The magic of the US Open Cup thrives on the unpredictable, where lower-division teams seize the opportunity to challenge established clubs in a true test of resilience and ambition. Much as Virginia Dream were able to accomplish in their first round victory over the Richmond Kickers.
In a highly anticipated matchup, Virginia Dream took on Loudoun United, hoping to prove their fortitude against a seasoned USL Championship squad. In the end Loudoun United would prevail, 4-2 to advance to the Third Round.
Loudoun’s Zach Ryan knew it would be a competitive game.
“We saw what they did to Richmond.”
With both teams eager to make a statement, the stage was set for a thrilling contest—one that delivered drama, intensity, and moments of brilliance.
The game began with an immediate big ball from Loudoun’s keeper and immediately drew a foul, setting the tone of the match. Loudoun won the half battle in all categorical stats.
Dream’s best chance came in the third minute with a mistake from Loudoun’s right back, but the chance was put wide. With this being their best look of the half Dream began to fall behind. All began to look down for the Dream when Malcolm McAllister picked up a yellow for a smack to the face.
Looking to capitalize and control momentum, Loudoun were able to keep the ball, and then create several opportunities with the Dream defense spread. This allowed them to spray the ball wide and over the top. Leading to several chances early.
An ambitious chance came from Florian Valot, who looked to chip the goalie from the halfway line. Showcasing Loudoun’s comfort in the attack.
After a yellow card, chances began to flow for Loudoun. In the 42nd minute a header by Riley Bidois off a corner broke the deadlock.
Dream looked to get even, after the goal, with a great free kick chance claimed easily by Loudoun’s keeper.
As the second half began, Dream came out pressing early, trying to disrupt Loudoun’s rhythm, which proved vital as it was the visitors who capitalized at 50 minutes off a goal by Akingbolahan Akinkoye.
A goal 9 minutes later on a pass threaded to an onrushing Ben Mines put Loudoun in the lead 2-1 and Dream on the back foot.
“Getting out and running in transition is when I am at my best,” said Mines.
Loudoun’s ability to control possession forced Dream into a reactive approach, and as the game progressed, the physicality ramped up. Fouls piled up on both sides, making for a chippy contest.
Loudoun made second-half substitutions to maintain their edge. With impactful subs coming on, Loudoun struck again as Zach Ryan scored in the 77th minute.
A late push saw Dream pull one back through their big number 9 Nicolas Likulia in the 86th, but Loudoun’s ability to build from the back and execute in transition ultimately secured the result.
A stoppage-time goal by Ryan put the match to bed and secured him the brace. Ending Dream’s hopes of a late equalizer in a hard-fought, midweek battle.
In the end, Loudoun United’s quality and depth proved too much for Virginia Dream, sealing a hard-fought victory in the U.S. Open Cup clash.
Despite Dream’s early pressure in the second half and a late push later that same half, Loudoun’s ability to control possession, capitalize on key moments, and execute in transition made all the difference.
The match saw growing physicality as both teams fought for every inch, picking up several cards on the way, but Loudoun’s composure in front of goal ultimately secured the win.
Notably, some of Loudoun’s biggest impact players came off the bench, demonstrating their squad depth and ability to close out games when it mattered most.
Dream showed flashes of promise, including a well-earned late goal, but struggled to sustain offensive momentum against a disciplined and strong Loudoun defense.
Loudoun’s extra firepower and late-game execution ensured their place in the next round, ending Dream’s dream in the U.S. Open Cup.