Complete U.S. Open Cup Coverage

Dave Einhorn

2026 US Open Cup Round 3: Talles Magno hat trick helps NYCFC disappoint Westchester’s record crowd

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Players from New York City FC (left) and Westchester SC battle for the ball in the Third Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Westchester SC
Players from New York City FC (left) and Westchester SC battle for the ball in the Third Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Westchester SC

New York City FC (NYCFC) of Major League Soccer defeated Westchester SC of USL League One, 5-2 on Tuesday night. A hat trick from Talles Magno and goals from Agustin Ojeda and Arnau Farnos, propelled NYCFC to victory.

Westchester were without head coach George Gjokai after he was sent off in the club’s Second Round penalty kick win over Vermont Green FC (USL-2). Westchester had two goals from open play from Daniel Burko and Kyle Evans, their first goals against an MLS team. It may not have been enough for Westchester in the match, but with a crowd of 5,145 in attendance, it was their first-ever sell out and, according to team officials, it’s a new record for the largest sporting event ever attended in Westchester County, New York.

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NYCFC fell in last year’s Third Round to eventual USL Championship winners the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, so they made sure to come out on the front foot against Westchester. It only took 14 minutes for Agustin Ojeda to get on the scoresheet. Galloping through the midfield, Ojeda laid the ball off to Seymour Reid on the right, who played it back to Ojeda for the open shot and goal. After not scoring in regulation in the second round versus Vermont Green, Westchester responded rather quickly.

Just a few minutes later, striker Daniel Burko got on the end of an inswinging corner kick. It was bundled over the line for good measure, but headed for goal nonetheless. The deadlock did not last very long as NYCFC retook the lead through a penalty conceded by captain Connor McGlynn. He went to ground in the area and managed not to make any contact with Talles Mango, who was on the ball, instead, Magno’s touch hit McGlynn’s arm and a handball was called. The penalty was scored by Magno. 

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Support TheCup.us and its coverage of the US Open Cup by purchasing a “We Want The Cup” shirt in your team’s colors. Visit THECUP.US SHOP

The goals kept coming as NYC would add a third goal from Mango assisted by Augstin Ojeda once again. Both players showed their class in the goal, Ojeda through his ability to receive and keep the ball in a tight space, and Mango made a brilliant flick to move the ball onto his left foot and shoot. Just before half time, they’d get a fourth from Arnau Farnos, assisted once again by Ojeda, who pulled a pass that went all the way across the box and found an unmarked Arnau Farnos waiting for it. His powerful, close range strike was no match for Westchester goalkeeper Andrew Hammersley making the half time score, 4 to 1 in favor of NYCFC. 

The second half was a slightly different story as NYCFC had put the match out of reach, but Westchester still had a record crowd to show up for. Talles Mango would first send NYCFC into a frenzy as he completed his hat trick with an easy headed finish from a simple cross. He was left unmarked at the back post and made sure he wouldn’t miss. Westchester would get a second goal later on in the half as McGlynn found Kyle Evans, who took an ambitious shot that managed to find the back of the net. Although clearly down and out, Westchester players and fans celebrated proudly. 

After the match, Westchester assistant head coach Paul McGlynn praised his side for coming back in the second half. “We knew that we were pretty poor in the first half, and we just said we want to come out and win the 2nd half. We didn’t win it. We tied it, but at least we put in a bit of a better performance together.” 

The match had been billed as a derby, but what did both head coaches think? NYCFC’s supporter groups filled entire sections at Memorial Park. The 914 Infantry was also well represented. Was this really the beginning of a rivalry?

“No, I saw from the moment I arrived here, everybody was excited. People at this club were all so happy that they were playing against us because we have a lot of fans in this region. It was great for them to see us play, and have the local club play against us. I hope they enjoyed themselves. But for us, getting through to the next round was the priority.” said NYCFC head coach Pascal Jenson.

“Not in the first half, but maybe in the second.” said Westchester assistant coach Paul Glynn. When asked about the sell-out crowd, he went on to talk about the major accomplishments of the team. “It’s a community globe that’s gonna grow, grow, and grow. I think it’s just going to take a little bit more work within the community just to get more people in the stands, but I think that it’s happening step by steps.” 

Westchester will turn their attention back to USL League One with their next match on the road this Saturday against Athletic Club Boise. Meanwhile, NYCFC will face Charlotte FC at home on Saturday. They will also keep their eyes on the New York Red Bulls and Pittsburgh Riverhounds as they will face the winner, potentially setting up a classic Hudson River Derby in the fourth round of the US Open Cup. 

2026 US Open Cup Round 1: Daniel Burko’s brace powers Westchester SC past NY Renegades

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Dean Burko of Westchester SC celebrates after scoring a goal against NY Renegades in the First Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Westchester SC
Dean Burko of Westchester SC celebrates after scoring a goal against NY Renegades in the First Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Westchester SC

Westchester SC of USL League One defeated the New York Renegades of the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) 2-0 Thursday night to advance to the Second Round of the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. It was a hard-fought battle for both sides, with tactics and physicality on display for about 100 fans in attendance in Mount Vernon, New York.

For Westchester, it was their second straight opening round win, after defeating FC Motown (NPSL) on the road in the First Round last year.

The first few minutes felt like a heavyweight bout as each side looked to create space and expose the other’s weakness. Westchester SC found a way through in the 34th minute through a penalty converted by Daniel Burko. A cross not properly dealt with by Renegades keeper, Jean Perez, led to a dangerous moment for Westchester. It left the defender Jeison Solano with little option but to go to ground, and his slide tackle caught Burko. After joining the club just a few months ago, this was Burko’s third appearance across all competitions and first-ever goal for Westchester.

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With the lead at home, Westchester continued to look for more opportunities. Westchester coach George Gjokai spoke about his tactics to find the NY Renegades’ weakness.

“I think we played a lot of nice soccer just behind the ball in front of them. You had to commit to get higher up the pitch and break lines, and get behind, and put them on their heels.”

In the second half, Westchester would do exactly that. Making it difficult for the Renegades’ attackers, like Sebastian Ruiz and Junior Rosero, to use their experience to affect the play without the ball. 

In the 80th minute, New York had arguably their best opportunity of the night when Angelo Quintanilla played a give-and-go down the right wing. He was able to cut inside and get his shot away, but Westchester goalkeeper Andrew Hammersley saved it. Renegades head coach and president, Boris Linares, would lament not converting opportunities like that.

“We did have our chances, and we didn’t convert. That’s what happens when you play at this level. You have to convert your chances. That’s football, you know.”

Westchester sealed their victory with a second goal in the 83rd minute. Burko scored his second of the match when a shot from substitute Johnathan Jimenez was blocked, and the rebound found its way to Burko. Jean Perez could do nothing but watch as Burko found the far right corner from close range and gave Westchester a 2-0 lead. Defenders collapsed upon realizing their Open Cup dream was coming to an end, but it was a well-fought battle between the two sides.

Daniel Burko had a stellar performance for Westchester and was thrilled to be the player who took the pressure off the rest of his team.

“A goal is always nice to release some pressure, you know, you’re up a goal, (NY Renegades) need to pressure you,” said Burko. “You don’t have to force anything. You can play with calmness and without pressure. It’s really nice for us just to have that pressure off.”

When asked about the next round of the competition, Burko relished the opportunity to advance to the next round.

“I love the cup,” he said, “I mean, the chance to play someone in a higher league to test yourself is just a great experience.”

We had a NY Renegades FC player warming up in a team issued Snuggie.Bless the Open Cup.#USOC2026

— US Open Cup News (@thecup.us) 2026-03-20T00:24:47.698Z

2026 US Open Cup Round 1: One Knoxville spoils SC Vistula Garfield’s USOC return

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Graphic by Frank Lanham

SC Vistula Garfield of the American Premier Soccer League (APSL) welcomed One Knoxville (USL League One) for the First Round of the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. One Knoxville had a shaky start but recovered to defeat Vistula Garfield, 3-1.

It was a historic match for Vistula Garfield, who made their triumphant return to the First Round proper of the cup competition in the Modern Era. Before kickoff, the Polish club honored local legendary player, coach, and journalist Wojciech Ziebowicz.

Meanwhile, One Knoxville are making their fourth appearance in the US Open Cup proper. Their best finish was last year in the Third Round. After winning the USL League One title and the Players Shield, they will look to add more silverware to their success.

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Riding the waves of emotion and home field, Vistula Garfield shocked everyone by scoring first, inside of the first minute. There was a palpable pride and exaltation from all 250 fans in attendance. There were still 89 more minutes left, but moments like that are part of the appeal of the US Open Cup. Simon Gorczowski scored the goal that will go down in the history books for Vistula. He was played through on the left wing, split two defenders, and found the bottom corner.

“I was in a flow state,” Gorczowski said, “I was just playing with energy. I was just screaming and having fun.” His goal gave Vistula the lead, and for a moment, the cupset was on.

One Knoxville would respond in the 14th minute, when William Perkins sent in a dangerous cross from the right wing. Although Kyle Linhares was the closest to the ball, he wasn’t able to quite control it the way he wanted. Still, there was enough chaos in front of the goal that Senegalese striker Babacar Diene pounced before the keeper could react. The score was 1-1, and it was game on.

One Knoxville was awarded a corner kick in the 21st minute. Real Gill, in his third appearance for Knoxville, and first as a starter, would give the Tennessee club the lead. After either side had not properly won a corner, he expertly set himself up and finished in one fluid motion from right inside the six-yard box. It was his first goal for One Knoxville, putting his side firmly in control of the match and sticking an exclamation mark on his ability as a player. 

Both goalkeepers did an excellent job of keeping their respective teams in the match. Eli Conway gave Vistula Garfield grief much of the night. Late in the first half, he found himself in space on the right wing and was able to cut inside. Goalkeeper Aldo Munoz knocked down his cross and then saved a close-range shot from Kyle Linhares.

Johnathan Burke also had work to do for One Knoxville. He saved a long-range effort from Eric Moroz late in the second half. It’s a credit to both keepers that they were able to play well on a particularly cold and windy night. 

Both teams were eager to make changes at halftime. It was clear that One Knoxville coach Ian Fuller did not want any mistakes jeopardizing their lead in the second half.

“I let know at halftime how disappointed I am. We thrive on good starts. We came out really, really flat. In fairness, they came out really well. They’re trying to win, too.”

Garfield player-coach Christopher Karcz also began retooling his squad to exploit a weakness. Both teams made substitutions at halftime, which proved important as the game’s dynamics shifted in the second half. 

One of those substitutions for One Knoxville, Mikkel Golingø, had the final say in the cup tie. He scored a gorgeous goal from just outside the area, as he swept the ball into the far right corner. He gave One Knoxville a deserved 3-1 lead in the 76th minute. It was his first goal for the club across all competitions since September of last season.

Vistula Garfield didn’t have much of an answer for Golingø and the One Knoxville substitutions. They enjoyed the match to the point that assistant coach Nick Kozdron. They asked the referees for more stoppage time so they could “enjoy this moment just a little longer.” The final score was One Knoxville 3 and SC Vistula 1.

After the match, One Knoxville coach, Ian Fuller, emphasized the high expectations he has for his championship-defending team. “ Nowhere near where we want to be, but we weren’t last year at this time, so we didn’t really hit our stride until August. We just have to be a little bit more cautious with the ball because we’re getting caught in transition. Where the stage of our club is right now, our mentality is that we want to win every match we play. I’m going to be proud of them if they give everything they have, but I want to win.” 

When asked about the next round of the Open Cup, Fuller drew from his own experiences. “We’ll take it as we see it, as it comes, but I love this competition because of that. The majority of my career, I played in the second division, and I loved playing against MLS teams and proving myself. So I love that side of the competition.”

As a player, Fuller nearly made history in 2008 when he led the Charleston Battery (USL) to the US Open Cup Final. He scored an early equalizer against D.C. United in the Final, but the MLS side would eventually lift the trophy with a 2-1 win.

Karcz was proud of his side despite the loss.

“I think we played well. I mean, we’re an amateur side. We’re playing against the real professionals. We stuck to the plan, and I thought we were executing pretty well. We were dangerous at times. We just didn’t pull through in the end.” 

The 42-year-old played every minute of the match and revealed what it meant to him, “these guys are real professionals, much, much younger than I am. Those little tiny moments in those little tight spaces where you have sharp touches make me feel like I’m 19 or 20 again, you know?” 

Next up, Vistula Garfield will return to play against New York Greek Americans in APSL play. One Knoxville continues their title defence at home against Corpus Christi in USL League One and awaits their next round opponent in the US Open Cup.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Stoppage time goals send NY Renegades past Zum Schneider, back to USOC

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NY Renegades celebrate after defeating Zum Schneider FC 4-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: NY Renegades
NY Renegades celebrate after defeating Zum Schneider FC 4-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: NY Renegades

The New York Renegades defeated Zum Schneider 4-2 on Sunday night to clinch the club’s second straight US Open Cup berth. The Renegades were heavily favored, but both sides contested well: trading goals, well-timed shots, and hard tackles throughout the 90 minutes. 

After the match, New York Renegades founder and manager Boris Linares credited his team for their hard work throughout the tournament. 

“Any team can give you a battle, and everybody comes at us hard. Everybody plays a hell of a game,” Linares said. “They didn’t come to roll over … and I expect my players to know that, but they responded.” 

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Renegades drew first blood with an excellent goal from Junior Rosero. A long ball from the halfway line bounced once in front of Rosero, who had a defender challenging him for the ball and his back to goal. Rosero used his skill, touch — and some yoga moves — to spin his defender and toe-poke the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper. 

The goal was a step in the right direction for the Renegades, but their lead wouldn’t last long.

Moments later, Tomas de Andrade Gomes was left unmarked at the back post and was able to slide in and redirect a cross into the net. The response was swift, the slide was stylish, and the equalizer signaled it was game on.

While the referee didn’t have a significant influence on the match, he did make a few important calls. Several crunching tackles and late challenges lead to yellow cards. 

The most controversial of the first half came in the 31st minute as Zum Schneider’s Jason Budhai received the ball on the right at the top of the box. He executed some swift step-overs before coming into contact with the Renegades’ Cristian Garcia. Despite the foul and goal-scoring opportunity, Garcia did not receive a yellow card, which would have been his second. The referee was consistent in calling fouls and issuing cards, but the nature of the match changed nearly instantly.

The second half mirrored the first with the same sense of battle, grit, and now, urgency with the match tied at 1-1. 

Graphic: Frank Lanham

The Renegades once again took the lead early in the half as a cross from the right was smashed home by an unmarked Samuel Caceres to make it 2-1. 

Gomes would answer after he found himself in space and saw his shot deflected. Still, a poor clearance set up a perfect volley for Gomes, who once again equalized at 2-2. Fans of Zum Schneider in attendance exploded with flags and songs in support. 

When all signs pointed to extra time, the Renegades found the breakthrough. They scored not one, but two late goals to ensure they would move on to the 2026 US Open Cup. 

The first came from Eric Turcios, who got a touch on a low cross from Garcia. Turcios had been out injured, didn’t start the match, but had the crucial touch that sealed the win. Turcios is making a name for himself in scoring dramatic late winners, as he had also scored a late winner against the NY Braveheart to send the Renegades to the UPSL National Finals.

Zum Schneider had four minutes to find some Open Cup magic. They made quick substitutions and did their best to get into an attacking position. It was clear that going for the equalizer would leave them exposed, as Sebastian Ruiz got free on the left and hit the post. 

Zum Schneider’s tired legs and broken hearts were starting to show as Ruiz once again got free in a similar area and this time did not miss the far corner. He left the goalkeeper rooted to his spot, Zum Schneider’s dreams dashed, and sent his team into pandemonium with the final score to make it 4-2.

 

2025 US Open Cup Round 2: Westchester SC uses hot start, strong defense to hold off NY Pancyprian Freedoms

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Westchester SC players celebrate after scoring a goal against NY Pancyprian Freedoms in the Second Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Westchester SC
Westchester SC players celebrate after scoring a goal against NY Pancyprian Freedoms in the Second Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Westchester SC

On a cold night in Mount Vernon, NY, fans and families of the New York Pancyprian Freedoms gathered for the Second Round match up in the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. The Pancyprian Freedoms, the three-time US Open Cup champions, had upset on their minds. They were fresh off of a victory in Round 1 against FC Cincinnati II, and sit at the top of the American Premier Soccer League, looked to pull off a major cupset. Meanwhile, fans, players, and staff celebrated Westchester SC’s first home match as a club. Westchester SC moved onto the Third Round of the US Open Cup after a famous 3-2 victory against the Freedoms.

The action started early as Westchester got their first goal in the third minute: former New York Red Bulls player Kenmar Lawrence, Westchester’s first signed player, put an excellent ball over the top of the defense from his own half. It fell right into the path of JC Obregon Jr. Obregon Jr did well riding a challenge from Westchester and slotted home with his left foot. It was a dream start for Westchester, a nightmare for New York.

Things would go from bad to worse for the Pancyprian Freedoms as they conceded an own goal in the 22nd minute. A cross from the left side was deflected poorly off of Jack Sluys, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance for a save as it sailed into the corner of the goal. Suddenly, the Freedoms were down 2-0, but Westchester wasn’t finished yet.

Daniel Bouman would add a third as a Westchester clearance fell to his feet at the top of the box, and he guided it into the top right corner. The score at half time was 3-0. 

The Pancyprian Freedoms decided to throw caution to the wind in the second half. They were given a lifeline from Westchester SC in the 53rd minute when Westchester goalkeeper Dane Jacomen caught a corner in the box, but he fell into his own player, and the ball came out. Pablo Herrera was right there to put the ball home for the Freedoms, making it 3-1. There were shouts for handball from the New York bench. Those no-calls didn’t have a huge effect on the match, but New York scored again late into stoppage time. 

This time, it was a cross from the left side of the area into James Thristino. He brought the ball down and had a lucky misskick land in an opportune place for a right-footed shot. With one minute left, the Freedoms were only a goal away from the impossible. It wasn’t meant to be, as they ran out of stoppage time. Westchester’s announced crowd of 2,026 erupted at the sound of the final whistle. It was their first-ever home win in the tournament.  

After the match, NY Pancyprian Freedoms manager Andreas Chronis praised his team for their outstanding second half.

“Our true self was in the second half … I think the boys did an amazing job,” said Chronis. “There were a couple of moments where I thought we would tie it.”

He also praised the players’ work rate, especially those who had been at their full-time jobs earlier that day.

“Seven of our starters were working before they came to the match. It takes time to get started after you’ve worked a full day, come here, and play against a professional team. That’s why we’re more of a second-half team.”

This victory is important for Westchester SC manager Dave Carton, but the road is very long.

“One game at a time. We want to deliver on our owner’s high expectations, but we might be in Pancyprian’s shoes in our next game,” said Carton. “We just have to be prepared for that. The target is to be in the Fourth Round.”

Carton also showed a lot of class in highlighting the NY Pancyprian Freedoms’ efforts throughout the match, even touting one of their players as the man of the match.

“They found another gear, and good for them. They deserve a lot of credit,” added Carton. “They are a proud club with a proud tradition in the competition. I’d give it to someone from Pancyprian Freedoms. I like Joey Holland. He’s a great player and played a good game.  

NY Pancyprian Freedoms will turn their attention to the National Amateur Cup and American Premier Soccer League. Meanwhile, Westchester will await their third-round opponents and prepare for their first home league match on April 27th in the USL Jagermeister Cup.

 

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: West Chester United edges rival VE to book 3rd straight trip to USOC

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West Chester United celebrates after defeating Vereinigung Erzgebirge 2-1 to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: West Chester United
West Chester United celebrates after defeating Vereinigung Erzgebirge 2-1 to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: West Chester United

West Chester United SC and Vereinigung Erzgebirge (VE) are the sibling rivals of eastern Pennsylvanian soccer. Having just played each other six days prior in the Robert M. O’Neil Amateur Cup group stage, the two teams were ready to lock horns again in the Fourth Round of the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying tournament.

The all-important “Win & You’re In” round meant a lot to both sides. West Chester United SC was looking to qualify for the third year in a row and the sixth time as a club. Meanwhile, VE was looking to build on last year’s progress as the club competed in the Open Cup proper for the first time since 2002, but lost to the Charlotte Independence of the USL League One (Div. 3 pro).

Ultimately, the spoils belonged to West Chester United on Saturday night on their home field at Kildare’s Turf Field. They defeated a 10-man VE squad 2-1 to advance to the First Round of the 2025 US Open Cup.

https://twitter.com/phlsoccernow/status/1857958676809515326

The temperature boiled over early in the first half. Contact between VE player Christopher Baker and a West Chester defender caused tensions as Baker looked for a penalty. It was clear this game would be hard fought for both teams. In the 33rd minute, VE was forced to make a substitution for midfielder Alex Haji, who went down in pain after a serious challenge. In his absence VE’s game plan had to change.

West Chester would take the lead in the 38th minute after a contentious penalty. Kenneth Roby converted, and with the first blood drawn, the match got more intense.

VE pushed for a response over the next few minutes, hoping to level the match. Their hearts would break as Joshua Luchini intercepted a poor back pass to Jimi Leder near the halfway line. He ran down the pitch like a jewelry bandit with last night’s lotto winnings. VE goalkeeper Stephen Paul, did his best to put off Luchini, but there wasn’t much he could do as Luchini gave West Chester a 2-0 lead right before at halftime. 

West Chester was 45 minutes away from glory, and VE had 45 minutes to rewrite the story thus far. VE would strike in the 56th minute. A corner kick to the far post was headed toward the goal but appeared to come off both the post and the goalkeeper. Derek Antonini bundled it home in the end. With more than a half-hour left to play, the fans in attendance seemed to be on their way to being treated to a dramatic finish.

VE’s chances of completing the comeback took a significant blow when they went down to 10 men in the 73rd minute. In a match that featured so many personalities that knew each other so well, it was unsurprising that there was a lot of talk going back and forth between players of both sides and the referee to both sets of players. Kevin Smolyn was sent off for dissent against the center referee, and a challenging task became even more difficult for VE.

In the last 15 minutes, it was all about making the most of every opportunity on the ball while working tirelessly to ensure their deficit was only one goal. In the best defensive play of the match, VE had a triple save between the goalkeeper and the defenders. Considering the context of the match and what winning would mean, it was clear players wanted to leave it all out on the pitch.

In the end, West Chester was victorious. They move on to the first round of the US Open Cup which will take place next spring. Both managers had different perspectives. West Chester’s Blaise Santangelo focused on his team’s performance but suggested they could close out games and possess the ball better before round one.

“We just trained to play faster,” said Santangelo. “You know, if you get linked up with them , they are smart. They know how to grind on you, and they are good at countering. We just wanted to play on their side of the field with possession. I think we did that for parts of the game, but not all of it.”

Meanwhile, VE’s head coach Rob Oldfield lamented the injury substituion as well as the mistakes his club made during the match.

“The Haji sub really limited us. You never want to have to make a sub that early. He’s been playing so well. I thought the back line was pretty good. Jimi made one mistake. If you take away that and the PK, it wasn’t so bad.”

 

 

2024 US Open Cup Round 1: Charlotte Independence spoil the Open Cup return of Vereinigung Erzgebirge

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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

Vereinigung Erzgebirge welcomed Charlotte Independence to Carin University in Langhorne, Pa. on Thursday night. The rain and wind stayed away, and cool temperatures gave the perfect playing conditions for Open Cup soccer. The match was Vereinigung Erzgebirge’s first time playing in the first round in 22 years (though they did qualify for the 2020 tournament, which was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic). In one of the most important matches in V.E.’s long history, which dates back to 1969, over 400 people showed up to support the club and its program.

However, despite being a scoreless game well into the second half, the Independence scored a pair of late goals to prevail, 2-0 and advance to the Second Round. It was a positive start for a Charlotte club that came into the game having been eliminated in five of their last six Open Cup games.

Photos: https://twitter.com/phlsoccernow/status/1770977008777847273

Vereinigung Erzgebirge’s best chance of the night came early in 5th minute of play. A corner kick fell to Chris Baker, who directed it onto the crossbar. It inspired the team as Baker immediately turned to the crowd to wave for more noise and support. Big chances would be few and far between for Vereinigung Erzgebirge. Meanwhile, their counterparts, Charlotte Independence, had a relentless attack for much of the night.

In the 17th minute, Tresor Mbuyu received the ball in midfield and charged at goal. He fired a shot from outside the area that rose above the crossbar. It was a warning for Vereinigung Erzgebirge: no matter how well they created and played, Charlotte could turn the match instantly.

The game intensified just before halftime as Vereinigung Erzgebirge striker Jaylon Weatherspoon went to meet a cross with his head but was clattered into by the on-rushing Charlotte goalkeeper Austin Pack. Moments later, Charlotte’s Omar Ciss appeared to body-check Vereinigung Erzgebirge’s former pro Antoine Hoppenot after the whistle had gone. This sudden coming together of players playing the ball and defending their teammates boiled into a shouting match, resulting in yellow cards for each side. Both teams went into halftime without any severe consequences.

Players from the Charlotte Independence (blue) and Vereinigung Erzgebirge express frustrations after a foul in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Justin Nunez
Players from the Charlotte Independence (blue) and Vereinigung Erzgebirge express frustrations after a foul in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Justin Nunez

The halftime score was 0-0, as this would be a game of tactics, creation, and who would blink first. Given the gulf in resources, funding, and experience between the two teams, it was incredible that the match had remained this close.

In the second half, Vereinigung Erzgebirge did their best to go for the win. However, as the match wore on, it was clear that Charlotte was the more fit of the two sides. In the 72nd minute, Kharlton Belmar received a pass at the top of the 18-yard box, and laid it off for Omar Ciss. He fired a low shot past Vereinigung Erzgebirge goalkeeper Steve Paul for the game’s first goal and a well-deserved Charlotte lead. For Belmar, it was his first Open Cup assist since 2018 when he was a member of Sporting Kansas City.

Vereinigung Erzgebirge would go for it all shortly afterward. They made three attacking-minded substitutions and went to three at the back as they chased a goal. It wouldn’t pan out for them, as Charlotte took advantage and sealed the win in the 86th minute. This time, Omar Ciss set up the assist as he sent in a cross, which Kharlton Belmar guided perfectly into the net. It was Belmar’s fourth career Open Cup goal for his fourth different professional club (Portland Timbers 2, Sporting Kansas City, Nashville SC). 

The final score at full-time was 2-0 in favor of the visitors. After the match, head coach Mike Jefferies praised Vereinigung Erzgebirge for its professionalism and good nature.

“They’ve been fantastic,” Jeffries said, “I think they are a very proud club, and you can see that in how they handle themselves. They had a strong group today, and you can see that it’s a club the community is behind.”

Jeffries, who now has 13 career US Open Cup coaching wins (seven of them with Charlotte) was also pleased with the goal and the assist from Omar Ciss.

“This is his third year playing with us. We’re really pushing him to be more of a final third presence, and he showed up tonight.”

Vereinigung Erzgebirge head coach Rob Oldfield was sullen, but proud of his squad.

“We had them zero-zero at half,” said Oldfield. “We can’t ask for much better than that. It would have been nice if the shot that hit the crossbar had gone in, but nobody is kicking themselves. It was a well-played game by both sides.”

The dream for Vereinigung Erzgebirge may have ended, but they can look back on a historic night for their team, youth programs, and history. Meanwhile, Charlotte will focus on their Round 2 opponent and their return to league play.

2024 US Open Cup Round 1: New York Red Bulls II cruise to victory over Hudson Valley Hammers

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New York Red Bulls II players celebrate after scoring a goal against the Hudson Valley Hammers in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: New York Red Bulls iI
New York Red Bulls II players celebrate after scoring a goal against the Hudson Valley Hammers in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: New York Red Bulls iI

New York Red Bulls II of MLS NEXT Pro cruised to a 5-1 victory over the Hudson Valley Hammers (USL-2) on a cold, windy night in Montclair, N.J. to advance to Round 2 of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup on Wednesday.

The frigid conditions did not do any favors for either team. In the opening minutes, New York Red Bulls II goalkeeper Aiden Stokes fell down unimpeded, and Hudson Valley had an early chip from midfield go wide with the swirling wind. There was further chaos in the 12th minute as a dangerous pass from Hudson Valley was intercepted by NYRBII striker Mohammed Sofo. Sofo was immediately tackled by Hudson Valley’s Dylan Evande, but as he was the last defender bringing down a striker, he was shown a red card. A steep hill became a vertical climb for Hudson Valley as they were reduced to 10 men.

It would take just five minutes for the Red Bulls II to take advantage. Sofo ran onto a diagonal pass into the Hudson Valley penalty area and squared a low cross for Dylan Sullivan to give the home side a 1-0 advantage. Sofo was a menace to Hudson Valley much of the night and his hard work paid off when he scored the second goal of the game in the 43rd minute. Ibrahim Kasule’s shot from just outside the box was parried right into the path of Sofo, who was quickest to react and smashed it home. Red Bulls II may have felt a little warmer up 2-0 at the halftime break.

Red Bulls II added to its lead in the second half with goals from Antigua and Barbuda youth international Aiden Jarvis in the 63rd minute, Malick Dembele in the 83rd minute, and Kasule rounded out the scoring in second-half stoppage time. The Hammers fought bravely given their situation. They would have their moment of Open Cup magic in the 79th minute, when Israel Neto received a bouncing pass inside the Red Bull 2 penalty area, took a touch over goalkeeper Aiden Stokes, and then finished the shot with an audacious bicycle kick into the empty Red Bull 2 net. It was the first US Open Cup goal in Hudson Valley Hammers history and it will be tough to beat. Although it was not enough to inspire a Cupset, it is surely something the team can take away from this year’s tournament.

Another source of immense pride for both teams was goalkeepers Aiden Stokes and Steven Ortiz. Each parried, punched, and powered through the conditions to keep their respective sides in the match. Although the score line may seem ugly, Ortiz faced 14 shots on target from Red Bulls II and put in an excellent shift for his short-handed team. The same can be said of Stokes, who may have conceded the late goal to Neto but still commanded his area well and wasn’t afraid of what must have been a very heavy, and wet soccer ball.

The frigid conditions did not deter the supporter clubs of Red Bull Arena’s Southward (Empire Supporters Club, Viking Army, and Torcida 96), who sang loudly and proudly through the 90 minutes in support of their club’s future stars. They also voiced their disapproval of recent US Open Cup decisions by Major League Soccer in this year’s tournament.

Despite the politics, this match had friendly undertones, as the Hudson Valley Hammers were founded with the help of former Red Bulls academy product, and Hudson Valley native, Tyler Adams. As soon as the match got underway, amicable relationships were put on pause as both clubs fought for the right to advance.

2024 US Open Cup Qualifying Final Round: Vereinigung Erzgebirge wins PK shootout, earns first USOC berth since 2002

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Photo: Vereinigung Erzgebirge


Vereinigung Erzgebirge (VE) qualified for the 2024 U.S. Open Cup after their win over New Jersey Alliance on Sunday, 0-0 (4:2 on penalty kicks). It will be VE’s first time participating in the tournament in more than two decades (though it did qualify for the cancelled 2020 tournament). It was one of the stranger games in the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying rounds: an initial yellow card was changed to red, extra time was shortened, and two teams who usually have no trouble scoring held each other goalless. In the end, penalty kicks decided who moved on. VE edged out New Jersey Alliance after the Alliance missed two penalties. It will be the first time Vereinigung Erzgebirge has featured in the Open Cup since 2002.

This fixture was always going to be difficult for both teams. Vereinigung Erzgebirge is used to grinding out wins and battling an opponent all 90 minutes. New Jersey is a well-disciplined and tactical team that wants to play their way. Unsurprisingly, the game started with lots of shuffling for position and feeling out the opponent. The Alliance had the better opportunities, even without their star striker, Isimohi Bello, who had four goals in the last round against Philadelphia Ukrainian Americans. New Jersey Alliance could not capitalize on their opportunities, as they were caught by the offside flag on a few occasions and stopped by Vereinigung Erzgebirge goalkeeper Steve Paul.

The second half saw immediate substitutes from both teams as the action heated up. Bello would sub in for New Jersey with the hope of giving them the lead. While his appearance did offer more upfront for the Alliance, it was clear that VE was growing into the game. In particular, a shot from a corner missed everyone in the box but managed to hit the far post itself. A well-worked ball from the left side was set up perfectly but was quickly flashed over the bar. As the seconds ticked away, extra time looked necessary. Neither team could break the deadlock, and the crowd was treated to more soccer.

It was in extra time that every player and coach realized it was now do-or-die. Heads would go down after every miss, and teammates and coaches alike were vocal after the numerous fouls called. One, in particular, was a crunching tackle from Vereinigung Erzgebirge captain Kevin Smolyn. The sound of cleats clashing with pads so suddenly grasped everyone’s attention. The referee was in a good spot to make a call, a difficult one, and chose to show yellow. Moments later, he conferred with his assistants, and the card was changed to red. The Vereinigung Erzgebirge bench was furious with the decision as it appeared the change was made without formal evidence. The officiating crew stood by one another and were united in the decision being a red card. That brought Vereinigung Erzgebirge down to 10 men with the second half of extra time to play.

This brought us to the next twist in the tale. The United States Soccer Federation and the match commissioner shortened the second period of extra time to ten minutes due to the field’s lack of light. Although the match kicked off at 2 p.m., it was now close to 4:30. The sun was due to set at 4:41. This presented a slight advantage to Vereinigung Erzgebirge as they only needed to keep New Jersey Alliance at bay for 10 minutes before going to penalties.

They would do exactly that. During the short break in play, both sets of players seemed exhausted. Penalty takers were selected, as was the goal and order for shooting. The final act of the U.S. Open Cup qualifier had a new player – the home crowd. More than 100 people wrapped in jackets and blankets were now outside cheering for Vereinigung Erzgebirge. New Jersey were able to convert their first penalty calmly, but the eruption after every VE spot kick was incredible. New Jersey would unfortunately miss two penalties, leaving the final score Vereinigung Erzgebirge 4 and New Jersey Alliance 2. Upon the final penalty, VE players celebrated their accomplishments on the field with friends, family, and the Under-15 side. A moment that showed the pride of their program since 2002.

After the match, New Jersey Alliance coach Matthew Farrell felt his team had a great overall effort but didn’t assert their style of play as the match went on.

“I think it’s just a little bit of a rush where you’re not getting the necessary breaks, and then you try and resort to a long ball style of play, which isn’t what we’re used to,” said Farrell.

His counterpart, coach Rob Oldfield of Vereinigung Erzgebirge, quickly highlighted how home-field advantage played a role in the victory.

“What a great crowd,” said Oldfield. “Amateur soccer should be like this.”

As for Oldfield, he was a member of the 2002 squad that last played in the US Open Cup for Vereinigung Erzgebirge. The history of the moment was not lost on him.

“I’ve been basically chasing this my whole life to get the team back in it.” Several people congratulated him, even after the sun had officially set.

Vereinigung Erzgebirge are the victors and seek to make their mark on the US Open Cup after it has eluded them for so long. The party in their clubhouse was historic, and, in a sign of good faith, New Jersey Alliance players were invited as honored guests. Truly, the magic of the Cup was alive and well.

2023 US Open Cup Round 1: Manhattan SC completes comeback with 2-1 extra time win over FC Motown

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Players from Manhattan SC celebrate after scoring a goal against FC Motown in the First Round of the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Joe Bolella @sonofapitchmedia
Players from Manhattan SC celebrate after scoring a goal against FC Motown in the First Round of the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Joe Bolella @sonofapitchmedia

UPDATE: FC Motown file and lose protest over field dimensions of Round One match, Manhattan advances to play Flower City Union

Manhattan SC won their opening game in the 2023 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup after beating FC Motown in extra time at Marillac Field in the Bronx on Wednesday night.

After falling behind early, a pair of teenagers led the way. Bibi Karamoko equalized in the second half for Manhattan and then assisted on William Lulka’s game-winner in the 106th minute to give the USL League Two side their first-ever Open Cup win. 

Manhattan advance to take on Flower City Union of NISA in the Second Round on April 4.

In the first half, both teams traded shots on goal and fouls as they felt each other out. Manhattan SC would have a few chances as the match opened up. The best of which came in the 8th minute as a well timed low cross missed everyone’s boots in the box. Shortly after, it was FC Motown who would jump out to an early lead in the 26th minute. Franco Catania finished a pass from Samunel Nii Ashitey. There was not much the Manhattan SC goalkeeper could do as Catania’s shot found the back of the net. Manhattan SC would later be denied a penalty despite numerous claims from the players. The first half would end with FC Motown in the lead, 1-0.



Manhattan SC pushed for an equalizer in the second half, and got their reward in the 54th minute. Hakim Karamoto came to his side’s rescue as his goal tied the game at 1-1. It was all about finding a winner from then on. Manhattan SC had the best chance to grab a winner later in the half. FC Motown keeper David Greczek kept his side in the match with a diving save from a header at close range. At the end of regulation, the sides could not be separated and we headed to extra time.

FC Motown had a much larger bench than Manhattan SC. They made several changes as the match went on and looked to have the fresher legs. They dominated the first period of extra time, but couldn’t come up with a goal to show for it. Their best opportunity was a header in the 101st minute. In the second half of extra time, Manhattan SC went all in. A run from William Lulka ended with the ball in the back of the net and a 2-1 lead for his side in the 106st minute. They would absorb the pressure from Motown to see out the match and secure their place in the next round.

FC Motown coach Gideon Baah had a sober tone after the match. “Unfortunately we couldn’t finish a lot of our chances. Most of the half chances we could have buried. But for me I see it in this way; perspective wise, these things happen.”


His counter part, Ray Selvadurai, was very proud of his squad. ““It’s a big honor and a big step. Like I mentioned before about our club, we’re a youth club that took a step into pre-professional. To play against a professional team in the next round is a great honor and I think my guys showed tonight that they could compete.”

Manhattan SC will face Flower City Union in the next round on April 4th. 

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