• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • US Open Cup Central
  • US Open Cup Qualifying
  • US Open Cup History
  • Amateur Cup

Complete U.S. Open Cup Coverage

  • 2026 USOC Schedule
  • 2026 USOC Stat Leaders
  • 2027 USOC Qualifying Results
  • TheCup.us Awards
  • Join TheCup.us Patreon!
  • Contact Us

2027 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2 Preview: 32 games on tap Saturday, 31 more Sunday

October 3, 2026 by Chuck Nolan Jr.

Photo: Carlos Hernandez – Black Cat Photography – IG @black_catphoto | Graphic: Frank Lanham

The largest round of Open Division qualifying in the Modern Era kicks off on Saturday, October 3 when 64 teams face off in 32 matches. 62 more clubs finish the Second Round the following day on October 4. The 126 teams in this year’s Second Round eclipses the then-record 118 teams that took part in the 2026 Second Round of qualifying. One team has already advanced to the Third Round, as the UPSL’s Columbus Astray were awarded a 1-0 forfeit victory over West Virginia United of USL League Two.

The 64 winners from Round Two will meet in the Third Round on Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2026. The Final Round of qualifying will be on Nov. 21-22, 2026, when 16 teams will make the cut for the 2027 U.S. Open Cup, joining the other 16 clubs from the Open Division who have already earned spots in next year’s tournament.

TheCup.us will have live updates, including video links where available from every game of the round on X (Twitter) and Blue Sky. 

* Join our Patreon team!
* 2027 USOC Qualifying Schedule/Results
* 2026 USOC Schedule/Results
* 2026 USOC Stat Leaders
* 2026 USOC Player of the Round winners
* 1995 USOC Rewind Series

* Subscribe to our newsletter!
* Follow TheCup.us on X (@USOpenCup)
* Follow TheCup.us on BlueSky
* Follow TheCup.us on Facebook
* Follow TheCup.us on Instagram
* Contact us HERE

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3

Vereinigung Erzgebirge (APSL / USASA)
vs. 
Philadelphia Soccer Club (APSL / USASA)
Vereinigung Erzgebirge Clubhouse – Warminster, PA
Kickoff: 2 p.m. ET

Vereinigung Erzgebirge (Warminster, PA)

Vereinigung Erzgebirge continues their quest for Open Cup berth #3 after falling short the last three years.VE has entered every edition of qualifying since it was revamped in 2016 and qualified once in 2002 and again in 2024. Last year they reached the Third Round of qualifying, where they lost to Oaklyn United 2-1. VE are one of the older clubs in the qualifying field, playing their first game in 1934. VE finished 7-1-3 in the USL of PA 2026-26 season and joined the APSL Delaware River Conference for the 2026-27 season.

Philadelphia Soccer Club (Philadelphia, PA)

Philadelphia Soccer Club are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 11-5-6 in 2025-26 APSL Delaware River Conference.

Players from the Charlotte Independence (blue) and Vereinigung Erzgebirge battle for the ball in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Justin Nunez
Players from the Charlotte Independence (blue) and Vereinigung Erzgebirge battle for the ball in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Justin Nunez

Olympiacos CA (UPSL)
vs.
Irvine FC (UPSL)
Pleasant View Park – Huntington Beach, CA
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Irvine FC (Irvine, CA)

Irvine FC are making their fifth straight appearance in qualifying with the last two attempts seeing them reach the third round where they were eliminated by Laguna United each time. Irvine posted a 5-0-5 record in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

Olympiacos CA (Huntington Beach, CA)

Olympiacos CA are back in qualifying after having last appeared in 2023 qualifying. Olympiacos finished 2-0-8 in the 2026 UPSL Division 1 Spring season.


Naples United FC (Sunshine Conference League / USSSA)
vs.
Inter City FC (UPSL)
North Collier Regional Park – Naples, FL
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Naples United FC (Naples, FL)

Naples United return to qualifying after a year off. Their previous appearances in 2023 and 2025 ended after just one game. Naples United played in the NPSL from 2017-2025. The club played in the Sunshine Conference Soccer League this past summer and began playing in the 2026 UPSL Division 1 Fall season.

Naples United advanced to the Second Round with a 5-1 win over SWFL SC of the UPSL. Team captain Jonathan Gonzalez scored twice while Xavier Rimple, Gabriel Pisotoni De Oliveira and an own goal added to the scoring.

Inter City FC (Naples, FL)

Inter City are making their qualifying debut this year and posted a 9-2-1 record in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.


Steel City FC (USL League Two)
vs.
FCY New York (UPSL)
UPMC Graham Field – Pittsburgh, PA
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Steel City FC (Pittsburgh, PA)

Steel City earned their first Open Cup bid in 2024 with their performance in the 2023 NPSL season and secured a spot in the 2026 tournament through the Qualifying tournament. Steel City moved to USL League Two in 2025, In their first three seasons, Steel City played under the name Pittsburgh Hotspur. Steel City finished 9-3-0 in the 2026 USL League Two Great Forest Division and reached the Central Conference Semifinals.

Players from Steel City FC (right) and Croatia Cleveland battle for the ball in the First Round of the 2027 US Open Cup Qualifying tournament. Photo: Carlos Hernandez – Black Cat Photography – IG @black_catphoto
Players from Steel City FC (right) and Croatia Cleveland battle for the ball in the First Round of the 2027 US Open Cup Qualifying tournament. Photo: Carlos Hernandez – Black Cat Photography – IG @black_catphoto

Steel City FC advanced to the Second Round by defeating Croatia Cleveland 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. Sam Boehm tied the score just after halftime and goalkeeper Garret Watson stopped two of Croatia’s penalty attempts in the shootout.

FCY New York

Buffalo, N.Y.

FCY New York are making their third straight qualifying attempt. In their debut they reached the final round, losing to CD Faialanse 3-1, and last year crashed out in their opening game to Steel City FC 3-2. In the 2026 UPSL Spring season FCY finished 4-3-3 but managed to reach the Round of 16 in the UPSL National playoffs.

Steel City and FCY also met last year in the Second Round, with Steel City coming out on top 3-2.


Colonial SC (APSL / USASA)
vs.
Vidas United FC (APSL / USASA)
Victory Field – Plymouth Meeting, PA
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Colonial SC (Plymouth Meeting, PA)

Colonial SC are making their fourth straight qualifying attempt. Last year was the first time they advanced past their opening game. Colonial finished 3-2-5 in the USL of PA 2025-26 season and joined the APSL Delaware River Conference for the 2026-27 season.

Vidas United FC (Philadelphia, PA)

Vidas United are making their third run at qualifying, having gone out after their opening game the first two times in 2025 & 2026. Vidas finished 6-3-13 in the 2025-26 APSL Delaware River Conference.


New Jersey Alliance FC (UPSL)
vs.
Ironbound SCP (UPSL)
Athenia Steel Park – Clifton, NJ
Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. ET

New Jersey Alliance FC (Lyndhurst, NJ)

New Jersey Alliance FC are back for their 6th straight qualifying run. In 2024 and 2025 Alliance reached the Final Round, making the cut in 2025. Alliance finished 7-1-3 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season and reached the Round of 32 in the UPSL National playoffs.

New Jersey Alliance FC celebrates after defeating Steel Pulse FC 4-2 in a PK shootout (after a 2-2 draw) to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Michael Battista
New Jersey Alliance FC celebrates after defeating Steel Pulse FC 4-2 in a PK shootout (after a 2-2 draw) to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Michael Battista

Ironbound SCP (Kearny, N.J)

Ironbound SCP are back for their second attempt at qualifying after an unsuccessful debut last year. Ironbound finished 4-1-6 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

The club is the result of a merger in 2024 of the Ironbound Soccer Club and Sport Club Portuguese, a club founded in 1921 and regular participant in the Open Cup throughout its history.

New Jersey Alliance FC and Ironbound SCP have met twice in the 2026 Spring and Fall UPSL seasons. First on May 30 Alliance came out on top 2-0 on goals from Dorant Bokshi and Ronald Jones. In the Fall season on August 30 Alliance won again 4-1. Luca Campbell, Josh Geller, Christopher Rubio and Lucas Miquel Castrillo scored for Alliance and Ricardo Oliviera tallied the lone Ironbound goal.


Florida Badgers FC (UPSL)
vs.
O’Shea’s FC (UPSL)
Broward College – Pembroke Pines, FL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Florida Badgers FC (Boynton Beach, FL)

The Badgers are making their second qualifying run after finding success last year in their debut, defeating Miami United 5-3 after extra time to qualify for the 2026 US Open Cup. The Badgers finished 11-1-1 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season, reaching the Round of 32 in the UPSL National playoffs.

O’Shea’s FC (West Palm Beach, FL)

O’Shea’s FC have competed in the last four qualifying tournaments but have yet to reach the Final Round. O’Shea’s FC finished 5-3-5 in the 2026 UPSL Division 1 Spring season.

In the First Round the Badgers defeated Red Force FC 1-0, another 2026 Open Division qualifier. Dave Don scored the lone goal for the Badgers and recorded an assist in the Badgers near-upset of the Charleston Battery in the 2026 First Round this past March. 


Cape Coral City FC (UPSL)
vs.
Charlotte County FC (NPSL-RL / USASA)
William & Mary Ann Smith Sports Complex – Babcock, FL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Cape Coral City FC (Cape Coral, FL)

Cape Coral City are not only making their qualifying debut but are also making their debut as a club. The team has played five games thus far in the 2026 Fall UPSL season, its inaugural campaign.

Charlotte County FC (Punta Gorda, FL)

Charlotte County played in the NPSL-RL for the 2026 Summer season and are also fielding a team in the UPSL Division 2 Fall season.

The clubs met on August 1 in the UPSL Summer Cup, with Charlotte County winning 6-3. Raidel Ramos netted a hat trick for the winners.


CD Faialense (Bay State Soccer League / USASA)
vs.
Brockton FC United (UPSL)
Malden Catholic High School – Malden, MA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

CD Faialense (Cambridge, MA)

CD Faialense have qualified for the 2025 and 2026 Open Cups and are currently on a six-game winning streak in qualifying. Faialense won the BSSL Division 1 championship in 2023 and 2024, and finished runners-up in 2025, finishing 11-2-5. Faialense are currently 7-2-1 in the 2026 BSSL season and are also in the Semifinals of the 2026 BSSL McKenzie Cup.

Max Krause of CD Faialense rests after a 5-2 win over FC Lonestar to clinch a spot in the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: CD Faialense
Max Krause of CD Faialense rests after a 5-2 win over FC Lonestar to clinch a spot in the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: CD Faialense

Brockton FC United (Brockton, MA)

Two-time Open Cup qualifiers, Brockton FC United are back for their fifth time in Open Division qualifying. Brockton reached the final round the first four times, qualifying in 2022 & 2024. Last year they lost in their opening game to eventual 2026 qualifiers CD Faialense 1-0. Brockton finished 6-3-1 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season, reaching the UPSL National playoffs where they fell to the NY Renegades 3-0 in the Round of 32.

2022 Meet the Underdogs: Brockton FC United

CD Faialense and Brockton FC United have met twice before in Open Cup qualifying. The first meeting came in the Third Round of 2024 qualifying with Brockton FC United winning 3-2. The other meeting came last year in the Third Round once again, with Faialense gaining revenge with a 1-0 win.


WC Predators (APSL / USASA)
vs.
Oaklyn United FC (APSL / USASA)
Scott Auto Field – West Chester, PA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Oaklyn United FC (Oaklyn, NJ)

Oaklyn United are entering qualifying for the third year in a row. Last year they reached the Final Round before falling to fellow APSL club SC Vistula Garfield 2-1. Oaklyn finished 17-0-5 in the 2025-26 APSL Delaware River Conference.

WC Predators (West Chester, PA)

WC Predators changed their name from West Chester United but are still the same club that has been dominant in the amateur ranks. The Predators have qualified five times since 2016, four through the qualifying tournament and last year as 2025 National Amateur Cup winners. The club has become known for qualifying through their teams in USL League Two, NPSL, the National Amateur Cup and Open Division qualifying.

The Predators finished 20-2-0 in 2025-26 APSL Delaware River Conference., and 2025 & 2026 APSL Champions carry an unbeaten run of 47 matches across all APSL competitions. Ridge Robinson led the team with 34 goals scored.

The clubs have met twice since April in the 2025/26 APSL season. The Predators won both contests, first on April 22 3-21, made again in the APSL playoffs on June 7 2-0.


Bulldogs SC (UPSL)
vs.
Jersey Shore Boca (APSL / USASA)
Geick Park – Old Bridge, NJ
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Bulldogs SC (East Brunswick, NJ)

Bulldogs SC return for their second qualifying run after last year’s debut in which they reached the Third Round before losing to SC Vistula Garfield 1-0. The Bulldogs were 5-1-5 during the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

Jersey Shore Boca (West Creek, NJ)

After a 10-year absence Jersey Shore Boca are returning to qualifying. The only other time Boca participated in qualifying was for the 2016 Open Cup, where they reached the Final Round before losing to NY Pancyprian Freedoms 2-1. Jersey Shore finished 6-1-15 in the 2025-26 APSL Delaware River Conference.


Grove United (UPSL)
vs.
Virginia Dream FC (UPSL)
River City Sportsplex – Midlothian, VA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Grove United (Richmond, VA)

Grove United are making their second qualifying run after their debut last year, in which they reached the Third Round where they were eliminated by Briar United FC via penalties after a 1-1 draw. Grove finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season with a 3-3-4 record.

Virginia Dream FC celebrate after a 2-0 extra time win over MSI Pro in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Virginia Dream FC
Virginia Dream FC celebrate after a 2-0 extra time win over MSI Pro in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Virginia Dream FC

Virginia Dream FC (Arlington, VA)

Two-time Open Cup qualifiers Virginia Dream are out to make it three in a row this year. Making the cut in 2025 and 2026, Virginia Dream has yet to lose a qualifying game in 5 starts. Virginia Dream finished 8-2-0 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.


FC America CFL Spurs (UPSL)
vs.
Stetson FA (UPSL)
Lake Mary High School – Lake Mary, FL
Kickoff: 7:15 p.m. ET

FC America CFL Spurs (Winter Park, FL)

Two-time Open Cup qualifiers FC America CFL Spurs will make an attempt at #3 with their fourth consecutive entry into qualifying. The Spurs have reached the final in all three of their previous attempts, qualifying in 2024 and 2026, and narrowly missing three in a row in 2025 when they fell to Harbor City FC on penalties after a 0-0 draw. Spurs finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season at 9-2-1.

Stetson FA (DeLand, FL)

Stetson FA are making their second attempt at qualifying after a one-and-done effort in their debut last year. Stetson finished 4-4-3 in the 2026 UPSL Division 1 Spring season.


Green Bay Glory (Midwest Premier League / USASA)
vs.
Milwaukee Bavarians (Milwaukee Premier League / USASA)
Aldo Santaga Stadium – Green Bay, WI
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

Green Bay Glory (Green Bay, WI)

Green Bay Glory are making their Open Cup qualifying debut and finished 4-2-4 in the 2026 Midwest Premier League season. Green Bay is unique in that the club started as a women’s team in 2019, then expanded to include a men’s team in 2024.

Bavarian United celebrate the club's 2022 USASA Amatuer Cup title after a 1-0 win over Northern Virginia FC on Aug. 7, 2022. Photo: Bavarian United
Bavarian United celebrate the club’s 2022 USASA Amatuer Cup title after a 1-0 win over Northern Virginia FC on Aug. 7, 2022. Photo: Bavarian United

Milwaukee Bavarians (Glendale, WI)

Also known as Bavarian United or Bavarian SC, the club was founded in 1929 and made its first appearance in the Open Cup in 1956. Bavarian has made 9 appearances in the Open Cup in the Modern Era, but this is their first entry into Open Division qualifying. The club qualified for the 2019 & 2023 tournaments as National Amateur Cup Champions, a title the club has won six times. Milwaukee Bavarians finished 12-0-1 in the 2025-26 Milwaukee Premier League season. They also fielded a team in the Midwest Premier League, where they finished 7-0-3.

The Bavarians defeated Green Bay Glory 2-1 after extra time on July 15 in the Wisconsin Challenge Cup Final. The clubs also met twice during the 2026 Midwest Premier League season, with the Bavarians winning both games 3-1 and 2-1.


Ethos United (UPSL)
vs.
Chicago House AC (Midwest Premier League / USASA)
Lions For Hope Sports Complex – Chicago, IL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Ethos United (Lisle, IL)

Ethos United previously competed as United SC and have entered qualifying for the 2025 and 2026 Open Cups, each time being eliminated after one game. After sitting out the 2026 UPSL Spring season, the club is returning for the Fall session. Ethos also fields a team in the Greater Chicago Soccer League, where they went 9-1-2 in the Premier Division.

Ethos United advanced to the Second Round via penalty kicks over Chicago United after a 1-1 draw. Enrique Gudino scored the lone goal for Ethos, while goalkeeper Alex Ortiz saved two penalties in the shootout.

Players from Chicago House AC celebrate after beating RWB Adria 3-2 in a PK shootout (after a 1-1 draw) in the 2026 USASA Region 2 Amateur Cup Final. Photo: Victoria Sanders | @veesanders
Players from Chicago House AC celebrate after beating RWB Adria 3-2 in a PK shootout (after a 1-1 draw) in the 2026 USASA Region 2 Amateur Cup Final. Photo: Victoria Sanders | @veesanders

Chicago House AC (Elmhurst, IL)

Chicago House have reached the final round of qualifying in all four of their qualifying attempts, making the cut in 2023 and 2024, and falling via penalties to Tulsa Athletic in 2025  and losing to BOHFS St. Louis 3-2 last year. Chicago House is co-owned by Peter Wilt, who has helped start other clubs such as Chicago Fire FC, Chicago Red Stars, Indy Eleven, Forward Madison and Green Bay Voyageurs FC. House was a founding member of NISA but only played one season after a falling out with the league, prompting a move to the Midwest Premier League. 

House finished 4-2-4 in the 2026 Midwest Premier League season and won the Region II Championship in the 2026 National Amateur Cup, losing to Champions El Farolito in National Semifinals 2-0.


Sporting NTX (Metroplex Premier League / USSSA)
vs.
Denton Diablos (USL League Two)
Paul Quinn College – Dallas, TX
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Sporting NTX (McKinney, TX)

Sporting NTX are making their second appearance in Open Cup qualifying after their debut last year. Sporting finished 3-1-6 in the 2026 Metroplex Premier League season.

The Denton Diablos celebrate the club’s 2021 NPSL championship. Photo: NPSL

Denton Diablos (Denton, TX)

Denton Diablos are entering qualifying for the second straight year. Last year the Diablos reached the Final Round where they fell to ASC New Stars on penalties after a 0-0 draw. Denton has previously qualified for the 2022 Open Cup as a member of the NPSL. Denton finished 8-1-3 in the 2026 USL League Two Ranger Division, and reached USL2 playoff Semifinals where they lost to Vermont Green 7-1

This is a rematch of last year’s encounter in the First Round of 2026 qualifying, where Denton came out 6-2 winners.


Master Joga (Dallas Soccer Alliance / USASA)
vs.
Arkansas Wolves 2 (UPSL)
JJ Pearce B Field Stadium – Richardson, TX
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Master Joga (Carrollton, TX)

Master Joga are making their second appearance in Open Cup qualifying after their debut last year. Master Joga won the 2026 Summer Open 1 division of the Dallas Soccer Alliance.

Arkansas Wolves 2 (Alexander, AR)

The reserve club of the NPSL’s Arkansas Wolves make their qualifying debut this year. Wolves 2 finished 6-1-1 in the UPSL OK-AR division and advanced to the UPSL National playoffs, losing to eventual National Finalist Central Kansas United 3-2 in the Round of 32.


Osner’s FC (UPSL)
vs.
NY Renegades FC (UPSL)
Floyd Bennett Sports Complex – Brooklyn, NY
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Osner’s FC (Brooklyn, NY)

Osner’s FC are making their second ever qualifying run after debuting last year, where they were eliminated by Zum Schieder FC in the Second Round 7-3 after extra time. Osner’s finished 6-2-2 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season. 

Osner’s won their First Round game against American Soccer Club NY 3-2. Denilson Pierre, Sully Corneille and Joel Favard provided the scoring, with Favard netting the winner in the 86th minute.

NY Renegades FC (Hicksville, NY)

The NY Renegades look to earn their third U.S. Open Cup berth in a row and they enter qualifying for the fourth time. Last year the Renegades defeated Zum Schneider FC 3-2 in the final round and in 2025 qualifying got by Lansdowne Yonkers FC via penalties after a 1-1 draw.

In the 2026 UPSL Spring season the Renegades finished 9-1-0 and reached the UPSL National Semifinals where they missed out on claiming one of the two UPSL berths with a 3-1 loss to Miami United FC.

Osner’s and the Renegades met on May 16 in the UPSL Spring season. Renegades won 2-1 on goals from Sebastian Ruiz Restrepo and Reneau Rances. Frantzdy Succe scored Osner’s goal.


Lansdowne Yonkers FC (APSL / USASA)
vs.
Red Hook FC (UPSL)
Tibbetts Park – Yonkers, NY
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET

Lansdowne Yonkers FC (Yonkers, NY)

Four-time qualifiers Lansdowne Yonkers FC are making their 10th qualifying appearance.

Players from Lansdowne Yonkers FC in front of the New York City skyline. Credit: Lansdowne Yonkers FC
Players from Lansdowne Yonkers FC in front of the New York City skyline. Credit: Lansdowne Yonkers FC

Lansdowne have qualified three times through Open Division qualifying (2016, 2018, 2024) and again in 2022 as National Amateur Cup champions. They’re looking to return to the Open Cup after a three-year absence. Lansdowne finished 17-2-3 in the 2025-26 APSL Metropolitan Conference, just two points behind leaders NY Greek Americans. Lansdowne finished runners-up in the 2026 National Amateur Cup, losing to El Farolito 3-1 after extra time.

Lansdowne won their First Round game 1-0 over APSL rivals New York Athletic Club, with Seamus Keogh scoring from a free kick.

Red Hook FC (Brooklyn, NY)

Red Hook Football Club are making their debut in qualifying this year. Red Hook finished 9-0-1 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.


RGV Red Crowns (The League for Clubs / USASA)
vs.
Central TX Coyotes FC (The League for Clubs / USASA)
Harlingen Field – Harlingen, TX
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET

Central Texas Coyotes FC (Temple, TX)

Central Texas Coyotes FC are making their qualifying debut this year, and finished 4-0-6 during the 2026 season in the League for Clubs South Texas Conference

RGV Red Crowns (Harlingen, TX)

RGV Red Crowns are making their qualifying debut this year. The name Red Crowns references the red-crowned parrot which is found in some parts of Texas along the border with Mexico. RGV Red Crowns finished 7-2-1 during the 2026 season in the League for Clubs South Texas Conference

RGV Red Crowns dominated their meetings with the Coyotes in The League for Clubs 2026 season, winning both games 4-0 and 5-0.


Oklahoma United FC (The League for Clubs / USASA)
vs.
Tulsa Athletic (The League for Clubs / USASA)
Chad Richison Stadium – Edmond, OK
Kickoff: 9 p.m. ET

Oklahoma United FC (Oklahoma City, OK)

Oklahoma United FC are making their qualifying debut this year. Oklahoma United FC finished 8-1-1 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs Red River Conference and reached the League for Clubs Semifinals, losing to Iron Rose FC 3-2.

Tulsa Athletic (Tulsa, OK)

Tulsa Athletic are one of the regular qualifiers from the amateur ranks. While this is their third attempt at qualifying though the Open Division tournament, they’ve advanced to the Open Cup proper seven times, six of those under the NPSL banner, and finally in 2025 as a UPSL club. Tulsa Athletic were one of the founding members of the League for Clubs in 2024. Tulsa Athletic finished the 2026 season with a record of 5-1-4 in the League for Clubs Mid-American Conference.

In their only meeting during the 2026 League for Clubs season, Oklahoma United FC defeated Tulsa Athletic 1-0 in the South Region playoff Final on July 20 on a goal from Kai Phillip.


Aurora FC (Houston Football Association / USASA)
vs.
Houston Lions FC (United States Soccer League / USSSA)
Matias Almeyda Training Center – Houston, TX
Kickoff: 9 p.m. ET

Aurora FC (Houston, TX)

Aurora FC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 15-2-0 in the 2025-26 Houston Football Association season.

Houston Lions FC (Spring, TX)

Houston Lions FC are making their qualifying debut this year and were Champions of the 2026 USSL Texas Spring season.


Napa Valley 1839 FC (The League for Clubs / USASA)
vs.
Bay Area United FC (UPSL)
Justin Siena High School – Napa, CA
Kickoff: 9 p.m. ET

Napa Valley 1839 FC (Napa, CA)

Napa Valley 1839 FC are back for their third straight qualifying run after two unsuccessful attempts Napa Valley played eight seasons in the NPSL before moving to The League for Clubs in 2025 and also fielded a team in the UPSL. Napa Valley 1839 FC finished 5-2-3 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs NorCal conference

Bay Area United FC (Oakland, CA)

Bay Area United are back for their second consecutive qualifying run and third overall. Last year United fell in the opening round to fellow UPSL club Ariana FC 2-1 after extra time. BAU finished 7-2-1 in the 2026 UPSL NorCal South spring season.


Norcal Shockwaves (San Francisco Soccer Football League / USASA)
vs.
JSC Jasa (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
Crocker Amazon Soccer Fields – San Francisco, CA
Kickoff: 10:00 p.m. ET

Norcal Shockwaves (Sausalito, CA)

The NorCal Shockwaves are making their second ever qualifying run after debuting last year and finished 0-0-11 in the 2026 SFSFL First Division season with a -228 goal difference.

JSC Jasa (Redwood City, CA)

JSC Jasa are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 9-3-1 in the 2026 Spring SWPL/Pacific Premier League season.


San Ramon FC (The League for Clubs / USASA)
vs.
Academica SC (USL League Two)
Tiffany Roberts Field – San Ramon, CA
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET

San Ramon FC (San Ramon, CA)

2026 qualifiers San Ramon FC are back to try and make it two in a row, qualifying for the 2026 Open Cup by defeating The Olympic Club 2-1 in the Final Round. San Ramon FC finished 9-0-1 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs NorCal conference

Academica SC (Turlock, CA)

Academica returns to qualifying after a six-year absence. The club last participated in qualifying for the cancelled 2020 Open Cup, and qualified for the 2019 tournament. Academica SC finished 4-3-7 in the 2026 USL League Two NorCal Division season.


Laguna United FC (UPSL)
vs.
Temecula FC (UPSL)
La Paz Sports Park – Laguna Niguel, CA
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET

Laguna United FC (Laguna Hills, CA)

Laguna United are making their fifth straight qualifying appearance and are aiming for their third consecutive berth in the Open Cup after qualifying in 2025 and 2026. Laguna finished 8-2-3 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

Laguna United FC celebrate after defeating San Diego Internacional 6-2 to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Laguna United FC

Temecula FC (Temecula, CA)

Temecula FC returns to qualifying after a two-year absence. Temecula’s last appearance was in 2024 qualifying where they reached the final round before losing to Irvine Zeta FC 3-1. Temecula FC finished 7-1-2 in the 2026 UPSL Spring s

Temecula cruised to a 5-0 win over Problems FC in the First Round. Diego Valle scored two goals and Beto Renteria, Noah Mabra and Ronaldo Fernandez scored one each.


CV United FC (UPSL)
vs.
SF Vikings SC (San Francisco Soccer Football League / USASA)
Robertson Park – Livermore, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

CV United FC (Dublin, CA)

CV United FC made their qualifying debut last year as Ariana FC, reaching the Third Round before falling to San Francisco’s The Olympic Club 4-1. United finished the 2026 UPSL Division 1 Spring season 4-2-4. The club changed their name to CV United FC at the end of the 2026 Spring season.

SF Vikings SC (San Francisco, CA)

SF Vikings SC are one of the oldest clubs in qualifying, having been founded in 1922 and debuting in the Open Cup in the 1956 tournament. It will be their fourth year in a row entering qualifying. They have been eliminated in their opening game the previous three times. Vikings finished 9-2-11 in the 2026 SFSFL season.


Oakland Stompers (NPSL / USASA)
vs.
Sonoma Valley United (UPSL)
Antioch High School – Antioch, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

Oakland Stompers (Fairview, CA)

The Oakland Stompers are returning to qualifying for a fourth time after a four-year absence, having last taken part in qualifying for the 2022 Open Cup. The Stompers finished 6-2-2 in the 2026 NPSL season.

Sonoma Valley United (Sonoma, CA)

Sonoma Valley United are making their debut in qualifying this year. Sonoma Valley finished 2-1-7 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.


Sin City FC (NISA Nation / USASA)
vs.
STG Premier FC (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
Mater Academy East – Las Vegas, NV
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

Sin City FC (North Las Vegas, NV)

Sin City FC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 8-0-2 in the 2026 NISA Nation Spring season. Sin City also reached the Region IV Final of the 2026 National Amateur Cup.

STG Premier FC (St. George, UT)

STG Premier FC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 7-0-3 in the 2026 SWPL / Nevada Premier League Spring season.

In their opening game Sin City edged Las Vegas United FC of the SWPL 2-1. Roberto Soto scored twice with Federico Díaz García assisting on both goals.

STG had little trouble in the First Round, winning 5-0 over SWPL rivals Be Pro FC. Alvaro “Tito” Garcia and Zack Trimming Issa each had a pair of goals and Hamed Kone added #5.


International San Francisco (San Francisco Soccer Football League / USASA)
vs.
CF San Rafael (The League for Clubs / USASA)
Crocker Amazon Soccer Fields – San Francisco, CA
Kickoff: 10:30 p.m. ET

International San Francisco (San Francisco, CA)

Inter San Francisco are entering Open Cup qualifying for the sixth time. They qualified in 2023 and 2025, and reached the final round in 2024. Starting in the historic San Francisco Soccer Football League (SFSFL) 3rd tier, ISF won promotion two straight seasons after their debut in 2022. Inter SF finished 12-4-6 in the 2026 SFSFL season.

Inter San Francisco celebrates after a 5-1 win over BattleBorn FC in the 2023 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Inter San Francisco
Inter San Francisco celebrates after a 5-1 win over BattleBorn FC in the 2023 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Inter San Francisco

CF San Rafael (San Rafael, CA)

CF San Rafael return for a second try at qualifying after an unsuccessful run last year, in which they went one-and-done. San Rafael finished 2-1-7 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs NorCal conference


Capo FC (NISA Nation / USASA)
vs.
DC Monsters (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
Vista Hermosa Sports Park – San Clemente, CA
Kickoff: 10:45 p.m. ET

Capo FC (San Juan Capistrano, CA)

After a two-year layoff Capo FC is returning to qualifying. Capo had previously entered from 2022-2024, reaching the Final Round in 2022 and qualifying in 2023. Capo participated in the 2024 Open Cup as a professional club through NISA. Capo FC finished 4-0-6 in the 2026 NISA Nation Spring season.

Players from Orange County SC and Capo FC battle for the ball in their match in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Orange County SC
Players from Orange County SC and Capo FC battle for the ball in their match in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Orange County SC

DC Monsters (Redondo Beach, CA)

Formerly LA Monsters, the club changed to DC monsters over the summer. Monsters have entered qualifying six precious times, but this is their return after a three-year hiatus. Monsters reached the Final Round in 2016, 2018 and 2020, but have yet to qualify for the Open Cup. DC Monsters finished 3-2-2 in the 2026 Spring SWPL/Socal Premier League season.


San Diego Internacional FC (UPSL)
vs.
Chula Vista FC (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
Mission Bay High School – San Diego, CA
Kickoff: 11 p.m. ET

San Diego Internacional FC (San Diego, CA)

San Diego Internacional FC are making their third qualifying attempt and have reached the final round in the previous two but came up short, losing to Laguna United both times in 2025 & 2026. Internacional finished 7-1-2 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

Chula Vista FC (Chula Vista, CA)

Chula Vista FC celebrate after winning a PK shootout against LA Monsters FC that clinches a spot in the 2020 US Open Cup. Photo: Steve Wood | Chula Vista FC
Chula Vista FC celebrate after winning a PK shootout against LA Monsters FC that clinches a spot in the 2020 US Open Cup. Photo: Steve Wood | Chula Vista FC

This is Chula Vista FC’s eighth entry into qualifying, only missing out in 2023, 2024 and 2026. The club has qualified for the 2017 Open Cup and the cancelled 2020 Edition. CVFC also qualified for the 2015 Open Cup, reaching the Third Round where they fell to the Sacramento Republic 7-3. The last qualifying game Chula Vista played was in 2025, when they lost to San Diego Internacional 3-2 in the Third Round. Chula Vista finished 8-1-0 in the 2026 Spring SWPL/San Diego Super Liga season.


SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4

In the lone game not scheduled for this weekend, the UPSL’s Columbus Astray were awarded a 1-0 forfeit victory over West Virginia United of USL League Two.

Columbus Astray are making their qualifying debut and finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season with a record of 6-1-3.

Mockingbird Valley Premier (Ohio Valley Premier League / US Club Soccer)
vs.
Tennessee Tempo (UPSL)
Mercy Academy – Louisville, KY
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET

Mockingbird Valley Premier (Louisville, KY)

Mockingbird Valley Premier are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 9-1-0 in the 2026 Ohio Valley Premier League season.

Mockingbird Valley Premier had to work an extra 30 minutes to defeat the UPSL’s Southern Indiana Guardians FC 3-1 in the First Round. Former Louisville City player Richard Ballard scored from the penalty spot in regulation, and Igor Ibrahimovic and Dylan Tufty scored early in extra time.

Tennessee Tempo FC (Nashville, TN)

Qualifying in 2026 as the 2025 UPSL Spring Champions, Tennessee Tempo are back in the qualifying mix after failing to defend their championship. In their previous two qualifying attempts Tennessee reached the Final round each time, qualifying in 2023 (as Beaman United) but falling short in 2024. Tennessee Tempo finished 11-1-0 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season and made it to the Round of 16 in the UPSL national playoffs.

Tennessee Tempo had no trouble in their First Round game versus UPSL rivals Tennessee United, coasting to a 6-0 win. Mario Rodriguez scored twice and Medina Scarlett, Omarian Obrian, Mike Rozkhov and Nico Riveros added single goals.


New Amsterdam FC (Cosmopolitan Soccer League / USASA)
vs.
New York Greek American SC (APSL / USASA)
York College – Jamaica, NY
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET

New York Greek American SC (Astoria, NY)

One of the legendary clubs of the U.S. Open Cup, four-time US Open Cup champions (1967, 1968, 1969, 1974) New York Greek American SC have had struggled to return to the competition proper. NYGA have qualified for the Open Cup six times in the Modern Era, but in their seven attempts since Open Division qualifying was revamped in 2016 they have won just one game outright. NY Greek American finished 17-4-1 in 2025-26 APSL Metropolitan Conference, two points ahead of second place Landsdowne Yonkers.

Josh Trott (No. 9) celebrates one of his two goals with his New York Greek American Atlas teammates in their 2-0 win over Ocean City Nor’easters. Photo: Paul Rudderow | PhillySoccerPage.net

New Amsterdam FC (New York, NY)

The former NISA club that folded in 2022 has been resurrected and will take part in 2027 qualifying. New Amsterdam FC has never participated in qualifying, although their reserve team took part in qualifying for the 2022 tournament. New Amsterdam will take part in the 2026-27 Cosmopolitan Soccer League Division 1 season.


South Coast Union (UPSL)
vs.
Fall River FC (UPSL)
Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical HS – New Bedford, MA
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET

South Coast Union (New Bedford, MA)

South Coast Union are making their debut in qualifying this year.  South Coast finished 4-1-5 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season

Fall River FC (Fall River, MA)

The Open Cup returns to one of its more historic cities when Fall River FC makes its qualifying debut. Home to such legendary team as the Fall River Rovers, Fall River Marksmen an Ponta Delgada, this will be the first time a club from Fall River will participate in the Open Cup in the Modern Era. Fall River FC finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season with a 3-5-2 record.

South Coast Union and Fall River FC faced each other twice during the 2026 UPSL Spring season. In the season opener on April 4 South Coast prevailed 2-0 on goals from Dominique Baessa and Jose Juarez. IN the final game of the season on June 6, Benjamin Novo scored the lone goal as Fall River won 1-0.


FC Omens (Bay State Soccer League / USASA)
vs.
Atletico Boston (Bay State Soccer League / USASA)
West Roxbury High School – West Roxbury, MA
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET

FC Omens (Cambridge, MA)

FC Omens are participating in their eighth qualifying tournament since 2016. Omens reached the final round of qualifying in 2016 and qualified for the Open Cup in 2017, where they made a run to the Third Round against the USL’s Rochester Rhinos. Omens also made the Open Cup field in 2013, 2014 and 2015. 

Recent attempts have been a struggle, being eliminated in their opening game the last three years. FC Omens finished 9-3-6 in the 2025 Bay State Soccer League season and are currently 5-2-3 in the 2026 BSSL season.

GPS Omens (white) defeated Boston City FC 2-1 in the Second Round of the 2017 US Open Cup. Photo: Boston City FC
GPS Omens (white) defeated Boston City FC 2-1 in the Second Round of the 2017 US Open Cup. Photo: Boston City FC

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Camaraderie spurs Boston-based GPS Omens to US Open Cup glory

Atletico Boston (Andover, MA)

Formerly known as Southie FC and Boston United, Atletico won promotion from the Bay State Soccer League 3rd tier up to the top league in 2022 and 2023. Renamed Atletico Boston, the club won the Massachusetts State Cup and the Massachusetts Soccer Champions Cup in 2024. As Southie FC they entered Open Division qualifying four times from 2016-2019, qualifying once in 2016. 

After three year absence (2022-2025) Atletico returned to qualifying last year, reaching the Third Round where they were eliminated via penalties by FC Lonestar GPSE after a 2-2 draw. Atletico Boston finished 11-0-7 in the 2025 Bay State Soccer League season and are currently 3-3-2 in the 2026 BSSL season and are in the Semifinals of the 2026 BSSL McKenzie Cup, which they won in 2025.

Protagonist Soccer: Under the Lights-Atletico Boston


Somerville United FC (APSL / USASA)
vs.
KO Elites FC (APSL / USASA)
Dilboy Stadium – Somerville, MA
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET

Somerville United FC (Brighton, MA)

Somerville United FC are making their qualifying debut this year. Somerville United FC finished 10-2-2 in the 2025-26 APSL Mayflower Conference.

KO Elites FC (West Hartford, CT)

KO Elites FC are making their qualifying debut this year. KO finished 11-1-0 in 2025-26 APSL Constitution Conference


Los Toros (UPSL)
vs.
Bowleys Athletic (MD / UPSL)
South Lakes High School – Reston, VA
Kickoff: 3 p.m. ET

Los Toros (Great Falls, VA)

Los Toros will hopefully make their qualifying debut this year. The club registered for last year’s qualifiers but ultimately withdrew. Los Toros finished 6-3-1 and reached the Round of 32 in the UPSL National playoffs. Los Torps reached the Region I final of the 2026 National Amateur Cup, losing to Lansdowne Yonkers 3-0.

Bowleys Athletic (Bowleys Quarters, MD)

Located a half hour to the East of Baltimore on the Chesapeake Bay, Bowleys Athletic are making their qualifying debut this year. Bowleys finished 8-1-1 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

Bowleys got their qualifying run started on the right foot with a 4-1 win over UPSL rivals MSI. Bryson Baker and Greg Adams had two goals each.

Bowleys and Los Toros met recently in the 2026 UPSL Fall season. On September 19, Los Toros won 2-0. Nelsar Castillo and Arjun Wente scored for Los Toros.


Philadelphia Lone Star FC (UPSL)
vs.
Pennsylvania Prime FC (UPSL)
John Bartram High School Stadium – Philadelphia, PA
Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. ET

Philadelphia Lone Star FC (Philadelphia, PA)

Philadelphia Lone Star FC returns to qualifying for the sixth time after a three-year absence. Lone Star previously qualified for the 2017 Open Cup and reached the final round in 2022, where they lost to Brockton FC United 5-0. Lone Star finished 7-2-2 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season

Pennsylvania Prime FC (Allentown, PA)

Pennsylvania Prime FC are making their debut in qualifying. Prime finished 3-1-6 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season

Lone Star and Prime have met once in each of the 2026 Spring and Fall UPSL seasons. On May 23 Lone Star won 5-0 with Chrisofeso Simmons scoring twice and Mohamed Bility, Bill Walleekendeh and Alvin Dahn rounded out the scoring. Then on August 16 Lone Star prevailed again 4-2 with a hat-trick from Alvin Dahn and Patrick Singbah adding a goal. Nigel Griffitgh had both of the Primed goal\s.


Harpos FC (Colorado Premier League / USSSA)
vs.
Azteca FC 5280 (Colorado Premier League / USSSA)
Broomfield Commons – Broomfield, CO
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET

Harpos FC (Boulder, CO)

This is the eleventh qualifying appearance for Harpos, having entered qualifying every year since 2016. They’ve compiled a record of 15-7-2 over that time, reaching the final round six times and qualifying three times. Last year Harpos had a disappointing effort, falling tp\oi Azteca 1-0 in the Third Round. In 2025 Harpos finally made it back to the Open Cup after their only other appearance in 2016. They also qualified for the canceled tournament in 2020.

Harpos FC celebrate after a 2-0 win over Azteca FC as they qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Andrew Mosier
Harpos FC celebrate after a 2-0 win over Azteca FC as they qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Andrew Mosier

Harpos FC finished 6-0-1 in the 2026 Colorado Premier League Spring season.

2015 Meet the Underdogs: Harpo’s FC

2016 Meet the Underdogs: Harpo’s FC

Azteca FC 5280 (Denver, CO)

Azteca are one of the grizzled veterans of Open Division qualifying, having entered every qualifying tournament except 2016 and 2019. Azteca qualified for the Open Cup in 2017, 2018, 2022, 2024 and 2026 and reached the final round of qualifying in 2020, 2023 and 2025. Azteca FC 5280 finished 6-0-0 in the 2026 Colorado Premier League Spring season.

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Azteca FC

2022 Meet the Underdogs: Azteca FC

The Open Cup eternal rivalry between Harpos FC and Azteca FC 5280. Besides playing in the same league the two clubs always manage to find each other in Open Cup qualifying. The Colorado Premier League rivals have met in each of the last three qualifying tournaments and six times overall.

Four of those games were in the final ‘Win and You’re In” round. Harpos holds the advantage at 4-2, though Azteca broke through to qualify for the 2025 Open Cup and eliminated Harpos last year on their way to qualifying for the 2026 Open Cup.

More recently, Harpos kicked off the CPL Fall season with a 5-1 win over the Azteca U23 team, and Azteca topped Harpos 3-1 in their Spring meeting on May 17.


Shark Coast FC (USL League Two)
vs.
Bold City SC (UPSL)
New Smyrna Beach Sports Complex – New Smyrna Beach, FL
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Shark Coast FC (New Smyrna Beach, FL)

Shark Coast FC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 2-6-4 in the 2026 USL League Two Southeast Division.

Shark Coast won their first ever qualifying game, defeating FC Kanks of the UPSL 2-1. Nathan Mansanto put Shark Coast up 1-0 after five minutes and Wade Stinson scored late in the game to secure the victory.

Bold City SC (Jacksonville, FL)

Bold City is making their second qualifying attempt after last year’s debut. Bold City reached the Third Round last year, falling to UPSL rivals Harbor City FC 3-2 after extra time. The name Bold City comes from one of Jacksonville’s nicknames. Bold City finished 7-1-4 in the 2026 UPSL Florida Central Spring season.


BOHFS St. Louis (Midwest Premier League / USASA)
vs.
Chicago Nation FC (UPSL)
Sport 360 – St. Charles, MO
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. ET

BOHFS St. Louis (St. Louis, MO)

BOHFS had a successful debut last year, qualifying for the 2026 Open Cup by defeating Chicago Houser AC 3-2 in the Final Round. BOHFS finished 5-2-3 in the 2026 Midwest Premier League season.

BOHFS St. Louis celebrates after defeating Chicago House 3-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: BOHFS St. Louis
BOHFS St. Louis celebrates after defeating Chicago House 3-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: BOHFS St. Louis

Protagonist Soccer: Who Are Ya!: BOHFS St Louis

U.S. Soccer: BOHFS St. Louis in the U.S. Open Cup and the Enduring Spirit of Soccer in St. Louis

Chicago Nation FC (Chicago, IL)

Chicago Nation FC may be making their qualifying debut but they are one of the more accomplished teams in the UPSL. Nation finished the 2026 Spring UPSL season with a 9-0-1 record and reached the Eastern Final in the 2025 Fall UPSL season and the National Semifinals in the 2023 & 2025 Spring seasons.


Mint Hill FC (NPSL / USASA)
vs.
Briar United FC (NC / UPSL)
Queens University Sports Complex – Charlotte, NC
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. ET

Mint Hill FC (Mint Hill, NC)

Mint Hill finished 3-1-6 in the 2026 NPSL season and are attempting to qualify for the Open Cup for the fifth straight year. In those attempted, they have yet to reach the Final Round. Mint Hill finished 9-3-0 in the North Carolina Soccer League and are playing in the UPSL for the Fall season.

Briar United FC (Raleigh, NC)

Briar posted a 6-1-3 record for the 2026 UPSL Spring season and are making their second qualifying attempt this year. Last year Briar reached the Final Round, losing 2-0 to Southern Indiana FC.


Detroit Metro FC (UPSL)
vs.
Akron City FC (USL League Two)
Legacy Center – Brighton, MI
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Detroit Metro FC (Novi, MI)

Detroit Metro are making their second qualifying attempt and will try to do better than last year’s 5-2 loss in the Second Round to Croatia Cleveland. Metro finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season with a 3-1-6 record.

Akron City FC (Akron, OH)

Akron City are making their second qualifying appearance after their debut last year. Akron City finished 6-1-5 in the 2026 USL League Two Great Forest Division

In their First Round game Akron jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead but had to hold on to beat USL League Two rivals Lorain County Leviathan 4-3. Tamas Nagy and Ali Alomari each had a pair of goals.


SCU Heat (UPSL)
vs.
Kalonji Pro-Profile (UPSL)
Southeastern Freight Lines Stadium – Columbia, SC
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

SCU Heat (Columbia, SC)

South Carolina United Heat celebrate after defeating Crown Legacy FC 1-0 in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Forrest Wimberly
South Carolina United Heat celebrate after defeating Crown Legacy FC 1-0 in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Forrest Wimberly

2024 qualifiers SCU Heat return for their sixth go at qualifying. SCU reached the Final Round in their first three times in 2022, 2023 & 2024, while the last two have been one and done. SCU finished 9-2-0 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season and made it to the South region Final, losing to Miami United via penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Kalonji Pro-Profile (Dacula, GA)

Kalonji Pro-Profile are seeking to qualify for their second Open Cup in a row after making the cut in 2026. Despite losing the First Round match to Chattanooga FC of MLS NEXT Pro, Kalonji made headlines as 14-year-old Braiden Kalonji became the youngest goalscorer on record in the Modern Era of the Open Cup. Kalonji finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season with a perfect 10-0-0 record, allowing just four goals.

Kalonji survived a wild 5-4 shootout in the First Round with Peachtree FC. Former Jamaica Premier League forward Zain Hylton scored four of the five goals for Kalonji and Savik Morton had the other.


FC Denver (Colorado Premier League / USSSA)
vs.
Peak XI FC (Mountain Premier League / USASA)
Northfield High School – Denver, CO
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

FC Denver (Denver, CO)

FC Denver has participated in every Open Division qualifying tournament except the first one in 2016. They qualified for the Open Cup in 2018 and 2019, and last year was the first time since 2022 that Denver failed to advance past their opening game. FC Denver posted a 3-1-3 record in the 2026 Spring Colorado Premier League season.

FC Denver defeated Timbers FC 6-0 in their opening game. After the Timber goalkeeper was shown a red card in the 36th minute, Denver began to score. Lorenz Hoover and Joshua Guzman had two goals each with Roque Flores Marko Isakovic adding goals.

Players from Peak Eleven (foreground) and FC Denver battle for the ball in the First Round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Brian Martagon De La Rosa (11_brian_mdlr on IG) with DT Sports (DTSportsTV on IG)
Players from Peak Eleven (foreground) and FC Denver battle for the ball in the First Round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Brian Martagon De La Rosa (11_brian_mdlr on IG) with DT Sports (DTSportsTV on IG)

Peak XI FC (Superior, CO)

Peal Eleven are making their sixth consecutive appearance in qualifying, beginning with their debut in 2022. Last year Peak snapped a string of three straight one-and-done affairs, though they were eliminated in the next round. Peak Eleven finished 1-2-5 in the 2026 Summer Mountain Premier League season.

Peak XI FC advanced to the Second Round with a 4-0 win over the Colorado Rovers of the Colorado Premier League. Miguel Camorlinga and Joseph Mandevani added to Taylor Smyser’s two goals.


FORO SC (The League for Clubs / USASA)
vs.
Inter Nova Havoc (Metroplex Premier League / USSSA)
The Highlands School – Irving, TX
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

FORO SC (Dallas, TX)

Two-time qualifiers FORO SC will try to make up for a disappointing outing last year. FORO qualified in 2024 and 2025 and staged a memorable upset of Austin FC II in the 2024 Open Cup and followed up in 2025 by defeating USL League One club Texoma FC 2-1 after extra time. Last year, FORO crashed out last year in their opening game of qualifying. 

FORO finished 3-2-5 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs Red River Northeast Conference, and their APSL team reached the APSL Championship.

Foro kicked off 2027 qualifying with a 4-1 win over StrikerZ DFW of the Dallas Soccer Alliance. Brayan Padilla, Sebastian Coronado, Jacob Tekle and Rafael Rodriguez scored for FORO.

FORO SC players celebrate during the club's extra time win over Texoma FC in the First Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Jimbec Photography - IG @jimbec_photography
FORO SC players celebrate during the club’s extra time win over Texoma FC in the First Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Jimbec Photography – IG @jimbec_photography

Inter Nova Havoc (Denton, TX)

Inter Nova Havoc are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 7-0-3 in the 2026 Metroplex Premier League season.


Yinz United (Super Soccer League / USASA)
vs.
Doradus FC (UPSL)
Oakton High School – Vienna, VA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Yinz United (Washington, D.C.)

Yinz United are making their third qualifying appearance in the last four years, having gone out in the opening round last year. While based in Maryland, the club was founded by a group from Pittsburgh is where the clubs’ black and gold colors and the team name originates. Yinz is slang in Western Pennsylvania for the term “ya’ll”.

Yinz United finished 7-2-1 in the 2026 Super Soccer League Virginia division and won the SSL Championship over Baltimore City FC.

Yins United posted the biggest score of the First Round, dismantling Patuxent FA of the APSL 10-1. Hamza Moosvi scored five times, Viktor Petrusevski netted two and Jeff Rosenberg, Malik Thom and Jose Noriega rounded out the scoring.

Doradus FC (Alexandria, VA)

Doradus FC are making their third ever qualifying attempt and second in a row. Last year they reached the Second Round before losing to Virginia Dream 2-1. Doradus finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season with a 7-0-3 record.

Doradus FC knocked off one of the better teams in qualifying, defeating Northern Virginia FC 2-1 after extra time. Collins Frimpong scored for Doradus in regulation and scored again from the penalty spot in extra time.


Real Central NJ Soccer (APSL / USASA)
vs.
FC Monmouth (The League for Clubs / USASA)
Mercer County Community College – West Windsor, NJ
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Real Central NJ Soccer (Pennington, NJ)

Real Central NJ Soccer are entering qualifying for the fourth time, having gone on-and-done the previous three times. Real Central NJ finished 13-2-7 in the 2025-26 APSL Delaware River Conference.

FC Monmouth (Red Bank, NJ)

FC Monmouth returns for a second try at qualifying after an unsuccessful run last year, in which they went one-and-done. Monmouth played in the NPSL from 2018-2024 before joing The League for Clubs in 2025. FC Monmouth finished 4-1-3 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs Conference.


SC Vistula Garfield (APSL / USASA)\
vs.
FC Motown (NPSL / USASA)
Garfield High School – Garfield, NJ
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

SC Vistula Garfield (Garfield, NJ)

SC Vistula Garfield are making their sixth qualifying appearance in a row, and came close to qualifying on their first try in 2022, when they were beaten by Lansdowne Yonkers 2-0 in the final round. Vistula finally made the cut last year with a 2-1 win over Oaklyn United.

Founded in 1952, Vistula have entered the Open Cup off and on since the early 1970s. Vistula finished 7-2-13 in the 2025-26 APSL Metropolitan Conference.

After spotting Five Rivers SC a 1-0 lead at the half, Vistula scored four unanswered goals in the second half to win 4-1 in the First Round. Emiland Elezaj, Gabriel Costa, John McGeechan and Martin Czovek all scored for the winners.

FC Motown 2022 US Open Cup AC Syracuse Pulse
Federico De Olivera of FC Motown celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against AC Syracuse Pulse in the Second Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Peter Bonilla

FC Motown (Morristown, NJ)

FC Motown enters qualifying for the first time since 2017, when they qualified for the first time as FC Motown. The club was founded in 2012 as FC Morristown and entered a working relationship with Clarkstown SC Eagles of the NPSL, who rebranded as FC Motown in 2017. Motown has qualified for every U.S. Open Cup tournament since 2017, mostly through the NPSL. This is the first time Motown did not qualify through the NPSL or USL League Two.

FC Motown finished 6-1-3 in the 2026 NPSL season, and 10-1-1 in the USL League Two season.


NY Pancyprian Freedoms (APSL / USASA)
vs.

NY Dash FC (UPSL)
Floyd Bennett Sports Complex; Brooklyn, NY
Kickoff: 2:15 p.m. ET

NY Pancyprian Freedoms (Queens, NY)

The three-time US Open Cup champions (1980, 1982, 1983) have entered qualifying every year since 2016 except for 2025, when they gained an Open Cup berth as National Amateur Cup Champions. The Freedoms have qualified twice since 2016, and six additional times in the Modern Era. The Pancyprian Freedoms finished 15-0-7 in 2025-26 APSL Metropolitan Conference.

Players from FC Cincinnati 2 (left) and NY Pancyprian Freedoms battle for the ball in a First Round match in the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Cortney Lesovoy/FC Cincinnati
Players from FC Cincinnati 2 (left) and NY Pancyprian Freedoms battle for the ball in a First Round match in the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Cortney Lesovoy/FC Cincinnati

NY Dash FC (Elmont, NY)

The NY Dash are competing in qualifying for the first time, and play in the UPSL Division 2, where they finished the 2026 Spring season 8-2-0.


Real Houston Futbol Club (United States Soccer League / USSSA)
vs.
ASC New Stars (Houston Football Association / USASA)
Azteca Soccer League Park – Houston, TX
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Real Houston Futbol Club (Houston, TX)

Real Houston Futbol Club are making their qualifying debut this year and played in  USSL Texas.

ASC New Stars (Houston, TX)

2026 qualifiers ASC New Stars are making their third attempt at Open Division qualifying, having made the cut after topping the Denton Diablos via penalty shootout in the Final Round last year. ASC (Aria Soccer Club) are no strangers to the Open Cup, having qualified three times (2008, 2011, 2012) before Open Division qualifying was re-organized in 2016.

ASC New Stars celebrate after defeating Denton Diablos 4-3 in a PK shootout (after a 0-0 draw) in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: ASC New Stars
ASC New Stars celebrate after defeating Denton Diablos 4-3 in a PK shootout (after a 0-0 draw) in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: ASC New Stars

ASC New Stars finished 11-2-4 in the 2025-26 Houston Football Association season, and also reached the Region III Final of the National Amateur Cup in 2025.


Pinellas County United Pelicans SC (UPSL)
vs.
Kissimmee SC (UPSL)
Walter Fuller Soccer Complex – St. Petersburg, FL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Pinellas County United Pelicans SC (St. Petersburg, FL)

Pinellas County United Pelicans SC are making their second qualifying appearance after their debut last year. PCU Pelicans finished 9-1-2 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season

Kissimmee SC (Kissimmee, FL)

Kissimmee SC are making their second qualifying appearance after their debut last year, in which they exited in their opening game with a 6-0 loss to FC America CFL Spurs. Kissimmee finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season at 10-2-0


Potros FC (UPSL)
vs.
Terminus FC (Atlanta District Amateur Soccer League / USASA)
Marietta High School – Marietta, GA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Potros FC (Powder Springs, GA)

Potros FC returns to qualifying after nearly making the cut in their debut last year, in which they lost to Kalonji Pro-Profile 1-0 in the Final Round. Potros finished 2-4-4 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

Potros were the last team to advance to the Second Round, as their game versus Buckhead SC was postponed a week due to a waterlogged field. When the game was played a week later Potros were 3-1 winners, Porfirio Carrasco-Diaz, Danny Moreira and Marc “Dadynho” Bineau accounted for the Potros goals.

Terminus FC (Atlanta, GA)

Terminus are making their third qualifying appearance in the last four years and have yet to advance past the opening game. Terminus finished 16-1-4 in the 2025-26 Atlanta District Amateur Soccer League season.

Terminus rolled over the UPSL’s UFA Lawrenceville 6-0 in the First Round. Jean Malilo led the way with a hat-trick, Akani Agbaje added two goals and Colin Vogel had #6.


Swarm FC (USL League Two)
vs.
Lake Country United FC (UPSL)
Marathon Soccer Park – Austell, GA
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

Swarm FC (Dallas, GA)

Swarm FC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 7-5-0 in the 2026 USL League Two South Central Division.

Swarm FC won their qualifying debut 5-0 over the APSL’s Prima FC. Scoring for Swarm were Rodrigo Lopez, Matheus Brandao and Segun Afolabi, along with an own goal.

Lake Country United FC (Eatonton, GA)

Lake Country United FC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished the 2026 UPSL Division 1 Spring season at 8-0-1.


Palm Beach Flames SC (UPSL)
vs.
Harbor City FC (UPSL)
Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School – Wellington, FL
Kickoff: 7:45 p.m. ET

Palm Beach Flames SC (Tequesta, FL)

Palm Beach Flames SC are entering their third straight qualifying run after being eliminated in the first two in the Third Round. Palm Beach finished 7-0-6 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.

Harbor City FC (Melbourne Beach, FL)

2025 qualifiers Harbor City FC are making their fourth consecutive qualifying run and have reached the final round the last two times. Harbor City finished 7-0-5 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.


Dreamers AFC (Premier Futbol League / USASA)
vs.
Boca Jrs. Miami FC (UPSL)
Miami Dade College – Kendall – Miami, FL
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Dreamers AFC (Miami, FL)

Dreamers AFC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 4-1-4 in the Premier Futbol League 2026 Spring season.

Boca Jrs. Miami FC (Margate, Fla.)

Boca Jrs. Miami FC are making their second ever qualifying attempt after their debut last year, which was halted after one game by a 3-0 loss to Miami United FC. Boca finished 6-2-5 in the 2026 Spring UPSL Division 1 season.

In the First Round Boca Jrs, Miami survived a comeback attempt to hold on for a 3-2 win over Florida Island United FC of the UPSL. Miami jumped put to a 3-0 lead and  Island United managed to pull two goals back but fell short. Douglas Silveira scored  two goals for Miami and Leonel Milano got the other.


Aegean Hawks FC (American Premier League / USASA)
vs.
DC Hyper (UPSL)
Langley High School – McLean, VA
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Aegean Hawks FC (Washington D.C.)

Aegean Hawks (named by club founders after Greek military helicopters) are well seasoned in Open Cup qualifying. They have entered nine of the first ten qualifying tournaments, skipping last year. While they have qualified for the Open Cup three times (2007, 2009 and 2012), they have failed to qualify since Open Division qualifying was revised in 2016. In 2025 qualifying they finally broke through to reach the Final Round, where they lost to Virginia Dream 2-1.

Aegean Hawks (black) take on Christos FC in a 2018 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Sean Maslin
Aegean Hawks (black) take on Christos FC in a 2018 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Sean Maslin

The Hawks finished 6-0-3 in the 2026 Spring American Premier League season.

DC Hyper (Washington, D.C.)

DC Hyper returns to qualifying after taking last year off. Their initial qualifying run for the 2025 Cup ended after their opening game. After taking the first half of 2026 off Hyper has returned for the 2026 UPSL Fall season.


Woodland Football Club (Midwest Premier League / USASA)
vs.
Omaha Street FC (NE / UPSL)
St. Joseph Athletic Field – Shawnee, KS
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Woodland Football Club (Overland Park, KS)

Entering qualifying for the third year in a row, Woodland are still looking for their first qualifying win. Woodland finished 3-3-4 in the 2026 Midwest Premier League season.

Omaha Street FC (Bennington, NE)

Omaha Street FC are making their second ever qualifying run after debuting last year, where they were eliminated by BOHFS St. Louis in the Third Round 4-2. Omaha finished 8-0-2 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season.


ATX United (Austin Men’s Soccer Association / USASA)
vs.
Capital City SC (The League for Clubs / USASA)
Round Rock Multipurpose Complex – Round Rock, TX
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET

ATX United (Austin, TX)

ATX United are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 14-0-4 in the 2025-26 Austin Men’s Soccer Association season

Capital City SC (Austin, TX)

Capital City SC are making their qualifying debut this year, and finished 8-1-1 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs South Texas Conference


Stars FC (USL League Two)
vs.
Next Level Soccer Premier (UPSL)
Spirit Field Ottawa University – Surprise, AZ
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

Stars FC (Glendale, AZ)

Stars FC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 4-4-4 in the 2026 USL League Two Southwest Division.

Next Level Soccer Premier (Gilbert, AZ)

Next Level Soccer Premier are entering qualifying for a third year in a row. Last year they got all the way to the end, getting eliminated by Denver’s Azteca FC on penalties after a 3-3 draw. Next Level finished 7-1-2 in the 2026 UPSL Spring season, and made their way to the Western Final were they lost to eventual UPSL Spring Champions Deportivo Rose City 2-1.


Bellevue Athletic FC (UPSL)
vs.
Sharktopus FC (Seattle Recreational Adult Team Soccer / USSSA)
Bellevue College Soccer Field – Bellevue, WA
Kickoff: 9 p.m. ET

Bellevue Athletic FC (Snohomish, WA)

Bellevue are making their fifth straight qualifying appearance and are also looking for their first win. Bellevue finished the 2026 UPSL Spring season 7-2-1, but fell to eventual UPSL Spring Champions Deportivo Rose City 2-0 in the UPSL National playoffs.

Kwame Appiah (left) and Jimmy Forde of Sharktopus FC celebrate after a 5-0 win over Bellevue Athletic FC in the Second Round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Sharktopus FC
Kwame Appiah (left) and Jimmy Forde of Sharktopus FC celebrate after a 5-0 win over Bellevue Athletic FC in the Second Round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Sharktopus FC

Sharktopus FC (Seattle, WA)

One of the more creatively named teams in Open Cup qualifying, Sharktopus FC is entering qualifying for the fourth time. Sharktopus FC finished 11-1-6 in the 2026 Spring & Summer SRATS seasons

This is a rematch of one of the more controversial qualifying games from last year. Bellevue initially thought they advanced with a 4-3 extra time win over Sharktopus FC. However, a protest was filed when it was discovered the match referee

 had previously played for Bellevue’s reserve team recently. A replay was ordered and Sharktopus took full advantage with a rain-soaked 5-0 win. The incident even garnered attention for ESPN.


Legends SC (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
vs. 
Iron Rose FC (The League for Clubs / USASA)
Mather Field Sports Complex; Mather, Calif.
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET

Legends SC (Sacramento, CA)

Legends SC are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 9-2-2 in the 2026 Spring SWPL/Pacific Premier League season.

Iron Rose FC (Roseville, CA)

Iron Rose FC are making their qualifying debut this year. Iron Rose FC finished 8-1-1 in the 2026 season in the League for Clubs NorCal conference and were runners up in the League for Clubs playoff Final, losing to Pensacola FC 1-0

——————————————————————-

Filed Under: 2027 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, Feature - Qualifying, Featured Post - Main, Featured Post - US Open Cup Qualifying, US Open Cup, US Open Cup Central, US Open Cup Qualifying Tagged With: 2027 US Open Cup, 2027 US Open Cup qualifying, Preview

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us on Social Media

  • Bluesky
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

U.S. Open Cup History

1935 National Challenge Cup Semifinals: After 29 days, Central Breweries win 3-game Western Final

The Western Final of the 1934/1935 National Challenge Cup featured one of Chicago’s best teams from the first 30 years of the tournament against a St. Louis team that would form their own dynasty.

  • 1995 US Open Cup: Rob Ukrop of Richmond Kickers voted TheCup.us Player of the Tournament
  • 1995 US Open Cup Final: Jeff Causey of Richmond Kickers voted TheCup.us Player of Round
  • 1995 US Open Cup Final: Richmond Kickers survive heat, beat El Paso Patriots in PKs to win title
  • 1995 US Open Cup Final Preview: El Paso Patriots hosting amateur Richmond Kickers in “El Sauna”
  • 1995 US Open Cup Semifinals: Jake Arrambide of El Paso Patriots voted TheCup.us Player of Round

Analytics powered by

Copyright © 2026 • Built by Jacob Martella Web Development