time was in the cards. Jose Noriega had different plans. He pounced on a loose ball in the attacking third, beat one defender and slammed home the goal that carried “the pups” into the next round.
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Orlando FC Wolves (USSSA/USSL)
1:3
Harbor City FC (UPSL)
Sylvan Lake Park; Sanford, FL
By Jordan Beech
Harbor City FC is one step closer to reaching the 2024 tournament proper after beating Orlando FC Wolves, 3-1, on Saturday night. It was the first-ever meeting between the UPSL victors and their USSL counterparts.
Jordan Snell, Trey Collins, and Guillermo Segovia each found their way onto the scoresheet for the Melbourne, Fla., outfit. Robbie Madden was honored as Man of the Match with an assist on the match-winner while going the full 90 on the backline for HCFC. Harbor City would be victorious in their Open Cup qualifying debut while Orlando has now gone two straight tournaments where they’ve gone one-and-done after qualifying for the 2022 US Open Cup.
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Valley 559 FC (UPSL)
4:1
Bay Area United FC (USASA/NISA Nation)
Keith Tice Memorial Park; Fresno, CA
By Jordan Beech
A second-half hat trick by Juan Flores proved enough to power Valley 559 FC past Bay Area United FC and into the Third Qualifying Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. The UPSL side from Fresno is attempting to qualify for the Open Cup for the first time in club history since their founding in 2021.
The hosts got on the board in the first half through a 41st-minute strike from Jose Tovar off an assist by Joey Chica. Flores then stole the show in the second stanza, converting from the spot in the 51st minute and scoring on a solo effort in the 61st minute. He then put the finishing touches on his hat trick in the 81st minute after connecting with Milton Blanco’s pass. Blanco, one of the veteran leaders on the team, spent several years in the pros. Twenty years ago, Blanco was part of the 2003 Fresno Fuego (Premier Development League, now USL League Two) team that became the first amateur team since 1995 to reach the Fourth Round.
Florida Premier FC (UPSL)
4:0
Clearwater Chargers SC (UPSL)
GSports Clubhouse Field; Trinity, FL
By Jordan Beech
In a meeting of UPSL Florida-West division rivals, Florida Premier FC came out on top with a 4-0 drubbing of Clearwater Chargers SC. The contest was a rematch of a 2023 US Open Cup First Round qualifier which also saw FPFC dispatch the Clearwater outfit by the same 4-0 scoreline.
Stu Vigh assisted on three of the four goals for the hosts to lead the way. The opening goal came in the 40th minute when Daht Faal scored on a free kick from 25 yards out.
They would add a second just after halftime when Vigh delivered a cross from the left wing that found Melvin Boateng at the top of the 18 yard box. Boateng fired a shot into the bottom left corner to make it 2-0. Vigh would deliver another goal on a cross, this time from the right wing. His low cross would find Faal who would finish his second goal at the far post. Vigh’s third assist would come from the middle of the field as he served a through ball to Cristian Ortiz who beat the keeper and kissed the ball off the post and into the back of the net.
Former Notre Dame goalkeeper Will Dieterich collected the clean sheet for Premier.
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Hodler Miami FC (USSSA/USSL)
2:3 (AET)
City Soccer FC (USSSA/USSL)
UPSL Stadium (Broward College – South Campus); Pembroke Pines, FL
By Josh Hakala
City Soccer FC qualified for the 2022 US Open Cup in their first attempt at qualifying, and fell one game short of a “Win & You’re In” game last year. They got their third trip to the qualifying tournament off to a positive start with a 3-2 extra time win over first-time entry Hodler Miami FC on Saturday night.
City took an early 2-0 lead in the first half hour of the match. Ricky Tapia blasted a shot from just under 40 yards out to beat the keeper in spectacular fashion. The goal was assisted by former pro Jeff Michaud who holds a special piece of Open Cup history. He is the only player in the Modern Era (1995-present) to score a goal in four straight tournaments with four different clubs from four different levels.
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City would add another in the 29th minute with some impressive teamwork. Goalkeeper Edison Ostia punted the ball to Kevin Velasquez, who then lobbed a pass to Auner Cobon, who made a breakaway run and beat the keeper.
Hodler Miami pulled one back just after halftime (about the 48th min.), but the game would shift in the 73rd minute. Luis Zuluaga of City Soccer would receive a second yellow card for kicking the ball away during a stoppage. Hodler would take advantage of the man advantage and find an equalizer in the 80th minute.
The match went into extra time but City Soccer would regain the momentum. A long punt from goalkeeper Ostia found Michaud, who produced a through ball to substitute Jhanny Mena. Mena displayed his composure by sending a pinpoint cross to forward Amos Christiansen, who executed a diving header that eluded the keeper, restoring City Soccer’s lead.
City Soccer would hold on to secure a third straight (2022, 2023, 2024) opening round win in this competition.
Leg-AZ World FC (UPSL)
8:1
Royal Palms Soccer Club (UPSL)
The Villages SC Complex; Summerfield, FL
By Christian Gomez
As the 2023 edition of the tournament closed earlier in the week in South Florida, the 2024 edition has already begun and a second round match up in Summerfield, Fla. saw Leg-AZ World FC face off against Royal Palms Soccer Club. Leg-AZ are currently second in UPSL play while UPSL Spring 2023 State Champions Royal Palms Soccer Club went into the match hoping to build some momentum after a poor start to their Fall Season campaign.
Forty seconds. That’s how long it took Leg-AZ to get their first goal of the night. Martin Daniel kicked off an absolute siege that saw Leg-AZ take a three-goal lead within the first seven minutes. Royal Palms was absolutely shell shocked as the goals just kept going in for Leg-AZ. Joining Daniel in the onslaught was Malcom Denilson, Nazar Deputat, and Jeff Mesidor. Nicholas Butler took the opportunity to get an Open Cup hat trick with goals in the 19th, 29th & 41st minutes. By the time Royal Palms were able to reel a goal back with goalscorer Antione Ndiaye, the scoreline was 7-1. Right at the end of the first half, Jason Bernier would score what ultimately became the last goal of the night, making it 8-1 going into half time. The second half was a mere formality which ended with Leg-AZ moving to the next round of the tournament.
Leg-AZ head coach Darrell Bernier praised his team’s first half, but was left wanting the same level of performance in the second half.
“In the second half, there was a drop off in our play. So we just have to be consistent.”
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Mint Hill FC (UPSL)
1:6
South Carolina United Heat (UPSL)
Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park; Mint Hill, NC
By Forrest Wimberly
The visiting South Carolina United Heat used six unanswered goals to advance 6-1 past Mint Hill FC in their 2024 US Open Cup qualifier Saturday night in the Charlotte suburbs. The familiar UPSL Mid-Atlantic foes had that extra spring in their step for this USOC qualifier at the opening whistle.
Mint Hill FC had a dream start to the match as Ian Larson collected a ball just inside the Heat box and then curled the ball into the back post in the 6th minute for the early advantage.
The newly installed field turf had some uneven bounces early on but it was all SCU Heat to close the first half as the visitors from Columbia, SC just down I-77 found their footing and built a 4-1 advantage at the break.
@ScuHeat score a 5th here in Mint Hill. Kemp Wilson roofs the driven cross past the Mint Hill keeper. 5-1 Heat in the 52nd minute. @usopencup @opencup pic.twitter.com/Xxfe6M6KYM
— TheSoccerForrest (@soccer_forrest) October 1, 2023
The Heat opened their scoring in the 16th minute as Will Inalien scored on a long-range rocket from just inside the area. The Heat took the lead just nine minutes later as a low cross was whipped in from the left flank for the one-time finish by Ronaldo Fortune. A third goal by Kemp Wilson was from the right flank on a quick restart in the 30th minute and the fourth Heat goal of the half came in the 35th minute as Inalien scrambled home a loose ball for his brace just past the onrushing keeper in traffic.
The Heat added to their halftime advantage in the 52nd minute off another driven cross from the right that eluded the Mint Hill keeper only to be smashed into the roof of the net by Kemp Wilson for his brace. The final goal of the evening came in the 61st minute from outside the box as Adetayo Adefioye’s long-range effort found an opening in the crowded box and nestled in the bottom corner for the 6-1 final score.
This result marks the third consecutive year that the SCU Heat have advanced in USOC qualifying. In both 2021 and 2022 the Heat were left heartbroken after a COVID-19 outbreak forced them to forfeit a Win & You’re In match in 2021 and an extra-time loss in 2022.
MATCH BROADCAST
Austin Thunder (USASA/AMSA)
4:1
Daggers CTX (USASA/GCPL)
Round Rock Multipurpose Complex; Round Rock, TX
By Jim Coppock
In a matchup of Open Cup debutantes, Austin Thunder defeated Daggers CTX, 4-1.
Daggers, coming off a second place finish in the GCPL West conference (4-2-3, 14 pts), made the trip down I-35 to Austin. The home side, Austin Thunder of the Austin Men’s Soccer Association, are in perfect league form (3-0-0, 9 pts, +12 GD) and it showed on the field.
Austin would begin the scoring in the 25th minute. A six-pass sequence beginning in their own half, would end with Tommy Sanner crossing to the back post for Lukas Kisor to tap in for the 1-0 lead. The second half saw the bulk of the scoring in the contest as Gino Rossi and Patrick Baxter left their mark on the game.
Patrick Baxter increased the Austin lead on the hour mark. A good buildup through the middle of the field had Gino Rossi slide a perfect ball through to Baxter, just inside the Daggers penalty area, for the 2-0 lead after slotting the ball to the keeper’s left. In the 70th minute, a free kick would see the Austin lead increase once again. From a 35-yard central free kick, Cam Lennon setup Rossi for his 2nd assist of the game as Rossi sent a low cross to Baxter, for his 2nd tally, and the 3-goal lead. Another free kick chance sees Austin increase the lead further. From 30 yards out, Rossi again found Baxter, this time a lofted ball to the head of Baxter, who sent the ball over the keeper, to complete his natural hat-trick and Rossi’s 3rd assist to make it 4-0. Daggers would break the shutout in the 85th minute. A cleared ball was deemed to have struck a defender’s arm on the way out of danger resulting in a penalty kick decision. Jay Lee converted the kick, making it a 4-1 final score.
Santa Monica Surf (UPSL)
7:1
Trojans FC (UPSL)
Historic Belmar Park; Santa Monica, CA
By William Hodges
Santa Monica Surf advanced to the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Saturday night after a convincing 7-1 win over Trojans FC. The Surf were led by forward Ari Taublieb who notched a hat trick and two assists. The Surf also received goals from Markus Raad, Emmanuel Serrano, Marcello Jones and Pedro.
Raad opened the scoring after receiving a through ball from Ari Taublieb. Then, right before halftime, Taublieb dribbled through some defenders (nutmegging one of them) and beating the keeper to make it 2-0 in the 44th minute.
Jones would begin the second half scoring barrage by chipping the goalkeeper followed by Serrano faking a cross, eluding a defender and scoring to the far post. Zev Taublieb, a former Sacramento Republic player, found his brother Ari on a through ball and he beat the keeper to make it 5-0. Then, Ari completed his hat trick after dribbling past two players to score to the far post. Ari would add another assist on a through ball to Pedro who finished off the scoring.
Edgewater Castle Football Club (USASA/Midwest PL)
2:1
Berber City FC (USASA/Midwest PL)
Fire Pitch; Chicago, IL
By Adnan Bašić
It was a Chicago classic on Saturday night as Edgewater Castle defeated Berber City 2-1 at the CIBC Fire Pitch.
A close affair throughout, Berber City took the lead after Rafael Santos drilled home a shot from the edge of the area. Edgewater started mounting a comeback in the second half, which was kickstarted when Berber had their captain sent off.
Andrew Ribeiro equalized midway through the half when his deflected strike found the back of the net, and then high school senior Andres Rocha slotted home in stoppage time to win the game in dramatic fashion.
It was a fair result at the end of the night, as Edgewater controlled the second half, making the most of their man advantage and excited home crowd. They secured their first Open Cup qualifying win in the process, booking their spot in the 3rd round where they might face off against fellow Chicago side Chicago House Athletic Club.
FULL MATCH REPORT BY MEN IN RED
MATCH BROADCAST
International San Francisco (USASA/SFSFL)
4:1
The Olympic Club (USASA/SFSFL)
James P. Lang Athletics Fields; San Francisco, CA
By Rich Flemings
The “soccer startup” that turned heads in the early rounds of the 2023 US Open Cup proved that last year’s run was no fluke, as International San Francisco defeated The Olympic Club 4-1.
With a starting lineup filled with returners from last season, including former pro Matt Fondy and goalkeeper Mason Kealy, the visitors used their experience and veteran leadership to earn the victory. Julio Carvantes opened the scoring in the 17th minute off an assist by Fondy. Adrian Argast doubled the lead 17 minutes later on a goal assisted by Dylan Autran. But then Autran would score one of his own in first half stoppage time as Fondy picked up another assist. Fondy would pick up his third assist on the team’s fourth goal by Autran in the 48th minute. Olympic Club, an organization that dates back more than a century, ruined the clean sheet with a goal in the 65th minute, but 4-1 is how the game would end.
Manager Amari Darabi made several substitutions throughout the match, keeping the pressure on the opposition while utilizing a deep bench featuring several veterans from last season.
Inter San Francisco will carry the momentum into the next round as they look to surpass last season’s success while continuing to carry the label as the “fastest growing club in California.”
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Temecula Football Club (USASA/NISA Nation)
4:0
Murrieta Soccer Academy (UPSL)
Chaparral High School; Temecula, CA
By William Hodges
Temecula Football Club advanced to the third qualifying round Saturday night after a dominant 4-0 win over Murrieta Soccer Academy at Chaparral High School. Saturday’s match was the first time the two sides had faced each other.
DJ Wilson scored the first of his two goals in the 19th minute when he scored off a rebound from about 20 yards out. Amfed Luquez would tap one in off a cross just two minutes later. Pablo would add a third in the 30th minute off a free kick. It would take DJ Wilson until the 85th minute to earn his brace as he put the game away with a goal from the left side of the box to the far post.
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1
Terminus FC (USASA/ADASL)
0:4
Kalonji Pro-Profile (UPSL)
Brook Run Park Soccer Fields; Dunwoody, GA
By Josh Hakala
For the second qualifying tournament in a row, Kalonji Pro-Profile went on the road and picked up a one-sided victory in their opening round game. On Sunday, the UPSL side traveled to Dunwoody, Ga. and picked up a 4-0 win over Terminus FC. Kalonji finished one point shy of winning the Georgia Division title in the spring season and are currently tied for third place in the division with a 3-1-1 record. They are seeking their first US Open Cup berth in team history.
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Majestic SC (USASA/ADASL)
6:1
North Georgia United (UPSL)
Booker T. Washington High School; Atlanta, GA
By Henry Higuita
Majestic SC dished out a harsh 6-1 lesson to North Georgia United early Sunday morning to advance to the third round of 2024 US Open Cup qualifying. Two goals in the first 15 minutes from Max Poore and Jackson Eskay plus a thundering strike from Adam Abdellaoui gave the hosts a comfortable lead before Victor Valencia pulled one back for United to end the half 3-1.
Just when it seemed that the visitors might be settling into the game, Majestic mercilessly showed it had other ideas. Adrian Lollar added a fourth in the 70th minute and Abdellaoui completed his brace three minutes later. Things would only get worse for North Georgia as its goalscorer, Valencia, was sent off in the 78th minute after receiving his second yellow card of the match. Will Bagrou put a bow on the game with his 83rd-minute goal to make it 6-1 for Majestic.
For Majestic, the match marks a return to the qualifying tournament. It was just the second time entering the competition after trying to qualifying for the 2018 US Open Cup. That year, they defeated Lowcountry United in the opening round before falling to Nashville United.
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Colonial SC (USASA/USL of PA)
1:3 (AET)
Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals (USASA/USL of PA)
Plymouth Whitemarsh High School; Plymouth Meeting, PA
By Josh Hakala
Vasyl Khomenko carried the Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals to a 3-1 extra time win over league rival Colonial SC in the opening round of the 2024 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Colonial SC held a 1-0 lead until the 75th minute when Khomenko used his left foot to beat the keeper after a scramble inside the box. The match would end up in extra time and Khomenko would break the deadlock in the 95th minute. He took a corner kick and a Colonial defender headed the ball into his own net. In the 118th minute, fatigue was starting to set in, and Khomenko took advantage. He would complete his hat trick and put the game away by dribbling from midfield, beating two defenders, reaching the penalty area and beating the keeper.
The win snapped a four-game tournament losing streak for the four-time US Open Cup champions (1960-61, 1963, 1966). Their last win in the competition came in the opening round of the 2019 qualifying tournament, a 2-0 home win over the United German Hungarians.
FC Omens (USASA/BSSL)
0:3
Brockton FC United (UPSL)
Madison Park High School; Boston, MA
By Eric Casey
A team that’s no stranger to U.S Open Cup competition proved that they’re planning on making another run in 2023, as Brockton FC United defeated FC Omens 3-0 at Madison Tech High Park in Roxbury, Mass. in the Second Round of the 2024 US Open Cup qualifying tournament.
Brockton found the scoresheet for the first time in the 37th minute, when Nilton Teixeira De Andrade carved his way into the box from the near touchline, breezing by his defender and cooly curved the ball past the keeper to give his team the lead.
In the 65th minute, a goal kick from keeper Christopher Moura took a high bounce off the artificial turf near the halfway line before heading directly to Brockton’s Erickson Alves, who quickly passed it forward to a streaking Meny Antonio Tavares Silva. The Brockton forward was challenged by Omens keeper Zachary Abdu-Glass, but Tavares Silva was able to slide the ball past the keeper before the two collided near the top of the box. Tavares Silva was awarded the goal, and Abdu-Glass was awarded a yellow card for his efforts. Tavares Silva would find the net again in the 77th minute to make the score 3-0, with Elizandro Cardoso picking up the assist.
Brockton, who qualified for the 2022 US Open Cup, has reached the final round of qualifying in all three of their tournament entries (2020-22). Last year, they lost to Chicago House AC in penalty kicks after a 1-1 draw.
United German Hungarians (USASA/USL of PA)
6:0
Real Central NJ Soccer (USASA/EPSL)
Temple University Ambler Campus; Ambler, PA
By Jordan Beech
United German Hungarians enjoyed a 6-0 romp over Real Central New Jersey Soccer to advance in the 2024 US Open Cup Qualifiers. The Pennsylvania side improved on their progress from last year, reaching the third round of qualifiers after falling in the second qualifying round last year.
The German Hungarians secured a 4-0 lead in the first half and never looked back. Koty Taylor struck first in the 28th minute off an assist by Ryan Tadley. A minute later, Kenny Lassiter cleaned up a rebound from a Taylor shot to double the advantage.
Nick Jachwak curled one in from Taylor’s assist in the 37th minute, before John Gravelle latched on to Tadley’s service from a free kick in the 43rd. Two more goals were scored by the hosts in the second half to put the finishing touches on the final scoreline.
UGH, a two-time US Open Cup finalist (1977, 1994), have been a regular in US Open Cup qualifying for several years, but have not punched their ticket to the tournament since 1999. Since the current qualifying format began in 2015, they had won just two of the seven games they played in entering Sunday’s match.
Sahara Gunners FC (UPSL)
2:1
IASC Boom (USASA/Rochester District SL)
Crosby Soccer Field; Buffalo, NY
By Josh Hakala
While the Sahara Gunners FC were playing in their home town of Buffalo, that was one of the only advantages they had entering Sunday’s match against Rochester’s IASC Boom. The Gunners arrived at Crosby Soccer Field and learned that out of their 18-man roster, only 11 of them were eligible. And there was not a single goalkeeper among them. Kibrom Gebrekidan, an athletic midfielder, who also plays outside back put on the goalkeeper gloves and the Gunners suited up with just 11 players against one of the best teams in the region. A team that had beaten them in the opening round of last year’s qualifying tournament, 3-1.
Despite the odds, it was the Gunners who struck first in the 58th minute. A free kick near midfield was played short and crossed into the penalty area where the IASC goalkeeper came off his line and tried to punch the ball out. The ball popped up in the air and fell to Hsa Soe right in front of goal who put the ball into the empty net.
In the 71st minute, the Boom found the equalizer. A cross from the right wing by Hernandez found Armada right in front of goal and he volleyed it from close range, giving Gebrekidan no chance.
The game appeared to be headed to extra time, but Kovan Dalil received the ball near midfield and launched a long ball toward the top of the penalty area. With seconds left in the match, two Gunners players ran toward it. Soe, with a defender tightly marking him, tried to get a head to it but it was just out of reach and he overran it. But with the defender following Soe away from the play, Melvin Blair cut inside, lost his defender and beat the onrushing goalkeeper to the ball and tapped it with just enough power to reach the back of the net before a retreating defender could save it.
The Gunners held on in the final seconds to earn the club’s first-ever qualifying win and advance to Round 3.
MORE: Sahara Gunners FC getting assist from Buffalo Bills in goal of bringing pro soccer to Queen City
UDA Soccer (UPSL)
2:1
Coronado Athletic Club (UPSL)
Field of Dreams Soccer Complex; Las Cruces, NM
By Jordan Beech
In a meeting of UPSL sides, UDA Soccer claimed a 2-1 triumph over Coronado Athletic Club in Las Cruces, N.M. UDA Soccer, a unique team that serves as both a soccer academy and New Mexico State University’s men’s team, is now two wins away from qualifying for the Open Cup for a second straight year.
Alan Gudiño got UDA on the board in just the 19th minute of action, converting from the spot after a foul in the box. Jared Nunes of Coronado ensured parity was restored just before the interval, converting a shot in the 44th minute.
Shortly after the restart, Saleh Alyones scored what would prove to be the match-winner by taking advantage of a goalkeeper error. Seeing out the win, tempers flared near the end with Joaquin Escalante receiving a red card in the 89th minute for Coronado.
Valhalla FC (USCS/Ohio Valley PL)
2:0
Chicago Strikers (UPSL)
Grand Park; Westfield, IN
By Jordan Beech
The Ohio Valley Premier League’s Valhalla FC punched their ticket to the Third Qualifying Round with a 2-0 victory over the UPSL’s Chicago Strikers. This marks the best-ever performance for the OVPL’s lone entrant in the 2024 qualifying tournament.
Fin Sallows and Jacob Pokorski were the goalscorers for Valhalla FC. The victors took advantage of a struggling Chicago Strikers squad that is riding a four-match losing streak in their fall UPSL league. In the 30th minute, Sallows received the ball at the top of the box and suffered a bad tackle and the referee pointed to the spot. Sallows took the penalty and put his team up 1-0. Pokorski’s goal came in the 68th minute when left back Jay Klein sent him down the left wing and he dribbled through multiple defenders and beat the keeper to the near post.
Soccer Paradise FC (USSSA/USSL)
0:9
Miami United FC (USSSA/USSL)
Lester B. Brown Park; Miami Gardens, FL
By Tyler Pilgrim
The two Miami-based teams got off to an exceptionally slow start Sunday afternoon thanks to a massive storm that set off the area’s weather sirens three minutes after the opening whistle. After an almost two-hour delay, the game started again at approximately 6 p.m. It would only take until the 18th minute, however, for Miami United to go ahead thanks to a Robertino Insua goal.
Miami would double its lead shortly after in the 23rd minute courtesy of Jose Aguinaga before taking complete control in the 32nd as Insua bagged his brace. A penalty in favor of Miami in the 38th minute would make it 4-0 into the half.
Soccer Paradise had a handful of half chances, but it didn’t take long for Miami to continue running riot as Aguinaga netted his own brace in the 57th, and Miami quickly made it six in the 65th. Matias Solari completed the touchdown in the 67th as Soccer Paradise’s defense crumbled, and their keeper unfortunately went down with a rough leg injury.
It would be Robertino Insua who ultimately made it 8-0 in the 80th minute and 9-0 in the 87th minute to finish the route.
MATCH BROADCAST
DCFC (USASA/DC PL)
1:4
Northern Virginia FC (USASA/EPSL)
The Fields at RFK; Washington, D.C.
By Sam Luebke
For almost the entire first half, DCFC withstood the onslaught of Northern Virginia FC. From the first minute of the game NOVA FC attacked in waves. Eric Calvillo provided smart runs and good service. Johnny Desouza was confident on the ball and his quick movements caused problems for DCFC. Jean Ayolmbong was relentless in attack.
Perhaps the outcome would have been different if DCFC had made it to the half scoreless, but an outstanding individual effort by Eric Calvillo gave NOVA a 1-0 advantage in the 38th minute. NOVA’s Jean Ayolmbong doubled the lead in the 40th minute. It was a tough end of the half for DCFC.
The one-way traffic continued in the second half. Ayolmbong got his second goal in the 55th minute through an eye-pleasing individual run. With the score at 3-0 it looked like the game was over. However, DCFC sub Taka Lendon pulled one back in the 72nd minute. DCFC pushed hard to make a game of it. DCFC’s Jonathan Boyd, their most effective offensive player on the night, had a couple chances but DCFC couldn’t pull closer. Marquez Vagner scored right before the final whistle blew, to make the score 4-1 and send NOVA FC on to the next round.
FC Birmingham (UPSL)
1:4
Tennessee Tempo FC (UPSL)
Birmingham-Southern College; Birmingham, AL
Beaman United entered the US Open Cup qualifying tournament for the first time last year and after three wins, they punched their ticket. They would lose their opening round game to USL League Two powerhouse Des Moines Menace. They are back, trying to qualify for a second year in a row, but with a new name. This past offseason they rebranded as Tennessee Tempo FC and won their opening round game on Sunday 4-1 over fellow UPSL side FC Birmingham.
MATCH BROADCAST
Florida Brothers (USSSA/USSL)
1:2
Miami Soccer Academy (USASA/United States SL)
Mills Pond Park; Fort Lauderdale, FL
By Josh Hakala
The Miami Soccer Academy began their third straight US Open Cup qualifying tournament with a 2-1 win for the third year in a row. Sunday’s win was a road game against Florida Brothers. Miami was delivered a blow in the opening 15 minutes when they received a red card. Then, in the 50th minute, they received a second red card. Despite being down to nine men, they scored the first goal with about 35 minutes remaining. A goal kick from the keeper led to a breakaway and a goal on the other end by Jhojan Leyton. Then, with about 25 minutes left, Miami scored directly from a free kick. Florida Brothers would score a goal late to ruin the shutout, but MSA would hold on for the 2-1 win.
MATCH BROADCAST
SC Union Maricopa (UPSL)
1:2
Sporting Arizona FC (USASA/SWPL)
Matt O. Hanhila Field; Glendale, AZ
By Jim Coppock
A beautiful, sunny afternoon in Glendale, Arizona, saw two bitter foes meet in the US Open Cup 2nd qualifying round. SC Union Maricopa hosted Sporting Arizona at Glendale Community College’s Matt O. Hanhila Field. Sporting Arizona would score three times, but only win 2-1. The game would kick off a little more than a half hour late due to an issue validating player IDs for the home side. This did motivate the visitors a bit as they were ready to go at the scheduled kick-off time.
Sporting would dominate large periods of the contest but could not put themselves on the board until the second half. It took just 2 minutes for the first save to be recorded by Union. Sporting’s Izaac Juarez headed a ball toward the base of the far post, but Roberto Ochoa Lugo was equal to the task. A good spell of end-to-end play after that would end in the 10th minute when Sporting’s defender, Christian Moran played a ball backward; both he and goalkeeper Daniel Magana watched it bounce into their own goal. 1-nil to Union. Except for this moment, Moran had a great game, in front of both goals. Including a great opportunity from a free kick. His laser beam header was tipped over the bar by Lugo to maintain the Union lead in the 32nd minute. Sporting dominated the play the remainder of the half but would going into halftime trailing. Union’s Mario Montoya was a workhorse in the midfield all afternoon but was unable to score or assist.
The full-blooded challenges that started almost immediately in the first half increased in frequency and impact as the game continued. ‘Chippy’ would have been more mellow. Six yellow cards were shown, but there were no sendings off or serious injuries.
The second half saw more of the same-Sporting on the front foot. They high-pressured Union to every ball and won most of them. After sustained possession in the first few minutes of the second half, Sporting would find their first goal. In the 55th minute, a headed goal from Arturo Eber Torres Alberran after a 60-yard attack leveled the game at 1-1. Shortly after that, a free kick in the 63rd minute saw Edgar Eduardo Hermosillo Gonzalez get Sporting’s nose in front, 2-1. The last 15 minutes, the game found another gear and the challenges got a little fiercer. After multiple shots by both sides, the final whistle sounded and Sporting Arizona find themselves in the 3rd qualifying round, against an opponent to be determined.
Boston Street FC (UPSL)
2:2
CD Faialense (USASA/BSSL)
Harry Della Russo Memorial Stadium; Revere, MA
CD Faialense advances 4-2 on penalty kicks
By Tyler Pilgrim
This wild New England clash embodied everything about the spirit of the US Open Cup. Boston Street FC, the 2023 UPSL New England Champions, and CD Faialense met in a tense, back and forth battle near the end of the second round.
Boston Street would strike first, netting the game’s first goal in the 7th minute thanks to Sebastian Toro, and the young club looked primed to move on to the third round in regulation time. However, CD Faialense snuck a goal home in the 90th minute to send the match into extra time. Francis Mulkern delivered a beautiful pass to Paul Mayer who took the ball down then slotted the ball in the bottom right hand corner. CD Faialense would then go up 2-1 about halfway through extra time thanks to a Paul Maguzzo rebound before conceding on a mad scramble in the 119th minute, courtesy of Boston’s Junior Pereira.
In the penalty kick shootout, Mirko Nufi, Paul Mayer, Alessandro Negri, and Francis Mulkern scored on their attempts. Boston Street missed their first attempt and CD Faialense goalkeeper Lucas Rezende saved Boston’s third attempt as the visitors would prevail, 4-2 to advance to Round 3.
Deportivo Lake Mary (UPSL)
0:8
FC America CFL Spurs (UPSL)
Lake Mary High School; Lake Mary, FL
NOTE: CFL GOSA Spurs registered with that name but changed their team name to “FC America CFL Spurs” prior to their opening game
By Josh Hakala
It was a one-sided affair between two Florida-based UPSL rivals. FC America CFL Spurs defeated Deportivo Lake Mary 8-0. Jason Udom opened the scoring in the 20th minute and then former pro William Enyang added two more in the 27th and 30th minutes. FC America led 3-0 at the halftime break and then broke it open in the second half. Nickell Alexander would add a hat trick and Angel Moulton and Rodolfo Alvarez would also score in the second half.
MATCH BROADCAST
FORO SC (UPSL)
2:0
Tenfifteen FC (UPSL)
Prince of Peace; Carrollton, TX
By Daniel Crooke
Zach Loyd and Michel played on opposite ends of FC Dallas’ back line in a run to the 2014 US Open Cup semi-final. Tonight they took up their spots on opposite benches with Loyd serving as assistant coach to wife and former USWNT midfielder Casey. It would be Michel’s FORO SC advancing in the second qualifying round with a 2-0 result over Tenfifteen SC.
A tense affair between two divisional rivals in the UPSL Texas North saw FORO SC control the midfield but struggle to get past a well organized Tenfifteen defense highlighted by captain, Tyler Lee. An unfortunate own goal by Lee in the 58th minute gave FORO SC the lead. The center back misread a cross by Juan Ramirez, diverting the ball past his own keeper. Hector Romero doubled the lead in the third minute of stoppage time with a sublime curling effort 20 yards out close to the left touchline.
Tenfiifteen FC’s best opportunity to level came from the feet of Thierry Asamoi, turning a defender in the box before attempting to play a ball low across the goal mouth in the 69th minute. Perhaps his mindset should have been to shoot rather than supply as Tendai Jirira squeezed a clearance away to help preserve the clean sheet.
MATCH BROADCAST
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New Jersey Alliance FC (UPSL)
2:0
SC Vistula Garfield (USASA/Garden State SL)
Anzaldi Park; Clifton, NJ
By Michael Battista
New Jersey Alliance FC’s Ali Lakhrif scored both his team’s goals as the UPSL side advanced, 2-0, past SC Vistula Garfield. The result marks Alliance’s first win ever in Open Cup Qualifying after opening match losses the last two years.
Out of the gate, Alliance controlled the match. Dominating possession, Vistula had little chance to organize let alone attack. The first and eventual game winning goal broke through in the 28th minute. Isimohi Bello, whose resume includes time in the National Independent Soccer Association, sent a pass from the right side to Lakhrif. The forward cut across the box to the left side and shot low into the opposite post. Ten minutes later he doubled NJA’s lead. A cross by Adam Garner found Lakhrif on the left side again. He chipped a shot over the keeper.
With the NJ Transit Main Line trains thundering nearby, the 40 fans watching at Anzaldi Park (formerly known in previous years as Athenia Steel Soccer Complex) saw the game get more aggressive. Alliance was forced to use a sub in the 33rd minute as Stefan Koroman limped off after a hard challenge. Vistula started to gain more possession, especially in the second half, and both teams looked poised to score, Garfield’s striker Hubert Dul excelled at breakaways the whole night. One of his best chances came in the 87th minute, barring down on net on a break before shooting wide right. He never cut into his team’s deficit.
In total, the game saw six yellow cards. Alliance entered the second half with two but Vistula finished the game earning four unanswered. Garfield player-coach Chris Karz was unable to compete as a player due to yellow card accumulation last year. The former New York Red Bulls’ signing still guided his team from the sideline as a gaffer. Though his side was missing starters due to injury.
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NY Renegades FC (UPSL)
3:1
Zum Schneider FC 03 (USASA/EPSL)
Cantiague Park; Hicksville, NY
By Josh Hakala
The UPSL’s New York Renegades scored a pair of first half goals and held off the EPSL’s Zum Schneider FC 03 to advance in their US Open Cup qualifying debut in Hicksville, NY. Rodrigo Descalzo received a through pass into the box and beat the keeper in the 29th minute. Seven minutes later, Alexis Santa received a cross from Descalzo and he tapped it in to give New York a 2-0 lead. Zum Schneider pulled one back just before halftime thanks to Tomas De Andrade Gomez.
Jonathan Silviera would give the Renegades the two-goal lead they would end the game with when Descalzo penetrated the penalty box. He lost possession but Silviera was there to pounce on the loose ball and give New York a 3-1 lead.
MATCH BROADCAST
Aegean Hawks FC (USASA/American PL)
0:5
Christos FC (USASA/MSSL)
Langley High School; McLean, VA
By Josh Hakala
Two East Coast powers faced off as Christos FC blanked the Aegean Hawks FC 5-0 at Langley High School in McLean, Va. Both teams are regulars in US Open Cup qualifying. Christos has qualified for the US Open Cup three times (2017, 2018, 2020) in the last seven tournaments (2020 tournament was ultimately canceled). The Hawks have also qualified three times (2007, 2009, 2012), but not since US Soccer launched the Open Division qualifying tournament in 2015.
Christos jumped out to an early lead. A pass from the left wing found Morgan Lussi who made a quick pass to Alexander Lee who roofed the shot to open the scoring in the 14th minute.
A Christos free kick was driven into the box and the Hawks’ goalkeeper attempted to clear the ball to safety but the ball fell to Kyle Saunderson to make it 2-0 in the 32nd minute.
Just before halftime, Clement Blamo took advantage of a poor clearance by the Hawks’ defense and finished to make it a three-goal lead heading into the break.
In the 76th minute, Lussi was sprung free on a counter attack. He found himself one-on-one with a defender and waited the fresh legs of Alejandro Arbelaez, who had just entered the game. Arbelaez took his first touch of the game and beat the keeper to make it 4-0. Blamo scored a 90th minute goal to put the game away. Dan McLeary earned the clean sheet for Christos FC as they advance in the opening round game for the first time since 2020.
FC Folsom (UPSL)
2:1
UC Davis Club Soccer (USASA/West Coast SA)
Livermore Community Park; Folsom, CA
By William Hodges
FC Folsom advanced to the third qualifying round Sunday afternoon after outlasting UC Davis Soccer Club 2-1 at Livermore Community Park. Forward Joe Restani opened the scoring for FC Folsom in the 20th minute giving the home team a 1-0 advantage. UC Davis would level the match in the 32nd minute on an Oscar Ortiz goal (assisted by Wumi Aladetimi).
Midfielder Bryce Pando gave FC Folsom the lead for good 10 minutes into the second half with a left-footed volley at the top of the box. FC Folsom would hold on for the 2-1 win. Goalkeeper Hector Grajeda stood on his head, tallying double-digit saves as FC Folsom wins in the club’s qualifying debut.
Irvine Zeta FC (UPSL)
6:0
Capo FC (USASA/NISA Nation)
Orange County Great Park; Irvine, CA
By Josh Hakala
Irvine Zeta FC of the UPSL earned the club’s first-ever qualifying win, 6-0 over Capistrano FC at Orange County Great Park in Irvine, Calif. on Sunday.
Zeta had six different goalscorers in the match to advance to Round 3. Israel Espinoza opened the scoring in the 10th minute and Miguel Pena doubled the lead in the 28th minute. After going into the halftime break up 2-0, Former Orange County SC player Edson Alvarado scored in the 55th minute. Ten minutes later, Christian Fernandez, who spent time with Real Sociedad (Spain), made it 4-0. Luan Barbosa and Tien Cao put the game away with goals in the 80th and 86th minutes.
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New York Pancyprian Freedoms (USASA/EPSL)
2:1 (AET)
Lansdowne Yonkers FC (USASA/EPSL)
Belson Stadium (St. John’s Univ.); Jamaica, NY
By Josh Taylor
New York Pancyprian Freedoms edged out Lansdowne Yonkers FC 2-1 after extra time to move on to the third round of qualifying for the 2024 US Open Cup.
We had two Eastern Premier Soccer League sides battling it out at Belson Stadium. In the first half, both sides had a chance to take the lead but hit the post on each end as we remained scoreless throughout the first half.
The goals finally came in the second half. Luis Argudo put the Freedoms in front in the 49th minute. Three minutes later, Joseph Devivo scored the equalizer for Lansdowne Yonkers FC to tie the match 1-1. Later in the second half New York had Sameer Fathazad sent off for another foul and getting a second yellow card. The Freedoms had to play the rest of the match down to 10 men. After 90 minutes the game remained tied at one and needed extra time.
In the 108th minute, Jordan Bailon found the back of the net from a tight angle to put Pancyprian Freedoms back in front 2-1. Lansdowne Yonkers were pushing to get another goal but came up short and despite being down to 10 men for 60 minutes, the three-time US Open Cup champions (1980, 1982, 1983) hung on for the win and will move on to the next round of qualifying.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
FC Denver (USSSA/Colorado Premier Lg)
3:2
Provo Athletic Club (UPSL)
Northfield High School; Denver, CO
By Jordan Beech
FC Denver survived a scare from an undermanned Provo Athletic Club, claiming a 3-2 victory. The visiting side traveled with just 12 players, but clawed their way back from a 3-0 hole.
The hosts looked to have an easy go of it, quickly gaining the lead through a 16th minute strike by Roberto Diaz Delgado. Juan Torres and Jamie Collins tallied in the 50th and 60th minute respectively, which seemed to ice the match. But Provo had other plans.
A penalty kick by James Pena in the 70th minute still allowed FC Denver some breathing room with a 3-1 advantage. However, Israel Baizabal scored in the 82nd minute to officially make the ending uncomfortable for FCD.
Provo thought they had clawed all the way back just minutes later, but unfortunately the equalizer was judged to be offside. FC Denver went on to see out the remaining time with their one-goal advantage, advancing to the third round of qualifying. FC Denver is two wins away from returning to the US Open Cup. They are seeking their third entry into the competition (2018, 2019).
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Escondido FC (UPSL)
2:0
Rebels Soccer Club (UPSL)
Mount Miguel High School; Spring Valley, CA
By William Hodges
Behind goals from forwards Robert Guerrero and Angel De Leon, Escondido FC beat Rebels SC to punch their ticket to the third qualifying round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Sunday was the latest clash between two rival UPSL clubs who have a history of playing tightly contested matches.
Guerrero’s header came on a cross and De Leon chipped the keeper from about 18 yards out on the second goal. Escondido FC goalkeeper Dany Barragan earned the clean sheet.
Escondido FC will look to keep their good fortune going in Round 3 the weekend of Oct. 21-22. They are looking to qualify for the tournament for the first time since making their debut in 2022.
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MATCH BROADCAST
Sharktopus FC (USSSA/RATS)
2:1
Holac FC (UPSL)
Interbay Stadium; Seattle, WA
By Jordan Beech
Love is blind, but Jimmy Forde was not, as the former “Love is Blind” reality TV contestant posted several saves to help Skarktopus Football Club get past Holac FC, 2-1.
Sharktopus took the lead in just the 6th minute of action before the UPSL’s Holac snuck one past Forde in the 22nd minute thanks to Mo Jama. The teams would head into halftime knotted up at 1-1.
With time ticking down and locked in a stalemate, it was Sharktopus’ Peder Bakken who found the key. His 73rd minute strike proved the difference as the Seattle-based club saw out a 2-1 victory and claimed passage to the next round of qualifying.
Sharktopus drew first blood early on as Cutler scored in the 6th minute to put his team ahead. Refusing to be intimidated, Holac pulled one back via a goal by Mo Jama scored in the 22nd minute. The score was tied 1-1 at halftime.
The second half was a lively affair as three players received yellow cards. Holac player, Khalid, received a yellow card in the 54th minute and in the 58th minute. Holac would receive another yellow, this time going to Yoel. After a grinding 51 minutes without a goal, Skarktopus managed to find their second through Peder Bakken in the 73rd minute and drew ahead once again. Before the final whistle Sharktopus player, Kante, received the fourth yellow card of the match in the 74th minute. Sharktopus won their Open Cup qualifying debut 2-1 and earn their ticket to face International San Francisco in the next round of the competition.
Are you ready for Sharktopus FC?? ????????
This amateur club from the Puget Sound are 2 wins away from competing in the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
Follow @SharktopusFC and pre-order a kit from your new favorite club ????https://t.co/VwQou8XX2T pic.twitter.com/ZrRk9VRefS
— Olive & York (@olive_york) October 4, 2023
MATCH BROADCAST
O’Shea’s FC (USSSA/United States SL)
0:2 (AET)
Parkland Soccer Club (UPSL)
Gaines Park; West Palm Beach, FL
By Josh Hakala
The lone game of the round that did not take place over the weekend was rescheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 3. O’Shea’s FC hosted Parkland Soccer Club in a battle of Florida clubs seeking their first-ever qualifying win. In the end, it was Parkland that earned a 2-0 win after extra time to advance to Round 3.
A pre-game fight involving some Parkland players and some bystanders who were at Gaines Park delayed the start of the match. Once the match kicked off the two teams battled for 90 minutes of scoreless soccer. The game would be decided in extra time when Parkland’s Steve Moodie scored both goals to earn the win.
In the 104th minute, the O’Shea’s FC goalkeeper has the ball stolen from him and Moodie opened the scoring.
The second goal came from Moodie, this time at the penalty spot. One of the Parkland players made a run down the left wing with O’Shea’s defender Daniel Blanc, Blanc took him down and a PK was awarded in the 115th minute.
MATCH BROADCAST