2020 US Open Cup Qualifying

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Win & You’re In: Sesay’s hat trick clinches NTX Rayados 9th straight berth

November 27, 2019 by Adam Uthe

Graphic by Harrison Huntley | @hhuntley17

Mohamed “James” Sesay’s hat trick was the difference as NTX Rayados defeated Celtic Cowboys Premier to qualify for their ninth consecutive Lamar Hunt US Open Cup; a Modern Era (1995-Present) record for an Open Division Local side.

Having scored six goals coming into Saturday night’s showdown, Sesay’s total number of goals scored in qualifying stands at nine, the top goalscoring total of this year’s Open Division Local qualifying tournament.

You’d be hard pressed to find two amateur sides in Texas more worthy of an Open Cup appearance. NTX Rayados’ history of qualifying for the Open Cup is well-documented by now, but this wasn’t the first time these two sides have met. Celtic’s first-ever game in an Open Cup qualifying tournament was at Premier Park in 2016 with NTX gave them a rude welcome to the competition, thumping them 7-0 in front of their home fans. The two met the following year in Austin, but it was the same result: Rayados cruised to a 4-1 win. Both of those games were decidedly less competitive than Saturday’s game at Premier Park, located in the Dallas suburb of Balch Springs.

Mohamed "James" Sesay (left) and player/coach Tito Salas of NTX Rayados do a celebration dance after Sesay scored his third goal against Celtic Cowboys Premier in a 2020 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: NTX Rayados — Mohamed “James” Sesay (left) and player/coach Tito Salas of NTX Rayados do a celebration dance after Sesay scored his third goal against Celtic Cowboys Premier in a 2020 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: Mirco Daniel Mbega Ndoumou | NTX Rayados

Both teams were high on confidence, each having won their Round 2 qualifying game comfortably, but it was NTX Rayados who came out and controlled the game in the first 15 minutes. Right from the start, Sesay ran over, around, and through Celtic’s backline but struggled to test Celtic goalkeeper Muhammed Sule early and the visitors struggled to counter effectively.

But as the first half wore on, Celtic’s target forward Christopher Wright began to slip in behind Rayados’ defense as well and eventually the chances evened out for both sides. Perhaps in an effort to stay warm, both goalkeepers made questionable decisions to come out of their respective boxes at different points, but neither was ultimately punished and halftime came with no goals tallied.

It didn’t take long for things to heat up in the second half. Five minutes out of the break, Rayados had already earned two corners, and the second coming after Sesay hit the crossbar from point blank range. Celtic absorbed the pressure well and moments later looked to have earned a chance in on goal, but the whistle for a foul went against Wright.

It would prove costly as Sesay was through on goal just minutes later and opened the scoring to put the home side up 1-0 in the 55th minute.

Celtic created a couple chances in response but nothing dangerous and Sesay made them pay in the 69th minute with his second; a scintillating run through multiple defenders before splitting Sule’s legs.

Eight minutes later, he got a fortuitous bounce on the edge of the box and made the most of it on the volley to complete his hat trick.

Sesay – whose teammates have taken to calling him “Eto’o”, after retired Cameroon striker Samuel Eto’o – has featured for Rayados in previous campaigns, but never as such a focal point of the offense. Still, he’s earned the comparison to the former Barcelona forward and his comfort with the role he’s been asked to play comes through clear on the night.

“I’m happy because this is a normal thing for me: scoring goals.”, said Sesay, who was grinning from ear to ear after the game.

But the success in qualification hasn’t gone to his head and he was quick to heap praise on his team, especially their mental fortitude coming out of halftime at a stalemate despite having created plenty of chances.

Sesay may be having a moment, but his team captain (and player-coach) Tito Salas, was unusually even keeled after the match. Perhaps that’s because Salas has been more or less in charge of NTX Rayados during the entirety of their current nine year run.

“This is really what we were shooting for: being back in the actual Cup.”, Salas said afterwards.

Rayados also won their league title a week ago on the same field and Salas – speaking like a veteran of qualifying for the tournament – says the main thing he told his players was to go home and enjoy the holidays and come prepared for the tournament in the spring. For him – and the club – that’s what counts more than anything.

#USOC2020 ESSENTIALS

Newtown Pride FC win first Amateur Cup, qualify for 2020 US Open Cup
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Schedule / Results
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1 Game-By-Game Review
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2 Game-By-Game Review
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Win & You’re In Weekend Game-By-Game Review
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Goalscoring Leaders

In our 18th year of covering the US Open Cup, support TheCup.us by joining our Patreon team!

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Win & You’re In: Louisiana Krewe edge Livonia City with single PK

November 26, 2019 by David Hebestreit

In a “Win & You’re In” match for the 2020 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup in Lafayette, La., Louisiana Krewe FC topped visitors Livonia City FC, 1-0, to qualify for the tournament for the first time. A 68th minute penalty kick, converted by Matheus Fulini Barrozo, proved enough to propel Krewe FC into the Open Cup proper this spring.

With the win, the Krewe become just the second Open Division Local team from the state of Louisiana to qualify for the US Open Cup in the Modern Era (1995-present).

The home team had a small but energetic fanbase, along with team mascot Pele the Pelican, at St. Thomas More Catholic High School and opened the game with a solid nine minutes of possession and pressure, forcing City FC to sit in and defend. City FC soon found their legs, though, and calmed down and got their first clear chance in the 9th minute. After finishing a sharp move, Ardit Dushkaj found the back corner of the net from a tight angle in the penalty area, but the play was deemed offside.

Louisiana Krewe pose for a team photo before their 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against Livonia City FC. Photo: David Hebestreit | Detroit Soccer Central

Over the next 25 minutes the teams traded blows, each having some half-chances, but neither squad finding a method for unlocking the opponent’s defense. Krewe FC’s Henrique Pimpao, who entered the game with a team-leading five goals, and Ricardo Caliman were particularly effective in combining and posing problems for the City backline throughout the final two-thirds of the match. City FC center back Vince Bruno battled resolutely all night long, thwarting the two strikers’ efforts. And City goalkeeper Adam Moustafa made several key stops on driven crosses or attempts at goal, either parrying or punching them clear of danger.

In first half stoppage time, Matheus Fulini Barrozo smashed a direct free kick from about 32 yards out that rang solidly off the far post, a drive that no keeper would have gotten to, the post preserving the first half draw for City FC and further frustrating Krewe FC.

In the second half, Barrozo had several other free kick opportunities that were saved or went just wide or high. City FC’s Ardit Dushkaj, who was a known quantity before the match, was unable to get off the mark in the run of play as he had in the first two qualifying rounds, but grazed the crossbar on a direct free kick in the 57th minute. Dushkaj did not receive the space or service that he had enjoyed in the previous two outings with City FC.

Krewe FC head coach Joan Oliva, a former FC Barcelona Academy coach, said before the match that, “ are very similar in the way we play, and we know about their striker, and will do what we need to keep him quiet.” Krewe FC were mindful of Dushkaj all night long, denying him the space and time on the ball he needed to be effective.

Most of the second half went to Krewe FC, who made a change in their system that allowed more attacking numbers to get forward and caused even more problems for City FC defenders. The game went back and forth for the first 15 minutes of the half, then Louisiana started to take control and string together chances, as Dril Moussoki Mboungou and Matheus Fulini Barrozo controlled tempo and created chances in the midfield and top third. At the same time, the increased numbers forward for Krewe left them susceptible to counter attacks, which Livonia found success with despite rarely challenging the keeper.

It was the 68th minute penalty that was the ultimate difference in the evenly-contested match between the two young programs. The foul, occurring along the top of the penalty area, and with the attacking player facing away from the goal, was a downer for City, because they had traveled nearly 1,200 miles for the single match (they were defeated on PKs in this same round last year).

Livonia City FC club president Craig Beebe commented after the match that “We didn’t take our chances and we will have to live with that until next year. This is going to be motivation for us that will drive the club to new heights next year.”

Both squads are enjoying success in their infancies as clubs with City competing in their fourth year, and Krewe FC in their first. However, it’s Krewe that punched its ticket to the US Open Cup proper in the spring of 2020.

“Livonia was a good team, they did a really good things on defense, but I think our adjustments at the half, playing with three up top and how our players took the initiative and were brave, was crucial and produced more chances on goal,” said Oliva. “I am happy for the Krewe players and staff, the volunteers, and this community. We are enjoying our journey!”

#USOC2020 ESSENTIALS

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2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Win & You’re In: Nashville United flattens Soda City in the rain

November 25, 2019 by Wade Brazell

2020 US Open Cup qualifying nashville united — Graphic by Harrison Huntley | @hhuntley17

On a rainy night in the capital city of Columbia, S.C., Nashville United came into town and stunned hosts, Soda City FC Sorinex, by a score of 4-0 to become the first Tennessee-based Open Division Local team to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup in the tournament’s Modern Era (1995-present).

Nashville was led by former professional Georgi Hristov and Logan Paynter who each scored two goals, one in each half.

With the win, Nashville qualifies for the 2020 US Open Cup in just their second attempt. The tournament is scheduled to begin in the spring. The format and draw for the 107th edition of the tournament will be held in the coming months.

From the opening whistle, Nashville United was on the front foot and opened the scoring in the 5th minute when Danny Dunleavy sent in a long cross to the foot of Hristov, who recently finished his pro career as the all-time leading goalscorer for the Tampa Bay Rowdies (USL Championship). The Bulgarian then slotted it past the Soda City keeper to make it 1-0.

Players from Nashville United pose for a team photo before their 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against Soda City FC Sorinex. Photo: Nashville United

After a little bit of back-and-forth, Nashville found the goal again from the foot of Paynter. Lipscomb University’s all-time leading goalscorer nailed a strike into the back of the net to make it 2-0 in the 15th minute.

Soda City wouldn’t get their first quality chance until the 29th minute when Seth Hansen sent a nice through ball to Davis Bryan who sent the ball just wide of the goal.

In the 36^th minute, Soda City had a case for a penalty kick after the Nashville goalkeeper came off of his line to challenge Bryan as he fell down hard around the six-yard box trying to get a shot off. That proved to be an emotional spark that Soda City needed and continued their pressure on the Nashville goal.

However, they got too emotional as Paul Grandacarpio and Nestor Jaramillo were both booked for rough challenges in the 38th and 42nd minutes, respectively.

Once the second half started, Soda City kept up the pressure from the first half as Dean Smith had a great shot on goal in the opening moments, but it was saved.

In the 51st minute, United’s Paynter whipped in a lobbed ball that found the head of Hristov who put it just high of the net. Nashville would continue their press with pretty combination play as Paynter doinked one off the post in the 63rd minute but would get another chance a minute later to redeem himself. On the second chance, he did not disappoint.

Paynter’s shot found the back of the net to put his side up 3-0 on the road. Just as the game was drawing to a close and the pitch continued to get bogged down with rain, Hristov found the net yet again in the 88th minute to extend the Nashville lead to 4-0 and put Soda City out of their misery and out of the tournament for the second straight year in Round 3.

As previously mentioned, Nashville became the first Open Division Local team from the Volunteer State to qualify, but three other Open Division National teams have qualified. The now-defunct Memphis Express from the Premier Development League (now USL League Two) were the first to participate in 2002, followed by Chattanooga FC (NPSL) who qualified six times (2011, 2013-17) and most recently, Inter Nashville FC (NPSL) in 2018.

#USOC2020 ESSENTIALS

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2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Win & You’re In: Chula Vista FC back in USOC after 3rd straight PK win

November 25, 2019 by Mathias Medel

Chula Vista FC defeated LA Monsters 5-4 in penalty kicks after 110 minutes of game time to earn an official spot in the 2020 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. It is now the third consecutive round that Chula Vista emerges victorious in a shootout.

As a result, Chula Vista FC becomes the first team since the current Open Division Local qualifying tournament was launched in 2015 to qualify for the US Open Cup with three consecutive penalty kick shootout wins. It also marks the third time the club has qualified for the tournament (2015, 2017), which is scheduled to kick off next Spring.

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

CVFC, hosting their third straight qualifier at Terra Nova Park in Chula Vista, Calif. (San Diego area), went into the half with a one-goal lead on a 34th minute free kick from Abraham Rodriguez who curled his shot over the wall, and into the back of the net.

After each team’s goalkeeper made a big save in the opening minutes of the second half, Chula Vista nearly doubled their lead in the 54th minute when Andy Salguero hit the crossbar on a shot from outside the penalty area. Two minutes later, the Monsters equalized off of a 1-v-1 opportunity which was successfully finished by forward Edward Robles Delgado.

After the equalizer, the Monsters took control, forcing Chula Vista goalkeeper Cristian Garcia to make another impressive save in the 66th minute. About five minutes later, Salguero, was tripped up in the penalty area and earned a PK. Salguero, who plays his college ball at El Camino College (Torrence, Calif.), converted from the spot to give the Monsters the lead.

With time quickly expiring, Chula Vista’s Mario Rubio was able to tie the game for the home side with about nine minutes left in the game.

The score remained tied as the match headed to extra time, however, due to an unusual decision, the two teams would not play the full 30 minutes (Two 15-minute periods). The head referee declared that the extra time periods would be shortened to 10 minutes each due to lack of sunlight in the area.

With about three minutes remaining in the abbreviated second period of overtime, Chula Vista’s Luis Espinoza-Vasquez received a golden opportunity to give the home team the lead. After CVFC was awarded a penalty kick, Espinoza-Vasquez rang his 12-yard kick off the right post to keep the game knotted at 2-2.

In the penalty kick shootout, Chula Vista converted their first five attempts, leaving it up to the Monsters’ Salvador Alvarez to push the tiebreaker into a sixth round. While Chula Vista’s goalkeeper Cristian Garcia was unable to replicate the four penalty saves he had in the second round, he bested Alvarez, ultimately giving Chula Vista the victory on the day.

“With the same ferocity we have had for these past other games, we have to keep riding the wave and enter upcoming games with our heads held high,” CVFC assistant coach Humberto Rico said. “That’s key for us, and this was going to get us further in the competition.”

Chula Vista will now have a chance to add to their Open Cup resume. In their first appearance in the tournament in 2015, they defeated PDL (now USL League Two) power FC Tucson on the road, before a dominant 3-0 win over USL (Div. 2 pro) side Arizona United SC, a club now known as Phoenix Rising FC. They added another win over the Albion SC Pros (NPSL) in their 2017 opener, before falling to the UPSL’s Los Angeles Wolves FC.

With the win, Chula Vista FC, who compete in the SoCal Premier League, is the lone representative from US Club Soccer. They are the first US Club Soccer team to qualify for the US Open Cup since 2016 (San Francisco City FC).

#USOC2020 ESSENTIALS

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2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3 preview: It’s now Win & You’re In weekend

November 23, 2019 by TheCup.us Staff

Graphic by Daniel Crooke | Twitter @crooke86

The Third Round of the Open Division Local Qualifying Tournament for the 2020 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup kicks off this weekend with 12 games. Saturday, Nov. 23 has seven games on the schedule, followed by five more on Sunday.

However, the day before the first batch of games were set to take place, the United States Soccer Federation announced that this would be the final round of the competition. To put it simply, it’s “Win & You’re In” weekend.

According to the USSF’s announcement:

The fourth qualifying round, which was conditionally scheduled for the weekend of Dec. 21-22, has been removed from the competition calendar. The U.S. Open Cup Committee made this decision today after reviewing the number of professional teams expected to be eligible for the 2020 tournament and projecting the berths available for Open Division clubs.

The 12 winners from this weekend will join the 2019 USASA Amatuer Cup champion Newtown Pride FC in the 2020 US Open Cup. The “tournament proper”, as many refer to it as.

Stay tuned to TheCup.us Twitter account (@USOpenCup) for updates from every game all weekend long.

#USOC2020 ESSENTIALS

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Schedule / Results
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1 Game-By-Game Review
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2 Game-By-Game Review
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Goalscoring Leaders

In our 18th year of covering the US Open Cup, support TheCup.us by joining our Patreon team!

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23

A player from Chula Vista FC avoids a tackle from an Academica SC defender in their 2020 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: Chula Vista FC

L.A. Monsters FC
(USCS / SoCal Premier League)
AT
Chula Vista FC
(USCS / SoCal Premier League)
Terra Nova Park – Chula Vista, CA
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

A pair of SoCal Premier League rivals will square off in the opening match of this weekend’s qualifying action as Chula Vista FC hosts the Los Angeles Monsters FC. The winner will be the first of two Open Division Local teams to qualify from Southern California.

The newly-renamed L.A. Monsters FC (previously South Bay Monsters FC, San Pedro Monsters FC), cruised to a 4-1 win over SC Trojans FC in their Second Round match to reach Round 3 for the second time in three years. They began their journey with a 4-0 win over Valley United SC. They are attempting to qualify for the US Open Cup for the first time in the club’s fourth attempt.

Chula Vista FC, who has qualified for the US Open Cup on two previous occasions (2015, 2017), and even has a pro team upset on their resume. However, they almost didn’t reach the Third Round, needing a dramatic penalty kick shootout win over Academica SC. They overcame a two-goal deficit in the final 11 minutes of regulation and then defeated Academica, 2-1 in the shootout. It’s an extremely rare scoreline for a shootout. Chula Vista players missed three attempts, while goalkeeper Cristian García saved four Academica kicks. To put it in perspective, there have been 127 penalty kick shootouts in the Modern Era of the US Open Cup (1995-present), and while this game is not part of the tournament proper, there has never been a goalkeeper that has made four saves in a single shootout.

The Miami United Under-23s huddle up before their 2020 US Open Cup qualifying match against Atletico Miami CF. Photo: Miami United FC

Hurricane FC
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Miami United FC Under-23s
(USASA / UPSL)
Kendall Soccer Park – Miami, FL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

A pair of South Florida teams from the UPSL will battle for a spot in the 2020 US Open Cup.

After a blowout win over Atletico Miami CF in Round 1, Miami United FC Under-23s needed a late goal to eliminate last year’s Cinderella story, the Florida Soccer Soldiers. United’s senior squad has punched their ticket to the US Open Cup three times (2015, 2017, 2018), but the Under-23s are seeking their first trip to the tournament proper.

Hurricane FC went the opposite route to Round 3. They took out International Soccer Association in a lengthy penalty kick shootout in Round 1, followed by a one-sided road win over the Orlando FC Wolves. This is the first time that Hurricane FC had advanced in back-to-back matches in three previous US Open Cup qualifying campaigns.

Manny Medina of Soda City FC Sorinex is shown during the club's 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against the Georgia Revolution FC Reserves. Photo: Soda City FC — Manny Medina of Soda City FC Sorinex is shown during the club’s 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against the Georgia Revolution FC Reserves. Photo: Soda City FC

Nashville United
(USASA / Middle Tennessee Soccer Alliance)
AT
Soda City FC Sorinex
(USASA / Central League)
Saluda Shoals Soccer Park – Columbia, SC
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO

Soda City FC Sorinex is pulling out all the stops for their qualifying match against Nashville United. Free admission and barbecue is on the menu at Saluda Shoals Soccer Park in Columbia, SC. They are trying to bring out a crowd to try to clinch their first-ever US Open Cup berth after falling one game short of the final round in their debut last year.

They reached Round 3 without leaving their home state of South Carolina. Soda City edged Charleston United in penalty kicks before cruising past the Georgia Revolution FC Reserves, 4-2. Soda City is attempting to become the first Open Division Local team from South Carolina to qualify for the tournament in the Modern Era (1995-present).

Nashville has had one of the easiest paths to to the Third Round. United received a first round bye and then crushed Springfield FC, 8-0. Nashville are led by a few former pros, including the Tampa Bay Rowdies all-time leading scorer Georgi Hristov and former MLS player Alen Kozic scoring in the 50th and the 55th minutes who each scored goals in that game. Nashville advances to Round 3 as they try to qualify for the US Open Cup for the first time after losing in a “Win & You’re In” game during the 2018 competition to FC Kendall (Fla.).

Livonia City FC poses for a team photo before their 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against Ann Arbor FC in Brighton, Mich. Photo: Livonia City FC

Livonia City FC
(USASA / Michigan Premier Soccer League)
AT
Louisiana Krewe FC
(USASA / Gulf Coast Premier League)
St. Thomas More Catholic HS – Lafayette, LA
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO

Livonia City are making the longest trek of any team in the Third Round of the qualifying tournament. The Michigan Premier Soccer League team will hop on a plane from Southeast Michigan to Lafayette, Louisiana to take on Louisiana Krewe FC. Two players will be passing on the flight (one player who does not fly, and a supportive teammate) and will make the nearly 1,200-mile journey by car.

Both clubs are seeking their first US Open Cup berth with Louisiana Krewe making their debut this year, and Livonia City making their second attempt. City were eliminated in penalty kicks in the Third Round by FC Maritsa (St. Louis) last year.

Livonia came out on top in a penalty kick shootout in the opening round against Wayne County Sporting (Detroit, Mich.) before knocking out Ann Arbor FC 6-2 to advance to Round 3. This is the third straight home game for the Krewe, who eliminated fellow Louisiana club Northshore United in Round 1 and needed a late goal by Henrique Pimpoa to edge the Houston-based Athletic Katy KC, 3-2 to advance to this weekend’s “Win & You’re In” match.

Luis Antonio Hernandez of NTX Rayados poses for the camera during the club’s 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against Inocentes Futbol Club. Photo: NTX Rayados

Celtic Cowboys Premier
(USSSA / Austin Men’s Soccer Association)
AT
NTX Rayados
(USASA / North Texas Premier Soccer Association)
Premier Park (Field 1) – Balch Springs, TX
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

The final two Texas teams meet to determine which amateur team will represent the Lone Star State in the 2020 US Open Cup. NTX Rayados and Celtic Cowboys Premier also boast the top scorers in this USOC qualifying campaign. Rayados’ Mohamed Sesay tops the scoring charts with six goals after a four-goal performance in a 7-0 win over Inocentes in the second round, while Celtic’s Chris Wright notched four of his own in a 7-1 first round win over Central Texas Lobos.

The Austin-based Cowboys are making their first appearance in the Third Qualfying Round, while the Rayados are looking to clear the final hurdle in extending their record of most appearances in the US Open Cup by an Open Division Local qualifier. The North Texans are chasing a ninth consecutive qualification into the tournament proper.

This is the third time the two teams have met in the Open Division Local qualifying tournament, with NTX Rayados winning both times. In their first meeting in the 2017 tournament, NTX Rayados cruised to a 7-0 win, and they won the rematch the following year, 4-1.

Players from Azteca FC and Athletic Club of Sloan's Lake (red) battle for the ball in their 2020 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Colorado Soccer Magazine — Players from Azteca FC and Athletic Club of Sloan’s Lake (red) battle for the ball in their 2020 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Colorado Soccer Magazine

Olympic Club
(USASA / San Francisco Soccer Football League)
AT
Azteca FC
(USSSA / Colorado Premier League)
Aurora Public Schools Stadium – Aurora, CO
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

The Olympic Club of San Francisco heads east of the Rockies to take on Azteca FC.

Olympic Club boasts several former MLS, NASL and USL players among their ranks. Four of those players account for six of the Olympic’s eight goals thus far in qualifying (Matt Fondy and Aaron Kovar – 2 goals each; Thomas Sanner and Bryan Burke – 1 goal each). In Olympic Club’s first attempt at qualifying, they began with wins over fellow Northern California UPSL clubs JASA RWC and the Oakland Stompers.

Azteca FC, who qualified for the 2017 and 2018 US Open Cup tournaments, enter this game with seven straight wins in Open Cup qualifying against six different Colorado opponents; FC Boulder Harpos being the only repeat victim. Jovany Herrera, Daniel Jimenez and Juan Simental each have a pair of goals in the two qualifiers thus far in a 5-0 win over Athletic Club of Sloan’s Lake and a 3-2 extra time win over FC Union Jerez. .

Art Aghasi of Cal FC (right) plays the ball against Quickening in the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Victor Friedman | Cal FC

Cal FC
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Oxnard Guerreros
(USASA / UPSL)
Del Sol Stadium – Oxnard, CA
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

Cal FC, best known for their upset of the Portland Timbers in the 2012 US Open Cup, are one game away from returning to the tournament that they made their name for the fifth time in club history and the second year in a row. Their opponent, the Oxnard Guerreros, are hoping to make some history of their own, but they need to use their home field advantage to beat Cal FC to get into the US Open Cup for the first time.

Cal FC, a team loaded with a mix of local Southern California talent and former pros, began their journey with a 9-2 win over Quickening (US Club Soccer/SoCal Premier League). They followed that up with a 3-1 win over fellow UPSL side Alta California Sol. The winning goal was scored by former LA Galaxy academy player Willie Raygoza.

Oxnard got to this year’s final round with a 2-0 home shutout win over the Santa Monica United FC. They followed that up with a 7-1 road win over Outbreak FC thanks to a hat trick by Raul Gonzalez and two more goals by Brenton Frame.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24

Brockton FC United pose for a team photo before their 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against Safira FC. Photo: Brockton FC United

New York Pancyprian Freedoms
(USASA / Cosmopolitan Soccer League)
AT
Brockton FC United
(USASA / Bay State Soccer League)
Everett Memorial Stadium – Everett, MA
Kickoff: 12:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBD

The three-time US Open Cup Champion New York Pancyprian Freedoms are back in the third round of qualifying for the second straight year. The team is now set to travel 215 miles, the longest it’s had to go since the qualifying tournament started in 2016, to face off against Brockton FC United.

For the Freedoms, the team will be trying to qualify for the first time since 2016 and 5th time in the Modern Era (1995-present). The organization has also qualified as members of the PDL (1999) and once more as a member of the USL D-3 Pro League (2002 as the New York Freedoms). The team received a bye into the second round of 2020 qualification earlier this year and won its second round match over Cedar Stars Academy (CSA Westchester in tournament logs) thanks to a man-advantage and second half goals by Adam Himeno and Nicholas Psarras.

The team has one of the richest histories in lower division American soccer both in-and-out of the USOC. As members of the Cosmopolitan Soccer League, one of the oldest continuously running leagues in the country, the Freedoms have won the league championship eight times. Additionally, the team has qualified or attempted to qualify for every National Challenge Cup / U.S. Open Cup since its inception in the early 1970s and former player Jeffrey Matteo is tied for the second most all-time assists in the tournament proper.

For the home-team, history is something they’ll be looking to make rather than look back on. Brockton FC United is attempting to qualify for the U.S. Open Cup for the first time in its 13 year history. Originally founded in 2006 as Tarrafal FC, the organization has teams compete in both the United Premier Soccer League and the Boston, MA-based Bay State Soccer League. The team won promotion to the BSSL’s top division last season and also won the 2014 Massachusetts Amateur Champions Cup.

In Brockton’s first qualification tournament, the team has been lead on offense by Leandro Alves. The forward has scored all of the teams goals against both Juve-Pro Soccer (1 goal) and Safira FC (2 goals), landing him one of the top spots on TheCup.us’ 2020 Qualifying Goal Scorers list. The former University of Vermont player was drafted in the third round of the 2019 MLS SuperDraft by DC United.

AJ Bishop and Andreas Bartosinski of West Chester United celebrate after scoring a goal against Lansdowne Yonkers FC in the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph - BrotherlyGame.com — AJ Bishop and Andreas Bartosinski of West Chester United celebrate after scoring a goal against Lansdowne Yonkers FC in the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph – BrotherlyGame.com

West Chester United SC
(USASA / United Soccer League of Pennsylvania)
AT
Vereinigung Erzebirge
(USASA / United Soccer League of Pennsylvania
Vereinigung Erzebirge Clubhouse (Field 1) – Warminster, PA
Kickoff: 2 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO

West Chester United SC and Vereinigung Erzebirge (VE) meet once again in the US Open Cup qualifying after the former advanced, 1-0, in last year’s first qualifying round. This time the two USL of Pennsylvania rivals are both one win away from reaching the 2020 tournament.

West Chester is looking to reach the tournament proper for the third time in club history, and the second year in a row. In 2019, the team reached the second round after the team beat NPSL side FC Baltimore Christos on penalty kicks. This year in qualifying, United has scored four or more goals in both its games against Danubia Swabian and Lansdowne Yonkers FC. Two of its players, Andrew Bishop and Charles Wilson, have scored three goals each so far in the competition.

The recent success of WCU will be up against nearly 90 years of history in Vereinigung Erzebirge. The team was started as a part of the social club founded by immigrants from the Erzgebirge region of eastern Germany and was a founding member of the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania in 1959. In that league, the team and WCU have become fierce rivals as VE has finished runner up to West Chester every season since 2017 in the top flight. Coming into this game, Vereinigung has already eliminated two other historic PA clubs, Ukrainian Nationals & United German Hungarians, and can bury old demons with one more win over the defending league champs.

VE, who qualified for the US Open Cup many times before the Modern Era, has only reached the Open Cup proper once since 1995. In 2002, they were one-and-done against the South Jersey Barons (D-3 Pro League), a team now known as the Ocean City Nor’easters.

Patrick Slogic from FC Boulder Harpos attempts to head the ball on frame in a 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against the Colorado Rush. Photo: Laemming Wheeler | FCB Harpos

Colorado Rovers
(USSSA / Colorado Premier League)
AT
FC Boulder Harpos
(USSSA / Colorado Premier League)
Fairview HS – Boulder, CO
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

FC Boulder Harpos FC and Colorado Rovers have met twice previously in the qualifying stages of the tournament, with Harpos winning both contests – 4-1 (aet) in 2015 (for the 2016 tournament) and 2-0 in 2016 (for 2017).

FC Boulder Harpos enter this contest buoyant, after winning the Colorado Premier League Final this past weekend, defeating Azteca FC 3-1. Harpos won all 8 league games in their fall season, outscoring opponents 41-to-1! The fall season is part of a 12-game unbeaten run since their last loss in July. The team will look to Brendan Roslund, Alex Masbruch, Andrew Mejia, Freddie Braun and Shane Wheeler to continue strong in Open Cup Qualifying.

The Colorado Rovers, in spite of finishing second in the table, are on a much different trajectory. In the final regular season game they were soundly defeated by Harpos 6-0. Rovers’ semi-final opponent, Azteca FC, then defeated them 2-1 the following week, leaving them on a 3-game winless streak entering this weekend.

Harpos look to return to the tournament proper for the first time since 2016. They have made it twice before (2015, 2016), losing to the Colorado Springs Switchbacks in the second round on both occasions. Rovers are looking to return to the tournament for the first time since 2014, when they lost 2-1 to Red Force FC from Florida in the first round.

CD Huateras form a prayer circle following their 2020 US Open Cup qualifier against World Class Premier Elite FC. Photo: CD Huateras

Virginia United
(ANFEEU / Woodbridge Soccer League)
AT
CD Huateras
(ANFEEU / Woodbridge Soccer League)
Howison Homestead Soccer Complex (Field TBD) – Woodbridge, VA
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: TBD

This is just the second year that teams from the Asociacon Nacional Futbol en USA (ANFEEU) have entered the Open Division Local Qualifying tournament for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. With two Woodbridge Soccer League rivals squaring off in this “Win & You’re In” game, it is assured that the ANFEEU will have a representative in the tournament for a second straight year.

Virginia United, who stunned Christos FC in last year’s competition on their way to qualifying for the 2019 US Open Cup, will take on CD Huateras on Sunday to determine which team will punch their ticket. Between these two teams, they have won four of the last five Woodbridge Soccer League titles, with CD Huateras winning the last two summer season trophies.

United received a first round bye and then defeated Alianza FC 2-1 on the strength of pair of first half goals by Bernardo Majano, a local player who played professionally in El Salvador.

CD Huateras, playing in their first-ever qualifying tournament, may have had the most dramatic path to the final win after a pair of narrow wins against UPSL teams. They trailed 2-1 in the second half to FC Millenium International and scored two goals in the final 15 minutes to advance, 3-2. In Round 2, CDH were up 3-0 at halftime, only to see World Class Premier Elite score three goals in the final 15 minutes to send the match into extra time. After re-taking the lead, CD Huateras saw WCPE equalize again, but they scored the game-winner in the 115th minute on a goal from Christian Najar, the brother of former MLS Rookie of the Year, Andy Najar.

Players from Steel FC (gold) and Tartan Devils Oak Avalon battle ofr the ball in their match in the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Brad Oskowski

Steel FC
(USASA / Greater Pittsburgh Soccer League)
AT
Christos FC
(USASA / Maryland Major Soccer League)
North County HS – Glen Burnie, MD
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: NONE

The final game of 2020 US Open Cup qualifying will determine whether a tournament cinderella returns or new blood takes over.

Christos FC made national headlines in their tournament debut back in 2016 after the club scored an opening, free-kick goal against MLS side D.C. United. Despite ultimately losing the game, 4-1, the team named after a liquor store that never practices has become a known commodity in soccer circles. Christos bowed of the tournament after one game the following year in 2017 and missed it entirely in 2018, but added a USASA Werner Fricker Amateur Open Cup trophy back in 2018.

This year in qualifying, the team has only played one game thanks to a first round bye. In the second round, the team made short work of Federal City Wanderers, 7-1, where Peter Caringi III scored a hat-trick for the team and landed a spot on the top goalscorers list.

Steel FC has scored three goals in both its tournament games so far and will be looking to do so again on Sunday to reach the tournament proper for the first time. The Greater Pittsburgh Soccer League side has a variety of goal scoring threats as all of its goals have been scored by different players (including an own-goal). The team beat Germantown City FC, 3-1, in the first round before scoring twice in extra-time to beat league foe Tartan Devils Oak Avalon at Highmark Stadium in the second round.

Since joining the GPSL’s top division in 2018, Steel FC have finished runner-up in the league final to Tartan Devils Oak Avalon in its first two seasons.

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying goalscoring leaders

November 3, 2019 by Michael Battista

Mohamed “James” Sesay of NTX Rayados celebrates one of his four goals against Inocentes Futbol Club in the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: NTX Rayados

GOALS
*Indicates a player whose team only played two games as a result of a first round bye

Nine Goals
Mohamed Sesay	NTX Rayados	USASA	Qualified

Six Goals
William Raygoza	Cal FC	USASA	Qualified

Five Goals
Frederick Braun	FC Boulder Harpos	USSSA	Qualified
Henrique Pimpao	Louisiana Krewe FC	USASA	Qualified
Christopher Wright	Celtic Cowboys Premier	USSSA	3rd Round

Four Goals
*Peter Caringi III	Christos FC	USASA	Qualified
Ardit Dushkaj	Livonia City FC	USASA	3rd Round
Matthew Fondy	Olympic Club	USASA	Qualified
*Georgi Hristov	Nashville United	USASA	Qualified
William Lucas Stamatis	Miami United FC U23	USASA	Qualified
Shane Wheeler	FC Boulder Harpos	USSSA	Qualified
Own-goals

Three Goals
Chance Arney	Houston FC	USASA	1st Round
Gerson Umana Alfaro	CD Huateras	ANFEEU	3rd Round
Leandro Alves	Brockton United FC	USASA	3rd Round
Matheus Fulini Barrozo	Louisiana Krewe FC	USASA	Qualified
Andrew Bishop	West Chester United SC	USASA	3rd Round
Dean Dillon	Lansdowne Yonkers FC	USASA	2nd Round
Raul Gonzalez	Oxnard Guerreros FC	USASA	3rd Round
*Alexander Lee	Christos FC	USASA	Qualified
Luiyi Armando Mosquera	Athletic Katy FC	USASA	2nd Round
Cristhyan Najar	CD Huateras	ANFEEU	3rd Round
*Cristhian Osorio	Virginia United	ANFEEU	Qualified
*Logan Paynter	Nashville United	USASA	Qualified
Erik Chavez Richart	Azteca FC	USSSA	3rd Round
David O’Brien	Celtic Cowboys Premier	USSSA	3rd Round
Charles Wilson	West Chester United SC	USASA	3rd Round

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2: Soda City FC Sorinex carry South Carolina flag into Round 3

November 3, 2019 by Wade Brazell

On a nice sunny Sunday afternoon at Saluda Shoals Park near the banks of the Saluda River in Irmo, S.C., Soda City FC Sorinex trounced the Georgia Revolution Reserves by a score of 4-2. After jumping out to a 3-0 halftime lead, the home team held off a second half push to advance to Round 3 of the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2020 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

Soda City is attempting to become the first Open Division Local team from South Carolina to qualify for the tournament in the Modern Era (1995-present).

Soda City got on the front foot early by pressing and capitalizing on early chances led by Graham Jermstad who notched both assists on the first two goals in the opening half hour. Seth Hansen opened the scoring in the 17th minute, followed by a goal off a corner kick by Leo Mukofsky. Soda City added a third after a mad scramble in the box that saw Davis Bryan volley it past the goalkeeper to send his team into the halftime break with a comfortable three-goal lead. The few times that the Revs did have the ball in the first half they would swing the ball out wide and blindly whip in a cross without success.

In the second half, it was a completely different ball game. The Revs, from the opening whistle, continued to press and finally broke through in the 70th minute off a goal by Ryan Pugh to make it 3-1 in favor Soda City. Pugh, a former NCAA Division II All-American at Clayton State, gave the Revolution an offensive spark. Then, in the 81st minute, an unmarked Revs defender Elisa Madichie gave Soda City a reason to be scared by scoring a wicked scissor kick on an assist by Asa Eggleston to make it 3-2 with no sign of slowing down.

But in the dying moments of the game, Soda City goalkeeper Grant Dickey initiated a counterattack by punting the ball to Akeel Crooks, playing the role of super-sub, into a one-on-one situation with the Revs keeper. Crooks lifted a delicate header into the net to make the score 4-2 and put the final nail in the coffin.

Soda City advances to Round 3 where they will host Nashville United at the same venue on Nov. 22.

“We are going to keep our head in the same direction and that is what we’re going to focus on,” said Soda City head coach Nick Lewis. “Because got knocked out in the third round of qualifying last year.”

Last year, in Soda City’s qualifying debut, they advanced to Round 3 where they lost a 2-1 road game to America SC down in Winter Garden, Fla. Lewis acknowledges that this year is different. The main difference, he noted, will be getting to stay home for their next round match and not having to drive down to the Orlando area, like they did a year ago.

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2: Vereinigung Erzgebirge edges UGH in battle of historic Philly area clubs

October 24, 2019 by Daniel Rohll

In a scrappy game that ultimately went the full 120 minutes, it was Vereinigung Erzgebirge (VE) who deservedly triumphed 2-0 over the United German Hungarians. Despite looking on top for the majority of the game, it took 100 minutes for the away side to get their first goal and, even then, Sean Fahy’s close range header came only after a chaotic goal-mouth scramble. Sean Peckham would add another late in extra time to give VE two straight wins in the competition for the first time.

VE will host West Chester United in a Third Round match-up on Sunday, Nov. 24 (2:30 p.m. kickoff) as they attempt to qualify for the US Open Cup for the first time since 2002.

Undoubtedly, the conditions did not help either team to play champagne football. Heavy rain in the Philadelphia area saw the match relocated from United German Hungarians’ home ground to the all-weather surface at Bryn Athyn College just hours before kickoff. The combination of wet conditions and synthetic turf saw the ball run very quickly, making gaining control of the ball extremely difficult. Largely as a result of this, at times the match did descend into a midfield skirmish with neither side able to gain a proper hold of the game. Indeed, it could be argued that only one outfield player – VE’s Derek Antonini – was consistently able to control and use the ball and, consequently, he was at the center of much of this game’s drama.

Like most of the rest of the VE team, Antonini, who played as an attacking midfielder, took a few minutes to get into gear as UGH looked more promising in the early minutes. In the first 10 minutes, they controlled possession and the game was being played in VE’s half. Ultimately though they failed to convert this pressure into anything concrete, with Gabriel Dwyer’s edge of the box shot the only half-chance Hungarian’s were able to carve for themselves.

After 10 minutes, the game had begun to settle into the pattern that would, by-and-large, repeat itself for the next hour and a half – disjointed battling for possession in the midfield occasionally punctuated by flashes of quality from Antonini and successions of VE corner-kicks. The first clear glimpse of Antonini’s talents came in the 14th minute as he lashed a shot onto the bar from 30 yards out and standing at 6-foot-4, it was also Antonini who was the target of most VE corners. The first few corners saw UGH ‘keeper Hopf perform well under the high ball however VE’s physical dominance was clear. Indeed, such was the danger Hungarians perceived he and his teammates offered in the air, the home team would often put all 11 men in their own box to defend corners (a tactical decision that deprived UGH of an attacking outlet and facilitated lengthy, multi-corner VE attacks).

It didn’t take long however for Hungarian’s to identify Antonini as the VE dangerman. By the midway point in the first half the 26-year-old was routinely being swarmed by defenders upon receiving the ball. This tactic was partially successful. Antonini himself no longer had the space to play freely but, thanks to his size, control and short passing ability, he was able to exploit the space vacated by the players who had rushed to pressure him. Had his teammates been more able to exploit this space (or take up sufficiently dangerous positions to reduce the pressure on Antonini in the first place) then the VE break-through could have come far earlier. Perhaps the most notable culprit here was right winger Toby Abdul Razaq who, despite looking dangerous, failed to hurt UGH, most frustratingly early in the second half when he squandered three chances in five minutes – significant in a game in which good chances were at such a premium.

Perhaps the biggest talking point from regulation time came in the 35th minute when, in an ill-judged attempt to prove his credentials as a sweeper-keeper, Hungarian’s ‘keeper Hopf (who had an outstanding game for the most part) cleared out, you guessed it, Antonini, 35 yards from goal. Confusion ensued but ultimately Hopf only received a winding for his actions, as opposed to the red card that the VE players and bench were calling for. In truth, the decision could have gone either way. Whilst one Hungarian player’s claim that the ball touched Hopf’s back during the collision, thus making the action legal, was fanciful justification of a bad tackle, the distance of the contact from the goal, relative proximity of UGH defenders and Antonini’s lack of complete control over the ball all added weight to the referees decision. Nevertheless, right decision or wrong, the game remained 11 vs 11 and the score remained 0-0.

Barring the aforementioned chances for Abdul Razaq, the second half passed largely without incident. Hungarian’s strategy was clear – dig in and hope to go through via the lottery of spot-kicks – and VE, whilst superior, looked devoid of the creativity to fashion a clear-cut chance to kill their opposition off. Extra time seemed likely with 20 minutes left of normal time to play and the intensity on the pitch was beginning to flag. VE almost snatched it at the death following an Antonini flick-on however they were once again denied by a flying Hopf save. Apart from that chance, perhaps the most memorable moment of the final quarter of the match was the Hungarian manager’s passionate demands for the punishment of a VE substitute whose socks were the wrong color.

After 10 minutes of extra-time however, the Hungarian defense was finally broken. Once again, it was an Antonini flick on the edge of the box that helped create the space. Once again it looked as if the chance would go begging as three times VE shots were blocked but, eventually, it was bundled home with Sean Fahy getting the final touch from just a yard or two out. It never seemed likely that Hungarian would be able to come back from that blow and when, five minutes later, Adam Bastidas curled a free kick in from just outside the box, the game was all but over.

In some ways, it was a shame that probably the greatest moment of quality in the match had so little consequence compared to the scrappy goal courtesy of a goalkeeper spill that came five minutes before it, however Fahy’s goal was undoubtedly more fitting. VE had been testing Hopf in the Hungarian goal all day and, in the wet conditions, all it was going to take was for the ball to slip invitingly from Hopf’s grasp into the path of a VE player.

When the game clearly came to be dominated by VE, UGH gambled. They gambled that they could pack their box and ride out the storm for 120 minutes, trusting VE didn’t have the quality to create a clear chance when faced with so many defenders. VE, however, also gambled. They gambled that, if they subjected Hopf and the aging Hungarian defense to enough pressure (and a little Antonini flair), eventually they’d crack.

VE’s gamble paid off.

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2: NY Pancyprian Freedoms win league title game rematch to advance

October 23, 2019 by Michael Battista

The New York Pancyprian Freedoms and the Cedar Stars Academy Westchester, who met in the Cosmopolitan Soccer League championship game, met again in the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Michael Battista — The New York Pancyprian Freedoms and the Cedar Stars Academy, who met in the 2019 Cosmopolitan Soccer League championship game, met again in the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Michael Battista

The three-time US Open Cup champion New York Pancyprian Freedoms advanced to the Third Round of the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2020 US Open Cup with a win over its Cosmopolitan Soccer League (CSL) counterpart Cedar Stars Academy (“CSA Westchester” in tournament logs), 2-0, on Sunday afternoon. The first game of the Sunday slate was a rematch of the 2019 CSL Division 1 championship game, which the Freedoms also won.

CSA’s loss in it’s USOC qualifying debut means New Jersey is now down to zero active participants after starting the 2020 process with a record number (3). The last Garden State team to reach the tournament proper through the qualifying tournament was FC Motown in 2017, which beat two Cosmopolitan Soccer League sides on route to its only tournament appearance as a Local Qualifier (the team has since qualified through league results in the National Premier Soccer League in both 2018 and 2019).

For the Freedoms, which have began the league season on a slow start only winning one of its first four games, the win over a top team not only in the CSL but the region is something staff, like midfielder Justin Tristino, hope can be a huge boost.

“It’s big for the team as a whole,“ Tristino said. “We started a little bit slow. But we came out today and made a statement. Probably our best game I’ve seen us play yet.”

Pancyprian Freedoms team captain Andreas Chronis, who has previous professional experience in Greece, said that his team did what it needed to do

“For us, the objective is to go as far as we could and to play as well as we could,” the Queens native said. “Today our coach said that ‘we actually played soccer today, we enjoyed the game and we were out there fighting.’ That’s what we want to do win or lose and as we keep going forward we just want to show that we can play soccer with any team out there.”

Despite playing a man up for nearly three-quarters of the game the tough competition forced the Freedoms to play smart. Goals from Adam Himeno and second-half substitute Nicholas Psarras only came after the team wore down their competition.

The game started in a back and forth despite the Freedoms getting a majority of the early shots.

The Cedar Stars tried to play around the Pancyprian players, including fast runs up the wing especially from midfielder Maxi Garcia. For New York, the majority of time consisted of either trying to move the backlines of CSA and open space for long chances.

Chronis admits that as the weather deteriorated, he and his team tried to use it to their advantage.

“We wanted to test their goalie. They were dropping off us quite a bit … That was our strategy, to let them know we’re not here to just play passively. We want to attack and get opportunities on net. And if it just so happened that the goalie dropped the ball we would be there to put it in.”

One of those opportunities came in the 7th minute when his teammate James Thristino was fouled in the box. Chronis stepped up for the penalty kick but Stars keeper Derby Carrillo guessed right on a shot to the lower left and blocked it out for an unsuccessful corner. Chronis said afterwards he couldn’t remember the last time he failed to convert a penalty.

As the visiting team’s bench and coaches showed frustration for the lack of finishing, including a very vocal Mastrokyriakos, CSA passed the ball in a more organized fashion for most of the first 45 minutes. The home team did not have the majority of actually shots at goal, but compared to the ones the Freedoms were producing, CSA looked to be playing a longer more developed game that it was unable to culminate into anything.

The turning point came in the 27th minute as a collision between two players escalated. Cedar Stars’ Garcia and a Freedoms defender collided hard, with an audible thud, but neither player went down. Words were exchanged as both went chest-to-chest and after some physicality Garcia threw an open first punch / slap and made contact with the other player. A red card sent him off as the rest of the Freedoms held back their infuriated teammate while the Stars manager and owner, Oliver Papraniku, tried to make a point to the fourth official.

From his perspective, explained in an email following the game, both players should have been tossed from the game. Regardless,play would continue with only 10-men and the CSA wing losing a key piece to get around the defense.

The second half was almost all Freedoms, and despite Carrilo making a number of saves his team began to be vocally frustrated as plays failed to develop out of their own end.

Right as rain began to pick up in the 65th minute, with the dozen spectators either dawning umbrellas or heading for nearby sheltered viewing areas, Himeno scored the gamer winner off a cross from the left side by Chronis.

More chances for the Freedoms, including a point-blank shot that was saved by Carrilo, gave CSA hope for tying. One chance down the right side late by First Round hero Ovan Oakley seemed to have promise, but a raised flag seemed to deflate any momentum as both head coach Austin Friel and Papraniku were issued a yellow card for conduct.

The game finished when Psarras, who had only entered the match nine minutes prior, received a long pass from a broken up CSA play. His run into the zone brought Carrilo out from net but he was unable to block the sub from playing around the right side and kicking into the open net for the last play of the game in the fourth minute of stoppage time.

The team now moves on to play Brockton United FC, the last side remaining from the state of Massachusetts, where the Freedoms will once again be the road team.

For Chronis he knows how much this tournament means not only to him but everyone on the Freedoms.

“I think the further we go in this tournament the more opportunity we have to show what kind of caliber we have as an amateur team,” he said. “We have a lot of players that are actually good, a lot of young players that want to play at the highest level that they can and this is probably the only opportunity they have, and us as a team, to continue to go forward and to improve what we have.”

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2 preview: 23 games on the schedule for this weekend

October 19, 2019 by Josh Hakala

The Second Round of the Open Division Local Qualifying Tournament for the 2020 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup kicks off this weekend with 24 games. Saturday, Oct. 19 has 12 games on the schedule, followed by 11 more on Sunday. Saturday’s game between South Carolina side Soda City FC Sorinex (USASA / Central League) and the Georgia Revolution FC Reserves (USASA /Atlantic District Amateur Soccer League) was postponed due to heavy rains in Columbia, S.C.

This weekend’s winners will advance to Round 3 which is scheduled for the weekend of Nov. 23-24.

Check out a preview of each game below, including links to our qualifying coverage. TheCup.us will have live updates from every single game on Twitter @USOpenCup.

#USOC2020 ESSENTIALS

2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Schedule / Results
2020 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1 Game-By-Game Review

FEATURED GAMES

Lansdowne Yonkers FC
(USASA / Cosmopolitan Soccer League)
AT
West Chester United SC
(USASA / United Soccer League of Pennsylvania)
West Chester United SC Turf Field – West Chester, PA
Saturday, Oct. 19 – 7 p.m. ET

By Josh Hakala

Two of the top teams in the Northeast square off on Saturday night when West Chester United hosts Lansdowne Yonkers FC.

WCU is trying to qualify for the US Open Cup for the second year in a row and the third time in the last five years. Last year, United swept through all four qualifying matches without allowing a goal, outscoring its opposition 10-0. They began this year’s competition with another shutout, a 5-0 win over Danubia Swabian of Philadelphia. The United Soccer League of Pennsylvania club, which also has a team that competes in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), were led by Chas Wilson in that game who scored a hat trick and dished out one assist.

Just like West Chester, Lansdowne is also attempting to qualify for the third time in five years (2016, 2018). Last year, the club was one-and-done for the first time since this new Open Division Local qualifying tournament began in 2015. They kicked off this year’s competition with a 4-2 road win over New Jersey’s Clifton Elite FC. They were led by Dean Dillon, who scored a pair of goals. Dillon signed for Lansdowne from League of Ireland Premier Division side Shamrock Rovers. Lansdowne has developed a strong resume since bursting onto the scene a little more than five years ago. They won four straight Cosmopolitan Soccer League titles between 2013-17 and two USASA Amateur Cup championships (2017, 2019).

Vereinigung Erzebirge
(USASA / United Soccer League of Pennsylvania)
AT
United German Hungarians
(USASA / United Soccer League of Pennsylvania)
Trifecta Sporting Club Stadium Field – Oakford, PA
Sunday, Oct. 20 – 3 p.m. ET

By Jim Coppock

Two long-time United Soccer League of Pennsylvania (USLPa) teams meet for the opportunity to advance to the third qualifying round of the 107th U.S. Open Cup. Both teams compete in the USLPa’s Major Division and have a combined 147 years of existence. United German Hungarians (UGH) have not made the tournament proper since 1999; Vereinigung Erzgebirge (VE) has not been there since 2002.

UGH were US Open Cup runners-up in 1977 and 1993. Their all-time roster boasts: a former U.S. Soccer president (Werner Fricker), 2 MLS veterans (Steve Rammel and Peter Vermes), 2 U.S. National Teamers (Walter Bahr & Alex Ely), 2 U.S. Olympians (Jack Dunn & Casey Bahr), and an NFL kicker (Chris Bahr).

Fun fact: All three of Walter Bahr’s sons played soccer in the North American Soccer League; Casey and Chris with the Philadelphia Atoms in 1973 and 1975, respectively, and Matt with the Caribous of Colorado and Tulsa Roughnecks in 1978.

VE founded their social club in 1931, with the team getting its start in 1969. UGH have a nearly 100-year history playing the game. The social club itself was formed in 1910 and the soccer team formed in 1922 as Banater A.A.

VE has already defeated another veteran USL PA side, and four-time Open Cup winners, Ukrainian Nationals, in the first qualifying round by a 4-1 score, while UGH were awarded a bye for the first qualifying round. UGH has a 1-0 record against VE in the qualifying tournament, with the lone victory coming after extra time in 2017. The two teams met semi-regularly prior to the 2016 qualifying tournament format with their last meeting coming in November of 2013 when VE edged UGH 1-0 in the Quarterfinals of the Eastern Pennsylvania tournament.

Colorado Rush
(USSSA / Colorado Super League)
AT
FC Boulder Harpos
(USSSA / Colorado Premier League)
Fairview High School – Boulder, CO
Sunday, Oct. 20 – 5 p.m. ET

By Jim Coppock

Two of metro Denver’s most well-known clubs meet once again in the US Open Cup qualifying phase. This is the third meeting between these clubs; Harpos have a 2-0 record (3-1 and 2-1 after extra time). Harpos’ last tournament appearance was in 2016; Rush’s last was in 2017.

Harpos defeated long-time rivals FC Denver 2-0 in the previous round on goals from (former MLS player) Freddie Braun, and Shane Wheeler. Rush defeated Club El Azul in the first round in a shortened extra time contest, 3-2. The game was called in extra time due to 5 El Azul players being sent off (4 DURING extra time), which left them with just 6 players to continue (7 is the minimum).

Rush will want to continue to honor their recently deceased teammate and former Director of Coaching, Colin Clark, with a victory. Colin passed away after suffering a heart attack on August 26th. Colin spent eight years in MLS, five of those with the Colorado Rapids.

Miami United FC Under-23s
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Florida Soccer Soldiers
(USASA / UPSL)
Jr. Orange Bowl Stadium (Ives Estates Park) – Miami, FL
Sunday, Oct. 20 – 6 p.m.

By Josh Hakala

Last year’s Open Division Local Cinderella story was the Florida Soccer Soldiers. They cruised through qualifying and then made headlines by upsetting two professional teams (Miami FC of the NPSL and the Charlotte Independence of the USL Championship). That Cup run gave them plenty of attention, but that also led to losing some key players, including William Stamatis, who signed with Miami United FC, and TheCup.us Lower Division Player of the Tournament finalist Valentin Sabella, who signed with the club he sent packing in the Open Cup: the Charlotte Independence. The Soccer Soldiers are back this year and began the qualifying tournament by shutting out South Florida power Red Force FC (UPSL) for the second year in a row. The score was 2-0 and Andres De Somocurcio led the way with a goal and an assist.

The Miami United Under-23s are back after taking a year off last year. They made their debut in 2018, losing their opening match to South Florida FC (APSL), 3-1. After not entering last year, they picked up their first qualifying win in Round 1, eliminating Atletico Miami CF, 7-3. United scored five goals in the first half to cruise to an easy win. Former Soccer Soldier William Stamatis and Juan Bazan each scored a pair of goals.

Oakland Stompers
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Olympic Club
(USASA / San Francisco Soccer Football League)
Beach Chalet Soccer Fields – San Francisco, CA
Saturday, Oct. 19 – 10 p.m. ET

By Michael Battista

The battle of the bay between Olympic Club and Oakland Stompers could not be between two more-different clubs. For one, the prospect of entering the US Open Cup for the first time in its more than 100-year history is backed by a plethora of former professional players, while the other is named after a past-NASL team with deep community roots in the Oakland area.

The Olympic Club itself is one of the countries oldest athletic clubs whose members have included Major League Baseball Hall of Famers Joe DiMaggio, Ty Cobb, and even go beyond the world of sports with Mark Twain – one of the greatest American authors of all time. Despite being more known for golf, members helped found the San Francisco Soccer Football League (SFSFL) in 1914 and since then the club’s team has won the league 14 times. In its current iteration, the Flying O’s boast one of the most top heavy squads in US Open Cup qualifying. Players with former professional experience include Matthew Fondy (NASL), Bryan Burke (USL Pro & NASL), Michael Zaher (MLS & USL), and the previously retired Seattle Sounders star Aaron Kovar.

These players, along with an array of college talent along with University of San Francisco assistant men’s soccer coach Javier Ayala-Hil, helped the team cruise past its first round opponent JASA RWC, 4-0.

On the other side of the Golden Gate bridge lies the Oakland Stompers of the United Premier Soccer League. The team, whose roots date back to 1984 as a youth club, began playing as a men’s team in 2009. Over the next decade the Stompers competed in various leagues, such as the aforementioned SFSFL before joining the UPSL in Spring 2018.

Last year, the Stompers competed in their first USOC Qualifying tournament and made it to the third round past Oakland FC Leopards and Real San Jose. Despite falling to eventual 2019 Tournament Finalist Academica SC, the team has rebounded and returns to the Second Round this year after beating Contra Costa FC off a second half goal from Junior Paolo Leonardo Hinostroza.

Here are the remaining qualifying games taking place this weekend:

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19

Brockton FC United
(USASA / Bay State Soccer League)
AT
Safira FC
(USASA / Bay State Soccer League)
Dilboy Stadium – Somerville, MA
Kickoff: 11 a.m.

Dilboy Stadium has played host to matches featuring such famous clubs as Celtic and West Ham. Even England’s 1966 World Cup hat-trick hero Geoff Hurst has scored goals at the field that, in more recent years, has become a home fortress for Safira FC. The Brazilian-influenced UPSL side welcomes Brockton FC United from south of the city to the north Boston suburb of Somerville on Saturday morning to kick off Round 2 of the 2020 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Safira boasts a potent attack in striker Hugo Bomfim and recent additions Michael Rincon and Rigoberto Jimenez. The trio scored in a 4-0 first qualifying round win over Kendall Wanderers and all have starred with Boston City FC in the NPSL. Safira are attempting to qualify for the first time after falling one game short last year in a 3-0 loss at Dilboy Stadium to West Chester United.

Brockton, who are making their qualifying debut, have enjoyed success in the local Bay State Soccer League and have expanded into the UPSL. Ricky Alves earned Brockton a first-ever US Open Cup win in their first round qualifier, a 1-0 success over Juve-Pro Soccer.

Georgia Revolution FC Reserves
(USASA / Atlanta District Amateur Soccer League)
AT
Soda City FC Sorinex
(USASA / Central League)
Saluda Shoals Soccer Park – Columbia, SC
Date/Kickoff TBA

Unfortunately, due to heavy rains in Columbia, S.C., this game has been postponed. A makeup date will be announced soon.

Soda City Sorinex won two games in their qualifying debut last year, and got off to another good start this year. The South Carolina club edged Charleston United in a PK shootout to reach Round 2. They will take on the Georgia Revolution FC Reserves who are attempting to do what their senior team did back in 2012 and 2013: qualify for the US Open Cup. The senior team that plays in the NPSL, advanced three times in those two tournament appearances.

World Class Premier Elite FC
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
CD Huateras
(ANFEEU / Woodbridge Soccer League)
Howison Homestead Soccer Complex (Field 1) – Woodbridge, VA
Kickoff: 6 p.m.

Last year, Maryland-based World Class Premier Elite FC nearly qualified for the US Open Cup in their first entry into the qualifying tournament. They played all four games on the road in four different states, scoring 15 goals, but the journey would fall short in a penalty kick shootout against fellow newcomers Virginia United. They return to the very same venue where they suffered that shootout loss and they will take on one of Virginia United’s league rivals in CD Huateras. WCPE started the tournament with another road win, 4-1 over SOCA (Charlottesville, VA), while CD Huateras edged UPSL side FC Millenium International, 3-2.

Academica SC
(USCS / LIGA NorCal)
AT
Chula Vista FC
(USASA / SoCal Premier League)
Terra Nova Park – Chula Vista, CA
Kickoff: 6:15 p.m. ET

Academica SC makes the lengthy trip from Northern California (Turlock, CA) to the San Diego area as they take on Chula Vista FC. Acadmica are the last US Club Soccer team left in the tournament. The LIGA NorCal team, that qualified for the 2019 US Open Cup, are traveling outside of Northern California for the first time in this competition and are seeking their second straight win after a 4-1 home win over PV United (USASA / UPSL) in Round 1.

Chula Vista FC has been a regular in US Open Cup qualifying since they first punched their ticket back in 2015, the year before the current Open Division Local Qualifying format was launched. That year, they pulled off one of the bigger upsets when they went on the road to upset the USL’s Arizona United SC. 3-0. In their first three years of the new format, they reached the final round all three years, qualifying in 2017. Last year, the SoCal Premier League side lost their opening game (after receiving a bye in the First Round) to California United FC II, 2-0. This year, they are back again and began their qualifying run with a 2-2 draw and a penalty kick shootout win over fellow SoCal Premier League side Rebels SC, who remarkably played for about 110 minutes with a field player as their goalkeeper after their starter was injured.

Inocentes Futbol Club
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
NTX Rayados
(USASA / North Texas Premier Soccer Association)
Premier Park (Field 1) – Balch Springs, TX
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

When the dust settles on the Second Round, there will be just one Dallas-area club left standing when Open Cup regulars NTX Rayados host Inocentes Futbol Club on Saturday.

Inocentes FC, who have split their first two games in the UPSL Fall Season, are attempting to qualify for the tournament for the first time. They began their journey to the 2020 US Open Cup with a 2-1 road win over Lone Star Republic.

No Open Division Local team in the Modern Era (1995-present) has qualified for the US Open Cup more consecutive times than NTX Rayados. The North Texas Premier Soccer Association side is seeking a ninth straight trip to the US Open Cup, a streak that began in 2012. Only Reading United AC (USL League Two) has a longer qualifying streak among all Open Division clubs with 11. North Texas got off to a good start in Round 1 with a 4-2 home win over UPSL side FC Fort Worth SC. They received goals from four different players: Reece Wilson, Mohamed Sesay, Kevin Ellis, and Luis Hernandez.

Celtic Cowboys Premier
(USSSA / Austin Men’s Soccer Association)
AT
San Antonio Runners
(USASA / UPSL)
UTSA Campus Recreation Field Complex South – San Antonio, TX
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

It’s Austin vs. San Antonio in this qualifying match between Celtic Cowboys Premier and the San Antonio Runners. The Runners, who are a college club team based at the University of Texas – San Antonio, are coming off their first qualifying win in team history last round. They defeated the UPSL’s Coyotes FC 3-2 in Temple, Texas.

Last year, the Runners made their qualifying debut but lost in the opening round to Satuday’s opponent: Celtic Cowboys Premier. The rematch will be hosted by the Runners this time. The Celtic Cowboys are competing in the qualifying tournament for the fourth year in a row, but they have yet to win multiple games in a single competition. They won their opening match in 2018 (vs. Austin Real Cuauhtemoc) and 2019 (vs. San Antonio Runners). They continued that streak this year with a 7-1 win over Central Texas Lobos (USASA / Gulf Coast Premier League). Former University of New Mexico player Chris Wright scored four times to lead the Cowboys.

Athletic Katy FC
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Louisiana Krewe FC
(USASA / Gulf Coast Premier League)
St. Thomas More Catholic High School – Lafayette, LA
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Athletic Katy FC from the Houston area will hit the road to take on the Louisiana Krewe FC. Both teams are seeking their first US Open Cup berth and will meet in Lafayette on Saturday night.

Athletic Katy began the UPSL’s Fall Season with back-to-back losses, but are unbeaten in their last three games (1-0-2). They currently sit in fourth place in the Central Conference’s South Division I. To reach the Second Round of qualifying, they eliminated the division’s current second place team, Houston FC, in penalty kicks (5-4) after a 3-3 draw. It was a dramatic game as Athletic Katy let a 3-0 halftime lead slip away, despite Houston losing their starting goalkeeper to injury, and their backup goalkeeper to a red card in the second half. With an inexperienced field player putting on the goalkeeper gloves, Houston scored three goals to send the game into extra time where Athletic Katy prevailed in the shootout.

The Krewe, who compete in the Gulf Coast Premier League, began their Cup run with a 5-2 win over fellow Louisiana-based Gulf Coast Premier League club Northshore United. Henrique Pimpao was the hat trick hero, leaving the Krewe as the last Louisiana club remaining in the competition.

Nashville United
(USASA / Middle Tennessee Soccer Alliance)
AT
Springfield FC
(USASA / UPSL)
Springfield Area Soccer Association – Springfield, IL
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Originally slated as a first qualifying round match, Nashville and Springfield find themselves contesting the second qualifying round. This is Nashville United’s second attempt at the Open cup in the past three years. Nashville currently sit atop the Middle Tennessee Soccer Alliance-Open division. Springfield FC finished the UPSL 2019 Spring Midwest Conference-South in third place. these two clubs are the only entries from their respective states in the competition.

Livonia City FC
(USASA / Michigan Premier Soccer League)
AT
Ann Arbor FC
(USASA / Ann Arbor Premier Development League)
Legacy Center Sports Complex – Brighton, MI
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

The last two Michigan clubs in the tournament square off in the Second Round. Since the Open Division Local Qualifying tournament was created for the 2016 US Open Cup, no Michigan club has qualified for the tournament. There has not been an Open Division Local team from the Great Lakes State since 2013 (Dearborn Stars SC).

It’s a rematch of last year’s opening round where Livonia City, making their qualifying debut, defeated Ann Arbor FC (on the same field in Brighton, Mich.) 4-3 in extra time. They would reach the Third Round of the competition, falling in penalty kicks to FC Maritsa.

After a 2-2 draw, Livonia needed penalty kicks to advance past newcomers Wayne County Sporting into Round 2.

Ann Arbor FC has entered the qualifying tournament in each of the last four years, but has yet to earn a win on the field. They advanced beyond the First Round by forfeit, but then forfeited themselves when they were unable to travel to Rochester, NY for their Round 2 match. This year, Ann Arbor advanced to Round 2 after receiving a bye.

Alta California Sol
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Cal FC
(USASA / UPSL)
Orange County Great Park (Field 16) – Irvine, CA
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET

Cal FC and Alta California Sol meet for the first time in either the Cup. This is Alta California Sol’s first attempt at qualifying for the Open Cup. Cal FC’s USOC journey began in 2012, by defeating the PDL’s Kitsap Pumas, USL Pro’s Wilmington Hammerheads, and MLS’ Portland Timbers, before being dispatched by the Seattle Sounders in the fourth round. Cal FC arrive on the back of a dominant 9-2 win over Quickening, featuring a hat-trick by Willie Raygoza; Alta California defeated USA Soccer Stars 2-1 with a brace from Celso Lagunas.

Oxnard Guerreros
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Outbreak FC
(USASA / SoCal Premier League)
Orange County Great Park (Field 19) – Irvine, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

This is the first meeting between these two teams and Oxnard’s first attempt at qualifying. Outbreak FC are in their fifth consecutive qualifying tournament and are looking to make the first round since 2017. Oxnard get here after a 2-0 win, on goals from Raul Yepez and Jesse Tamayo, over Santa Monica United. Outbreak advanced after falling behind in the 3rd minute against Real San Jose, equalizing in the 10th through Torey Edwards, to push their way through to a 4-2 PK shootout win after a 1-all draw.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20

New York Pancyprian Freedoms
(USASA / Cosmopolitan Soccer League)
AT
Cedar Stars Academy Westchester
(USASA / Cosmopolitan Soccer League)
Ramapo College of New Jersey – Mahwah, NJ
Kickoff: 12 p.m. ET

Two teams from one of the longest running leagues in the country (96 years) with almost a decade of history between them, square off in the second qualifying round. Cedar Stars had a 2-1 victory in the first round, while New York had a bye.
Cedar Stars have two players in excellent form; forward Chris Katona who scored the opener in the first round game and four in his last league contest, and Ovan Oakley, who had the winner in the first round game as well as a brace in the most recent league game this past week.
The Pancyprians have lifted the Dewar Cup three times (1980, 1982, 1983) and are looking to return to the Cup proper for the first time since 2016. Adam Himeno leads the team in scoring in CSL play. With the team struggling in the league, a victory here could reinvigorate their season.

Azteca FC
(USASA / Colorado Premier League)
AT
FC Union Jerez
(USASA / Colorado Premier League)
Broomfield Commons (Field TBD) – Broomfield, CO
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET

A pair of teams from the top half of the Colorado Premier League table face-off in the second qualifying round. This is their first-ever USOC meeting. Azteca (3rd in CPL) have the distinction of having never lost a qualifying round game—6 wins from 6—while outscoring opponents 19-to-7. Azteca dispatched AC Sloan’s Lake in the first qualifying round 5-0, while Union Jerez (5th CPL) saved a late penalty kick, after scoring 2 unanswered goals, to best GAM United 2-1, after extra time. Azteca are looking to make the first round proper for the first time since 2018; Union Jerez have never advanced beyond the qualifying rounds.

Hurricane FC
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Orlando FC Wolves
(USASA / Central Florida Soccer League)
Sylvan Lake Park (Field D) – Sanford, FL
Kickoff: 5 p.m.

Hurricane FC travels north to take on Orlando FC Wolves as they attempt to win back-to-back qualifying games for the first time in club history. Orlando, who are also seeking their first Open Cup berth, are participating for the second year in a row.

Last year, Hurricane FC earned their first qualifying win in Orlando with a 4-0 win over Sporting Orlando SC, before losing to Florida Soccer Soldiers in Round 3 by the score of 6-0. They kicked off their 2020 US Open Cup run by edging the International Soccer Association 9-8 in a penalty kick shootout (after a 1-1 draw).

After being one-and-done in their debut last year, Orlando FC Wolves kicked off this year’s competition with a 2-1 extra time win over Deportivo Lake Mary.

Alianza FC
(ANFEEU / Woodbridge Soccer League)
AT
Virginia United
(ANFEEU / Woodbridge Soccer League)
George Hampton Middle School – Woodbridge, VA
Kickoff: 6 p.m.

A pair of Woodbridge Soccer League rivals will meet on Saturday with a spot in the Third Round on the line. Virginia United made a big splash last year in their qualifying debut as they knocked off three Maryland Major Soccer League teams, including Christos FC, en route to becoming the first Asociacon Nacional Futbol en USA (ANFEEU) team to punch their ticket to the US Open Cup. This year, United received a bye into the Second Round, while Alianza FC edged fellow Woodbridge Soccer League rival Doradus FC, 2-1

Currently, Alianza FC is tied for first place in the Woodbridge Soccer League with a 7-1-2 record. Virginia United are just three points behind them with a 6-2-2 mark.

Federal City Wanderers
(USASA / District Sports Premier League)
AT
Christos FC
(USASA / Maryland Major Soccer League)
Glen Burnie High School – Glen Burnie, MD
Kickoff: 6 p.m.

Christos are in their fourth consecutive qualifying tournament (2017-2020); Federal City, once known as World Bank FC, are debutants but hoping to make a big splash. Christos have a storied history, much like Cal FC, in that they have had a Cinderella tournament in which they played all the way through to the big dogs (MLS).
Their magical 2017 run began with an NPSL opponent-Fredericksburg FC; then came the USL‘s Richmond Kickers (USOC winners in 1995—and the last amateur team to win the Cup); then Chicago FC United of the then-PDL, which set up a date with DC United of MLS in the fourth round. In front of nearly 5,300 people, Christos jumped out to the lead early, and held the score at 1-1 until the final 10 minutes. Ultimately, DC United showed their class and won it 4-1. Since then, Christos has fallen at the first round in both the 2018 and 2019 competitions.

Tartan Devils Oak Avalon
(USASA / Greater Pittsburgh Soccer League)
AT
Steel FC
(USASA / Greater Pittsburgh Soccer League)
Highmark Stadium – Pittsburgh, PA
Kickoff: 7 p.m.

It seems fitting that the qualifying tournament’s last two Pittsburgh teams should play each other in the city’s crown jewel soccer-specific stadium. Steel FC will host the Tartan Devils Oak Avalon at Highmark Stadium, the home of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL Championship). Both teams are familiar with each other since they both compete in the Greater Pittsburgh Soccer League.

Steel FC are seeking their first trip to the US Open Cup and began the competition with a 3-1 home win over Germantown City FC from the Woodbridge Soccer League (Va.) on the strength of a trio of first half goals. The Tartan Devils have entered every year of this new tournament (that started ahead of the 2016 US Open Cup), but entering this year’s competition, they had only one win in four years to show for it. Luckily for them, that win was all they needed to punch their ticket to the US Open Cup. In 2017, they received a first round bye, and because the federation shortened the qualifying tourney that year, their 3-1 road win over Aromas Cafe FC was enough to get in. This year, they picked up their second win, a 3-2 road win over Maryland side Steel Pulse FC.

San Juan FC
(USASA / UPSL)
AT
Colorado Rovers
(USSSA / Colorado Premier League)
Dick’s Sporting Goods Park (Field 8) – Commerce City, CO
Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Colorado Rovers host San Juan FC of Salt Lake City in the first ever meeting between the two clubs. Rovers are in second place, hot on the heels of fellow CPL (and USOC) combatant, FC Boulder Harpos. San Juan sit alone atop the UPSL’s Mountain Conference. The Rovers come into this game having a first qualifying round win over local opponents, Logroñes SC, by a 6-2 score; with one of their insurance goals coming from ex-MLS player Ritchie Kotschau. Rovers have not been in the tournament since 2014. San Juan FC come into this game after their first qualifying round win over IPS/Marathon Taverna 2-0, in their first attempt at qualifying.

LA Monsters FC
(USASA / SoCal Premier League)
AT
SC Trojans FC
(USASA / SoCal Premier League)
Orange County Great Park (Field 19) – Irvine, CA
Kickoff: 10:15 p.m.

LA Monsters of the SoCal Premier League and SC Trojans of the SoCal Premier League Division 2 take the field in the last of the all-Southern California contests of the round. Both teams are attempting to qualify for their first US Open Cup appearance.

The college-based Trojans, in their second consecutive attempt at qualifying, defeated Newport FC of the UPSL 4-1 in the first qualifying round. Marsuk Dilla opened his account with a double in as many minutes in the first half to seal advancement.

LA Monsters, in their fourth attempt to qualify (2016, 2018, 2019), defeated Valley United of the UPSL in the first round. The game-winner came in the 3rd minute from Edward Delgado Robles. LA Monsters has a mixed record in qualifiers against SoCal Prem opponents, with 1 win and 2 losses.