2025 US Open Cup

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying Preview: Six “Win & You’re In” games to determine final amateur entries in 110th tournament

December 6, 2024 by Chuck Nolan Jr.

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying schedule — Graphic: Frank Lanham

The final weekend of Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is upon us. 14 clubs were scheduled to face off on Saturday and Sunday to determine the final seven qualifiers to join the seven teams who secured their Open Cup spots on Nov. 16 and 17 as well as UPSL Spring Champions Soda City FC and 2024 National Amateur Cup winners New York Pancyprian Freedoms.

Unfortunately, one of this weekend’s games was called off when the Las Vegas Legends FC did not have enough players to field a team and informed Washington Athletic Club that they would forfeit Saturday’s “Win & You’re In” game in Seattle. As a result, Washington AC clinches a spot in the US Open Cup for the first time in club history and becomes the first Open Division Local club from Washington state to qualify in the Modern Era (1995-present).

Five of the remaining 12 clubs this weekend have never qualified for the Open Cup before, and one game, Laguna United FC vs. San Diego Internacional, is guaranteed to produce a team making its debut in the competition. The other four games feature at least one team who has previously qualified, with two of those contests featuring two teams who have previous Open Cup history.

The teams who have made the cut so far in the Open Division include:

CD Faialense (BSSL/USASA)
Harpos FC (CPL/USSSA)
New Jersey Alliance FC (UPSL)
New York Renegades FC (UPSL)
Southern Indiana FC (UPSL)
Virginia Dream FC (VSSL/USASA)
West Chester United SC (USLPA/USASA)
Soda City FC (2024 UPSL Spring Champions).
NY Pancyprian Freedoms (2024 National Amateur Cup Champions)

Follow TheCup.us on X (Twitter) @USOpenCup throughout the weekend for live updates from each game and links to live video streams (which will also be linked below).

Like millions of other users, we have also joined BlueSky. We will have live updates available there too.

Below you will find a brief preview of all six games:

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

Harbor City FC (UPSL)
vs.
FC America CFL Spurs (USSL/USSSA)
Melbourne High School; Melbourne, FL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YOUTUBE

Harbor City FC’s second attempt at Open Cup qualifying has them one win away from earning their first-ever berth in the tournament proper. Harbor City’s initial qualifying attempt last year was halted by the Spurs in the Third Round 1-0 on a Melvrik Fernandes goal in the 76^th minute.

While FC America CFL Spurs are officially qualifying out of the United States Soccer League, their entry in the UPSL play in the Florida Central division along with Harbor City. The clubs last faced each other in September, resulting in a 0-0 draw. Prior to that, FC America upended Harbor City 3-1 in the UPSL Florida Central playoffs for the Spring season, Sebastian Alvarez, Pedro Paulo Vieira, and Angel Moulton scored for the victors.

UPSL PLAYOFFS | FC AMERICA SPURS VS HARBOR CITY FC | 2024 Spring Season

Harbor City FC vs. FC America CFL Spurs | U.S. Open Cup | 3rd Round Qualifiers (2024)

Harbor City finished 4-1-3 in the UPSL Fall season. Derek Notardonato leads the team in the Fall season with four goals, followed by Mario Licor and Perrie Nascimeno with three apiece.

After a first-round bye, Harbor City blanked UPSL Florida Central rivals Deportivo Lake Mary FC 4-0. Derek Notardonato scored twice, with Perrie Nascimento and Gabe Shelton adding one each. In the Third Round, Harbor City cruised by another UPSL rival, Palm Beach Flames, 5-1. Notardonato and Nascimento led the way once again with three goals between them.

FC America CFL Spurs are one step away from repeating their successful qualifying effort in 2024. FC America allowed just one goal in its five qualifying games the past two years, with wins over Deportivo Lake Mary (8-0), Harbor City FC (1-0) and Leg-AZ World FC (4-1) in 2024 qualifying. FC America then gave USL League One side South Georgia Tormenta FC a tough time in the First Round, losing 1-0.

After a First Round bye, FC America CFL Spurs cruised by Kissimmee Soccer Club (UPSL) 6-0 in the second round. Angel Moulton and Micheil Russell Smith provided a pair of goals each, and Shandel Senior and Kwesi Caesar rounded out the scoring. Moulton, Senior and Caesar all played in FC America’s Open Cup debut last March. Spurs followed that win with a 2-0 triumph in the Third Round over USSL rivals Inter Nona Soccer Club.

FC America CFL Spurs are currently 5-0-1 in the USSL Elite Central Florida 2024 Fall season, and 8-0-2 in the UPSL Florida Central Fall season.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

FORO SC (UPSL)
vs.
Houston Regals SCA (USSL)
Prince of Peace; Carrollton, TX
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YOUTUBE

The Houston Regals SCA make the short trip north to Carrollton, Texas in search of their first ever berth in the Open Cup. In their way is FORO SC, one win away from their second straight trip to the Open Cup, where they became one of the upset darlings of the 2024 tournament.

FORO punched their 2024 Open Cup ticket with a 4-0 win over Alamo City SC (UPSL). In the Open Cup, FORO pulled off a memorable upset of Austin FC II of MLS NEXT Pro, scoring the tying goal in extra time stoppage time, then winning the penalty tiebreaker. FORO’s Kyle Bennett earned TheCup.us Player of the Round honors for his performance in the match.

FORO finished 6-2-2 in the 2024 UPSL Texas North spring season and reached the UPSL 2023 fall season final four. They finished 8-2-0 in the 2024 fall season, with Kyle Bennett leading the team in scoring with 10 goals.

FORO reached this point with a pair of 4-1 wins over clubs from the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. 2024 Open Cup hero Kyle Bennett once again came to the rescue in FORO’s 4-1 extra time win over D’Feeters Kicks SC (Dallas Soccer Association). With the game going into extra time at 1-1, Bennett caught fire, scoring three times in the extra session to advance FORO into the Third Round.

In the Third Round, FORO’s goal scoring was more spread out, as Manuel Lopez, Antonio Perez, Eric Gomez Silva and Hector Romero all contributed markers in the 4-1 win over StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club (Dallas Soccer Association)

Founded in 2009, the Houston Regals are attempting to run the Texas gauntlet in their Open Cup qualifying debut. In the Second Round, Houston needed extra time to knock off fellow Houstonians ASC New Stars 3-2. Yusuf Jabril and Victor Soria scored first half goals, and Samuel Cordero came through with what proved to be the winner eight minutes into extra time.

For their Third Round game, Houston traveled to San Antonio to face the UPSL’s 210 FC, and needed extra time once again in their 3-2 victory. Herbert Robinson, Victor Soria and Kevyn Montono all scored for Regals in a game that saw 210 FC force extra time with a 90th minute equalizer.

Regals played several years in the NPSL before moving to the United States Soccer League in 2021. Regals won the USSL National Championship in 2022, and more recently captured the 2024 Spring USSL Texas championship.

Washington AC (SRATS)
vs.
Las Vegas Legends FC (NISAN)
Nathan Hale High School; Seattle, WA
Washington AC qualifies for the 2025 US Open Cup via forfeit

Washington AC earned a spot in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for the first time in club history after the Las Vegas Legends informed them that they were forfeiting Saturday’s “Win & You’re In” match in Seattle.

“On our last weekend of the season during NISA Nation championships semi final and Finals we faced disciplinary issues with multiple players. Unfortunately that led us to not have enough players to field a team for the December 7th game,” said Las Vegas Legends owner and founder Meir Cohen. “This is very disappointing to some players and to the club as we were looking forward to make a run at the Open Cup as we did in 2022.”

“The Las Vegas Legends wishes WAC all the best in the First Round in March,” he added.

“It’s obviously not the way we wanted to qualify with our last game but there’s not much we can do about it,” said Washington AC head coach Mark Conrad. “We are excited to be in the tournament proper regardless.”

Washington AC comes from the Seattle Recreational Adult Team Soccer, the same league as 2024’s viral sensation Sharktopus FC. The teams have taken turns atop the SRATS, Washington AC winning the Winter and spring regular season and Sharktopus taking the summer section.

Washington AC opened 2025 qualifying with a 4-3 win over Bellevue Athletic FC (UPSL) with Christian Soto scoring twice. In the Second Round, WAC defeated Holac FC (UPSL) 2-1, with Eric Lagos scoring twice to erase a 1-0 deficit. Finally, Washington returned home to blank the UPSL’s Deportivo Rose City 3-0 with Lagos once again scoring twice and joined on the scoresheet by Christian Soto.

Washington Athletic Club entered the competition with some rich history as they were founded in 1930. With the forfeit win, WAC becomes the first Washington-based club to qualify for the Open Cup in the Modern Era through Open Division Local qualifying. The only amateur clubs to ever qualify for the tournament from Washington were from USL League Two and the NPSL.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

Chicago House AC (MWPL)
vs.
Tulsa Athletic (UPSL)
Langhorst Field; Elmhurst, IL
Kickoff: 2 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YOUTUBE

One Open Cup qualifying streak will come to an end as Tulsa Athletic makes the nine and a half hour trip to the Chicago suburb of Elmhurst, Ill. to face Chicago House AC for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup. House have qualified for the last two tournaments, while Tulsa have played in the last three, and would have made the cut in the COVID-cancelled editions in 2020 and 2021. Tulsa’s game with Chicago will be their second in two days, the day before they have a home game against the Arkansas Wolves in the UPSL Fall season playoffs.

In a unique twist to decide who would host, club owners Sonny Dalesandro (Tulsa) and Peter Wilt (Chicago) met halfway between the two cities in Union, Missouri to conduct a coin flip. Union City Administrator Jonathan Zimmermann flipped the coin and Chicago House AC came out winners.

While Tulsa Athletic made their Open Division qualifying debut this year, they are no strangers to the Open Cup. Tulsa has qualified for the Open Cup via the NPSL six times (2014, 2015, 2017, 2022, 2023, 2024). 2023 was their biggest year in the tournament, upsetting FC Tulsa in the Second Round to set up a Third Round date with Sporting Kansas City of MLS. Tulsa finished tied with Chicago House for the Open Division prize money as a result. Tulsa won the 2023 NPSL championship but left the league in the spring of 2024 due to differences with the league. Tulsa are debuting in the 2024 UPSL fall season and are off to a 8-1-0 start. Tulsa Athletic are also one of the founding teams in The League for Clubs, a USASA affiliated amateur league set to kick off in 2025.

After receiving a bye in Round 1 of qualifying. Tulsa have steamrolled their way to this weekend’s game. In the Second Round Tulsa blanked the UPSL’s FC Bartlesville Buffaloes 4-0. Mitchell Cashion scored twice, with the other goals coming from Jonathan Harris and a Bartlesville own goal. In the Third Round qualifying rookies Woodland Football Club were no match for the Open Cup veterans, as Tulsa dominated in an 8-0 win, Jacob Zamaron leading the way with a hat-trick.

House on the other hand have played three close games on their path to Sunday’s game. House opened their qualifying run on Oct. 5 with a 3-2 win over MWPL league-mates Edgewater Castle FC, Alejandro Mentasi scoring twice. Two early first half goals from Pau Mateo Chacon and Alejandro Mentasti held up for House in their 2-0 win over Chicago Strikers (UPSL) in the Second Round. The Third Round brought another close game for Chicago, a 2-1 victory over the UPSL’s Wisloka Chicago. Ricardo Avalos netted the game-winning goal in second half stoppage time. 2023 TheCup.us Player of the Round winner AR Smith Jr. scored House’s opening goal.

https://twitter.com/BrendanPloen/status/1858284939797553504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1858284939797553504%7Ctwgr%5E8f86b8204f05fec135cad817815837210d70e2ca%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fthecup.us%2F2024%2F11%2F18%2F2025-us-open-cup-qualifying-third-weekend-review-seven-teams-punch-ticket-14-more-advance-to-final-round%2F

Along with Inter San Francisco, House are one of two teams to play four qualifying games in this year’s qualifying tournament. Chicago House AC are the fourth team Peter Wilt has been associated with to play in the US Open Cup, the others being the Chicago Fire (founding president and general manager) Indy Eleven (team President) and Forward Madison (assisted in founding)

House are 2-0 in “Win & You’re In” games, having advanced to the tournament proper in 2023 and 2024.

In the 2023 US Open Cup, House upset USL League One’s Forward Madison 3-2 after extra time, also earning AR Smith Jr. TheCup.us Player of the Round honors. The win set up a Third Round match with Wilt’s former club, the Chicago Fire, who were victorious, 3-0. Last year, they were one-and-done after falling 3-0 at home against MNUFC2 (MLS NEXT Pro).

Chicago House finished with a 6-3-1 record in the 2024 MWPL Heartland Division 1 season.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

Miami United FC (UPSL)
vs.
Red Force FC (PFL)
Ted Hendricks Stadium; Hialeah, FL
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YOUTUBE

Red Force FC, four-time Open Cup qualifiers, will travel 45 minutes across Miami to Ted Hendricks Stadium in Hialeah to face five-time Open Cup qualifiers Miami United FC to determine who continues their Cup legacy next Spring, and who will have to wait another year to try again.

This is Miami United’s fifth time in qualifying through this version of the Open Division Local qualifying tournament, and they’ve been successful in their last three attempts (2020, 2023 and 2024). Prior to that, they qualified for the Open Cup three other times (2015, 2017, 2018) through the NPSL. Miami United’s 13 previous Open Division qualifying games have all been against opposition from Florida, they are currently on a 12-game qualifying winning streak with their only loss coming in their debut attempt in 2018. It is the longest streak since the tournament’s current format began in 2016.

After receiving a bye in the First Round, Miami United cruised past River Miami FC, powered by a hat-trick from Robertino Insua, and two additional goals from Alessandro Mazzetta. In the Third Round, the USSL’s O’Shea’s FC held Miami United to a 0-0 draw for 75 minutes, but Alejo Fernandez broke the deadlock and Robertino Insua scored twice in the final four minutes to keep Miami on track for the 2025 Open Cup.

Miami United finished the UPSL Fall season with a near perfect 12-0-1 record. Alessandro Mazzetta (11) and Robertino Insua (6) led the team in scoring

After a two-year absence, Red Force returned to Open Cup qualifying looking to repeat their past success. They’ve qualified four times (2013, 2014, 2017 and 2018) with the final two times coming under the current Open Division qualifying format. They have been eliminated three times by Florida Soccer Soldiers (2019, 2020 & 2022) Red Force finished 7-1-1 in the 2024 Premier Futbol League Premier Spring season.

After a First Round bye, Red Force defeated Naples United U-23s (SCSL) 3-2, getting goals from John Diaz, Santiago Fejardo and David Holguin. Red Force then booked their spot in the Fourth Round with a 4-0 win over the UPSL’s Pinecrest Premier FC. Former Forward Madison midfielder Danny Tenorio scored twice, and Steven Saballos and Santiago Fajardo added the other goals.

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC

2018 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

San Diego Internacional (UPSL)
vs.
Laguna United FC (UPSL)
Mission Bay High School; San Diego, CA
Kickoff: 9 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YOUTUBE

About a 75-minute drive down Interstate 5 separates Laguna United FC and San Diego Internacional, and one team will leave San Diego’s Mission Bay High School with their first ever US Open Cup berth.

Laguna United are on the verge of doing better than their first two qualifying attempts the past two years. Both years Laguna was eliminated by Capistrano FC, each time by 4-1 scores. The good news is Capistrano FC is now a professional club with NISA and they don’t have to worry about them. Laguna United finished 7-3-1 in the 2024 UPSL SoCal North spring season, and finished 7-2-1 in the Fall season, but lost 5-0 to Coachella Football Club in the SoCal North Conference playoff final. Michael Barraza led the team in the Fall season with 11 goals.

After receiving a First Round bye, Laguna mauled the shorthanded Trojans FC (UPSL) 14-0. Jacob Garcia, Andrew Bowles and Michael Barraza each had hat-tricks in the rout. Laguna’s Third Round game was much closer, with Sungho Yun and Uriel Morales scoring late in the second half to break a 1-1 tie created with Ryan Hubbard’s first half goal and securing a 3-1 win over Irvine FC of the UPSL.

San Diego Internacional are made their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. SDI finished 6-4-1 in the 2024 UPSL SoCal South Spring season and finished at 7-3-0 in the Fall season. Spencer Hoyle led the team in scoring for the fall season with eleven goals, followed by Luke Raley with eight.

After a bye in Round 1 of qualifying, SDI defeated UPSL rivals City SC San Diego 2-1 in the Second Round. Luke Riley and Garrett Heine scored in the first half, and SDI held off a comeback from City in the second half. In the Third Round, SDI survived a back-and-forth affair with Chula Vista FC of the Southwest Premier League for a 3-2 win. Marck Cruz Benito and Garrett Heine scored first half goals, and Cruz Benito assisted on Luke Raley’s 90th minute winner.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8
ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

International San Francisco (SFSFL/USASA)
vs.
Valley 559 FC (UPSL)
James P. Lang Field; San Francisco, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YOUTUBE

Inter are making their fourth qualifying attempt, having entered every year since 2022. Inter qualified in 2023 with a 5-1 win over BattleBorn FC, but failed to repeat that success last year, losing 4-2 to FC Folsom in the final round. Inter started in the SFSFL 3rd tier in 2021, winning promotion two seasons in a row to reach the Premier Division.

Inter got off to a winning start in their opening game, defeating SFSFL rivals SF Vikings SC 4-1 on Oct. 6. Former MLS & USL veteran Matt Fondy led the way with two goals. In the Second Round, Inter prevailed in a wild 5-3 extra time affair with JASA RWC (UPSL). Fondy once again led Inter with a hat-trick, and Sergio Laguna Jacob Castro also scored in extra time, where both teams scored three goals in the final two minutes of the extra session.

In their Third Round affair, Inter had an easier time with Real Galt FC (UPSL), coming away with a 4-1 win Javier Rivera Hernandez, Dylan Autran, Jack Callan and Adrien Argast. Inter are one of two teams to play four games in this year’s qualifying tournament, along with Chicago House AC.

Valley 559 FC had an easier time in their Second Round contest, rolling over Modesto City FC (NISA Nation) 7-0. Aaron and Andrew Huerta accounted for three and two goals respectively. 559 FC’s Third Round match was much tighter, Bay Valley Suns Sports Club (UPSL) played Valley to a 0-0 draw, with Mason Gonzales scoring in extra time to give Valley the win.

559 is the area code for Fresno, Calif. Valley 559 FC returned for their second attempt at Open Cup qualifying looking to finish what they failed to accomplish last year. In their debut last year,

Valley defeated Real San Jose 2-1 (USSSA/NSL) 2-1 and Bay Area United FC (NISA Nation) 4-1 before falling to FC Folsom (UPSL) 5-3. Valley 559 finished 9-1-0 in the 2024 UPSL Nor Cal South Spring season and reached the Final 8 of the UPSL Spring National playoffs. In the fall season they are 6-3-1.

Valley originally set to have back to back games this weekend, their game with Inter being preceded the day before with a UPSL Fall season playoff game versus Project 51O, the development team of Oakland Roots of the USL Championship. Valley 559 decided to forfeit the playoff game to focus their attention on the Open Cup qualifier.

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

November 21, 2024 by Dave Einhorn

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.”

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying Third Weekend Review: Seven teams punch ticket, 14 more advance to final round

November 18, 2024 by Josh Hakala

The third weekend of the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying tournament brought the number of confirmed qualifiers to nine.

Seven more teams punched their ticket to the 110th edition of the US Open Cup this weekend as they join the USASA Amateur Cup winners (New York Pancyprian Freedoms) and UPSL Spring champions (Soda City FC).

In addition, 14 other teams advanced to next month’s “Win & You’re In” matches which will ultimately complete the Open Division Local field for next year’s tournament. Those games are scheduled for the weekend of Dec. 7-8.

The teams who won through to a final qualifier range from debuting Harbor City FC to old hands like Miami United and the curious case of Tulsa Athletic, who were the winners of the NPSL but are no longer in the league and are thus seeking to qualify from scratch.

Five first time qualifiers, Southern Indiana FC, FC Faialense, Virginia Dream FC, New York Renegades and New Jersey Alliance FC will be looking to make a debutant flourish. On the other hand, Harpos FC and West Chester United SC are returning to the competition.

On Monday, the draw for the final round was announced (Date/Time/Venue TBA):

Home team listed first

Harbor City FC vs. FC America CFL Spurs
FORO SC vs. Houston Regals SCA
International San Francisco vs. Valley 559 FC
Washington Athletic Club vs. Las Vegas Legends FC
San Diego Internacional vs. Laguna United FC
Miami United FC vs. Red Force
Tulsa Athletic vs. Chicago House AC (host TBD)

Below you will find a brief recap of each game with the “Win & You’re In” matches including a full match report:

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16

ROUND 3

O’Shea’s FC (USSSA/USSL)
0:3
Miami United FC (UPSL)
Gaines Park; West Palm Beach, FL
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Andrew Torres-Blanco

Miami United FC are one step closer to qualifying for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for a seventh time after defeating O’Shea’s FC late into the second half 3-0. United was led by a brace from playmaker Robertino Insua and the opening goal provided by Alejandro Fernandez which earned the UPSL side a place in next month’s final round of the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2025 US Open Cup. A dominant second half prevented any chance of an O’Shea’s comeback.

While Miami United FC dominated most of the match, the locals showed resilience putting in a solid shift in defense as well as goalkeeper Franco Acerbi having a few heroic saves during various moments in the first half. O’Shea’s FC could have also gone up ahead in the dying minutes of the first half after a counter attack led to Miami’s defender Sebastian D’Angelo clearing the ball off the line, keeping the game scoreless just before halftime.

Despite Miami’s lack of efficiency in the first half, the visitors finally broke the deadlock in the 75th minute with winger Luis Peralta driving in a low cross for Rodriguez to tap in the far right corner. By then the hosts were not able to recover from the setback. Insua, who was dangerous throughout the match earned a foul near the box in the 81st minute scoring a free kick and later a penalty in added time after an impressive solo run that was won by Peralta.

ROUND 3

Harbor City FC (UPSL)
5:1
Palm Beach Flames SC (UPSL)
Melbourne HS; Melbourne, FL
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Taylor George

Melbourne High School hosted UPSL teams Harbor City FC and Palm Beach Flames SC on Saturday as both teams aimed to earn a spot the first US Open Cup berth in club history. Harbor City dominated most of the game, winning 5-1 to advance to next month’s “Win & You’re In” round (Dec. 7-8).

Harbor City scored three goals in the first half and one in the first three minutes of the second half to pull away from their UPSL rivals. Harbor City was led by a brace by Derek Nodardonato and goals from Perrie Nascimento, Gabriel Shelton, and Mario Licor.

Palm Beach Flames had chances of their own. In the first half, there was a handball in the Harbor City box, giving the Flames an opportunity to get a point on the board. However, Denari Watson missed just wide of the goal.

In the 71st minute, Nicholas Castellanos scored the Flames’ only goal to make it 4-1.

Tre Collins, Perrie Nascimento, Gabriel Shelton, and Derek Notardonato all had assists for HCFC.

ROUND 3

FC America CFL Spurs (USSSA/USSL)
2:0
Inter Nona SC (USSSA/USSL)
Lake Mary High School; Lake Mary, FL

By Christian Gomez

FC America CFL Spurs moved one step away from a second straight US Open Cup berth with a 2-0 win over Inter Nona SC at Lake Mary High School on Saturday. It was a battle of the two of the top teams from the United States Soccer League.

Victor Blanco of FC America would open the scoring in the 17th minute with a free kick goal. Blanco curled the ball from just under 30 yards out and into the upper 90.

Then, eight minutes later, the Spurs would use the momentum and add a second. Herod Geffrard would track down a ball on the right wing and just before the ball rolled past the end line and fired a low-driven pass to the center of the box where John Perpilus would blast it past the keeper to double the lead.

Inter Nona would fight for an equalizer in the second half but FC America’s defense, led by former University of Charleston goalkeeper Marc Torrado, would hold strong. It was the Spurs’ second shutout in a row and the fourth clean sheet in the club’s five qualifying games dating back to last year.

ROUND 3

Tulsa Athletic (UPSL)
8:0
Woodland Football Club (USCS/TSL)
Athletic Community Stadium; Tulsa, OK
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Tim Hanson

Tulsa Athletic’s Jacob Zamarron finished with a hat trick, and Tulsa exploded for eight goals in a dominating 8-0 victory over Open Cup newcomer Woodland (Kan.) Football Club on Saturday night at Hicks Park in Tulsa.

Zamarron scored his three goals in a stretch of 21 minutes to take a 1-0 Tulsa Athletic lead and extend it to 4-0 in the 57th minute of the game. Zamarron’s goals came in the 36th, 45th and 57th minutes.

Tulsa went in front early in the 13th minute when Ruben Torres scored the first goal for the green and yellow to give the home side a 1-0 edge before the three-straight goals from Zamarron.

Luis Flores, who helped lead Tulsa Athletic to the 2023 NPSL national championship with eight goals in the postseason, scored in the 63rd minute for a 5-0 margin.

Tulsa totaled three more goals in the final seven minutes of the contest. Joe Ruiz put the home side up 6-0 in the 83rd minute, and Abou Diallo scored in the 90th minute to extend the score to 7-0. Ruben Carrasco tallied the final Tulsa Athletic goal for the 8-0 victory.

Logan Campbell started in goal for Tulsa Athletic and earned the shutout win in his first appearance in US Open Cup qualifying. The shutout was the second consecutive for Tulsa Athletic in US Open Cup qualifying after the green and yellow defeated FC Bartlesville Buffaloes 4-0 in Round 2.

After receiving a double bye, Woodland FC was playing in their first ever qualifying game against the six-time Open Cup qualifiers in Tulsa Athletic.

Tulsa Athletic will now play Chicago House AC for a spot in the 2025 U.S. Open Cup set for the weekend of Dec. 7-8.

ROUND 3

210 FC (UPSL)
2:3
Houston Regals SCA (USSSA/USSL)
After Extra Time
STAR Soccer Complex; San Antonio, TX

By Jonathan Check

Following a pattern very similar to its win in the previous round, Houston Regals SCA defeated 210 FC 3-2 after extra time Saturday night at STAR Soccer Complex in San Antonio, Texas, to advance to the final round of qualifying for the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

Both teams created chances in the first half at different times but neither could break the deadlock. 210 started stronger with the first of its narrow misses coming in just the second minute off a corner, while Houston grew into the match and forced 210 goalkeeper Victor Villareal into multiple saves as the half wore on.

210 started the second half well and finally opened the scoring in the 50th minute from the penalty spot. A foul inside the box two minutes earlier paved the way for Lance Laing, whose professional career included stints with Minnesota United FC and FC Cincinnati in MLS, to slide the ball into the bottom right corner as he sent goalkeeper Jonathan Mauricio the wrong way.

Herbert Garcia tied the match up for Houston in the 65th minute, receiving the ball at the top of the 18-yard box and firing it into the bottom right corner from distance beyond Villareal’s reach.

Houston took its first lead of the night in the 80th minute as Villareal ran forward to snuff out a chance but couldn’t get to the ball before it was squared to Victor Soria, who calmly slotted the ball into the open net to make it 2-1 for the visitors. Soria scored to put his team up 2-1 in the previous round of qualifying as well, against ASC New Stars on Oct. 27.

Houston worked to see out its lead and nearly managed to do so before 210 grabbed an equalizer in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time, nearly the final moment of regulation. Keegan Woolley, who had come on as a substitute in the 90th minute, was able to follow up with a header after Mauricio parried an initial header and tried to tip it over his crossbar but failed to do so, giving 210 a thrilling late equalizer to force extra time.

That equalizer would prove to be in vain though as Houston retook the lead in the 95th minute and didn’t let it slip again. Kevyn Montaño brought down a cross from the left flank just a few yards from goal, taking a touch before firing it into the bottom left corner to round out the scoring in this seesawing match.

The result ended 210’s first foray into the qualifying rounds of the Open Cup, while Houston kept its own maiden voyage alive as it faces just one more hurdle to making the first round of the actual tournament in Spring 2025.

ROUND 3

Bay Valley Suns Sports Club (UPSL)
0:1
Valley 559 FC (UPSL)
After Extra Time
Las Positas College; Livermore, CA

By Otis Lyons

Valley 559 FC needed extra time, but ultimately advanced past the Bay Valley Suns 1-0 at Las Positas College in Livermore, Calif. Despite missing a penalty kick in regulation, Mason Gonzales was the hero, scoring in the 109th minute to propel Valley 559 FC to the final round of qualification next month (Dec. 7-8).

The first hour of the game was largely a chess match. As time went on, Valley 559 showed their quality, imposing themselves on the match throughout the second half. Following a series of silky team moves, Gonzales won a penalty for the visitors in the 77th minute. However, his attempt was poor, missing the left post by a couple feet, sending the match towards extra time.

Valley 559 continued to pile on pressure in extra time, the breakthrough seemingly inevitable. Victor Falck forced Bay Valley Suns’ goalkeeper Anthony Ayala into the best save of the night just before halftime of extra time; Ayala lunged to his left with one hand, thwarting Falck’s effort that was headed to the upper corner.

Despite Valley 559 combining well, the goal came off of a poor giveaway in the midfield. Gonzales did it all himself, shrugging his way past the final defender and beating Ayala with just 10 minutes to play before penalty kicks.

Just seven minutes later, Ayala became the villain. With the ball comfortably in his hands, the goalkeeper inexplicably shoved a Valley 559 attacker, earning a clear red card, forcing his team to mount the comeback with 10 men. At this point, the writing was on the wall for the Suns, and Valley 559 ran out deserving winners.

ROUND 3

Real Galt FC (UPSL)
1:4
International San Francisco (USASA/SFSFL)
Galt High School; Galt, Calif

By Marcos Lopez

In a Third Round matchup in the 2025 US Open Cup qualifying tournament, International San Francisco came away with a 4-1 victory over Real Galt FC in Galt, Calif. With the win at Galt High School, Inter San Francisco advances to the “Win & You’re In” round next month (Dec. 7-8) with the goal of returning to the competition for the first time since 2023.

The scoring kicked off very early for Inter SF in the 9th minute with a goal by midfielder Javier Rivera Hernandez.

Fellow midfielder Dylan Autran would put the visiting team up by two goals in the 29th minute.

After a foiled penalty taken by Inter SF, forward Lionardo Ruiz connected on a free kick to put Real Galt on the scoreboard.

But Inter SF stormed to a commanding win by the last whistle. Center-back Jack Callan scored in the 79th minute, while midfielder Adrien Argast scored in the 88th minute.

Inter SF will now advance to the 4th round, where they will compete against Valley 559 FC, after their win over Bay Valley Sun Sports Club, for the chance to play in the 2025 US Open Cup.

ROUND 3

Laguna United FC (UPSL)
3:1
Irvine FC (UPSL)
La Paz Sports Park; Laguna Night, CA

By Josh Hakala

In a battle of two SoCal UPSL rivals, Laguna United scored a pair of late goals to beat Irvine FC, 3-1 to advance to next month’s “Win & You’re In” round of the 2025 US Open Cup qualifying tournament.

Laguna United opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a goal from Ryan Hubbard who scored off a corner kick delivered by Andrew Bowles. Irvine would answer back in the 38th minute with an equalizer from Nelson Tabarez.

The match would remain tied at 1-1 until late in the second half when Bowles would create the go-ahead goal. Bowles sent in a cross which found Sungho Yun who scored what would prove to be the game-winning goal in the 77th minute.

Bowles would help put the game away in the 87th minute when he delivered a pass to Uriel Morales who went in on a breakaway and beat the keeper to seal the game. With the win, Laguna United is one win away from the club’s first-ever US Open Cup berth.

ROUND 3

Las Vegas Legends FC (USASA/NISA Nation)
2:1
Next Level Soccer (UPSL)
Faith Lutheran High School; Las Vegas, NV
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Dominick Delpech

The Las Vegas Legends defeated Next Level 2-1 in a hardfought match at Faith Lutheran High School. With the win, the Legends advance to next month’s “Win & You’re In” round as they attempt to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for the first time in team history.

Both teams had great scoring opportunities however the Legends had an overall dominance of the game in the first half.

In the 9th minute, Ethan Kovach played a through ball to Esequel Coronel who took the ball past the goalkeeper Alejandro Chavez and chipped it into the back of the net giving the Legends a 1-0 lead.

After the opening goal, the Legends kept the pressure on over the next 10 minutes. Ricardo Oliveira rattled the right post and moments later, Kovach went through on goal, but was denied twice by the Next Level defense.

In the 17th minute, Roberto Soto struck a rocket from outside the box and slotted it into the top corner giving the Legends a 2-0 lead.

Las Vegas continued to dominate, forcing Chavez to make multiple saves, but Next Level managed to pull one back against the run of play. Just before halftime, Joao Victor Alvarez Rocha tapped a loose ball into an open net to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

Chavez continued to keep Next Level in the game as Las Vegas kept the pressure on in the second half. But despite the offensive advantage, Las Vegas was unable to add to their lead.

ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

Southern Indiana FC (UPSL)
3:0
Dalton United (UPSL)
Green Valley Soccer Complex; New Albany, Ind.
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Hamish Munro

Southern Indiana FC cruised to a 3-0 victory over Dalton United FC on Saturday night in a “Win & You’re In” match in the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

All three goals came in the final 15 minutes of the match. Former pro Dylan Mares netted a brace, scoring in the 77th and 81st minutes, while Allain Bizozoa sealed the win with a stoppage time goal (91′).

With the win, SIFC became the first Open Division Local team from the Hoosier State to qualify for the US Open Cup since the Indianapolis-based Reggae Boyz did it back in 2005. It’s a milestone for a club from the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) that has only been around for 10 months.

FULL MATCH REPORT

ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

CD Faialense (BSSL/USASA)
3:1
FCY New York (UPSL)
Miller Field; Winthrop, Mass.

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

CD Faialanese secured a berth in the 2025 US Open Cup with a 3-1 victory over the UPSL’s FCY New York on a clear but cool night in Withrop, Mass. Faialanese qualifies for the US Open Cup for the first time in team history and becomes the first team from the Bay State Soccer League to qualify since Brockton FC United in 2022. Former UMass Lowell player Yanis Lakhlifi accounted for all three goals on the night for the home team.

Faialanese opened the scoring in the 26th minute after a long pass from midfield into the penalty area was lobbed to Lakhlifi who headed it past the FCY goalkeeper.

FCY equalized in the 36th minute after a long pass down the sideline was taken to the touchline, then across towards the goal where Witman Hernandez beat the Faialense goalkeeper.

Ten minutes into the second half Faialense regained the lead when Lakhlifi headed home a pass from the touch line at close range. Off the restart Faialense took advantage of a defensive lapse from FCY, as Lakhlifi stole the ball from a FCY defender and took it straight into the penalty area to easily beat the goalkeeper for a 3-1 lead.

Jacob Maddox and Gianluca Arlotti provided assists on Lakhlifi s first two goals.

FULL MATCH REPORT

ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

New Jersey Alliance FC (UPSL)
2:2
Steel Pulse FC (MSSL/USASA)
New Jersey qualifies, 4-2 on penalty kicks
Athenia Steel Park; Clifton, N.J.
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Michael Battista

New Jersey Alliance FC lost a lead in stoppage time, tied the game in extra time stoppage time, and won their “Win & You’re In” match against Steel Pulse FC, 2-2 (4:2 on PKs) to qualify for their first US Open Cup. Pulse, which traveled nearly 200 miles up I-95 for the match, fall short after book-ending their PK shootout with saved attempts.

The first 81 minutes showed two quality teams testing one another looking for an opening. That came when Emiland Elezaj scored NJ’s opening goal late in the second half from the ground. The Pulse responded in the 90+1’ when Stephen Jude’s shot was re-directed in net by a NJAFC player to force extra time in an already chaotic game.

The visitors, also seeking their first ever USOC appearance, took the lead just under 30 seconds into the second extra time half off an Emmanuel Olusesi banger from 30 yards out. Unfortunately for them, turnabout’s fair play as the hosts crashed the net once again in 120+1’ and Dorgeles Coulibably snuck a ball between the goalkeeper and post to equalize. The game, and the 60 fans watching from the cold Clifton, NJ bleachers, was heading to a penalty kick shootout.

Alliance keeper Yamil Macias made two huge saves in Rounds 1 & 4 while his team’s shooters were perfect. The UPSL side qualified for their first ever USOC and became the first local qualifiers to do so from the Garden State since 2017.

FULL MATCH REPORT

ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

West Chester United SC (USASA/USLPA)
2:1
Vereinigung Erzgebirge (USASA/USLPA)
Kildare’s Turf Field; West Chester, Pa.
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Dave Einhorn

West Chester United SC qualified for the US Open Cup for the third year in a row with a 2-1 win over league rival Vereinigung Erzgebirge (VE).

The two teams face off in competitions yearly, and the matches always promise passion, drama, and showmanship. The “Win and You’re In” round of the 2025 US Open Cup qualifying tournament proved to be precisely that, as both teams left everything on the field. The first half of play was dominated by West Chester, with a penalty goal by Ken Roby and a break away goal from Joshua Luchini.

The second half added more spice and sizzle as VE bundled the ball in through Derek Antonini for their only goal of the game. Later on, however, their momentum was taken out of their sails, as Kevin Smolyn saw red on a second yellow for dissent against the referee. VE did their best not only to create chances but also to keep the scoreline close. VE goalkeeper Steven Paul had an outstanding night, and the VE defense held on tight, including three goalline saves by defenders. It wouldn’t be enough, as West Chester United SC hung on for the win.

FULL MATCH REPORT

ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

Virginia Dream FC (VSSL/USASA)
2:1
Aegean Hawks FC (APL/USASA)
Meridian High School; Falls Church, Va.
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By George Diamond

Virginia Dream FC have qualified for their first ever US Open Cup following a tightly contested, physical match with Aegean Hawks FC. The Dream took the lead through a penalty kick in the 17th minute. Nicholas Likulia earned the foul and converted the kick. Despite an Aegean Hawks equalizer casting the issue into doubt, Mike Akinyoke found a go-ahead goal in the 89th minute which proved to be a winner.

The first half saw a majority of chances go Virginia Dream’s way but the Hawks showed dangerous flashes of possession that forced Dream defenders and goalkeeper Bill Hamid into action. Hamid, a former U.S. international and 2013 US Open Cup champion with D.C. United, made X saves to lead the defense.

The Dream was able to take the lead in the 17th minute through a penalty kick. Nicholas Likulia was fouled by Hawks defender Teshawn Johnson. The former UNLV forward stepped up to take it and converted, hitting the side netting of Franco Savastana’s net.

After a quickly taken set piece caught the Dream defense napping, Peter Omunyidde snuck a tap in past Bill Hamid to tie the game up in the 53rd minute.

FULL MATCH REPORT

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17

ROUND 3

Chicago House AC (MWPL/USSSA)
2:1
KS Wisloka Chicago (UPSL)
Redmond Park; Bensenville, IL

By Brendan Ploen

Chalk it up as another U.S. Open Cup classic. Chicago House AC 2, KS Wisloka Chicago 1.

Ricardo “Kikis” Avalos scored in the fourth minute of second half stoppage time Sunday night at Redmond Park as House fended off an electric atmosphere and a one-goal halftime deficit, as the visitors stormed back in the second half with two goals to advance in front of a raucous crowd of well over 200-plus fans.

The hosts, Wisloka, took the lead in the first half as former House forward-turned Wisloka star Wojciech Wojcik received a cross into the box and he struck a brilliant half-volley which found the upper net to make it 1-0. House tried to find an answer but the sides went into halftime with the hosts leading.

In the second half, House leveled the score in the 51st minute as they found success down the left-hand flank. AR Smith received a low-driven cross and kept his shot low to tie it at 1-1.

90 + 4’ GOAL, Chicago House AC! Oh the drama! 2-1, House. With under 30 seconds left, House wins it. Brilliant through ball. Calm finish. #USOC2025 pic.twitter.com/XhGdmld5I9

— Brendan Ploen (@BrendanPloen) November 17, 2024

After head coach Shannon Seymour made late substitutes, House found the latest of winners with less than 30 seconds remaining in normal time. Substitute Nico Williams found a cutting Avalos, who made no mistake and calmly finished, sending House fans into euphoria. The full-time whistle sounded moments later, and the celebrations continued.

“We always play (for) the badge,” Williams said. “The badge holds a lot of weight. We like to come out here and show ourselves every time we step onto the field. Shoutout to Wisloka, their fans are amazing. They make it very tough to play here. We (stuck) to what we know and the basics get us through.”

Seymour would’ve loved to see House win it earlier, but he knows advancing in the Open Cup no matter the cost, is all that counts.

“A stoppage-time winner? It never gets old for the club. Maybe from a coach and players’ perspective, we’d like to do it a little bit earlier, but that’s the House way,” Seymour said. “Grind it out with heart, see it out ’til the end and expect positive things.”

Third round qualifying round of the U.S. Open Cup between @ChicagoHouse_AC and Wisloka Chicago. 20 minutes in and no score so far. Story coming later for @usopencup. #USOC2025 pic.twitter.com/KmjSIwWohz

— Brendan Ploen (@BrendanPloen) November 17, 2024

While it wasn’t their day, Wisloka head coach Wojciech Piotrowski knows it’s an opportunity his club can further build upon.

“Two years ago, we could only dream of playing games like that as a club because we were around, but we were playing local leagues. Two years ago when we watched those games on YouTube, I wanted to be part of those games. Two years later with hard work, we have this atmosphere and it just shows that whatever we’re doing, we’re on the right track. Sooner or later, the hard work will defend itself.

ROUND 3

StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club (USASA/DSA)
1:4
FORO SC (UPSL)
Willow Springs Stadium; Lucas, TX
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Adam Uthe

FORO SC moved one step closer to their second US Open Cup appearance in as many tries after a comfortable 4-1 win over StrikerZ DFW. Manuel Lopez, Eric Gomez Silva, and Antonio Perez each provided a goal and an assist while the lone goal for StrikerZ came from second half substitute Oliver Hamby.

The game was fairly one sided from the start, with FORO dominating possession early and grabbing their first goal just seven minutes in. Eric Gomez Silva produced a lethal cut back pass from the goal line and Manuel Lopez did well to bury the shot. The 2024 US Open Cup entrants were in no hurry and StrikerZ offered little resistance until the 25th minute when a dangerous cross found its mark but failed to result in a shot on goal. Antonio Perez got his goal in the 40th minute and responded with an assist to Gomez Silva just two minutes later to give FORO a commanding 3-0 lead going into the break.

StrikerZ came flying out of the break in response and put FORO’s defense under pressure with a shot from the edge of the box that skimmed the crossed bar on its way over. They emptied their bench with substitutions in the 60th and 63rd minutes but failed to capitalize on their momentum. Oliver Hamby did manage to pull one back for StrikerZ when he pounced on an error in possession from FORO’s keeper, but Hector Romero made it 4 for FORO just three minutes later.

In the end, it was a thoroughly deserved result for FORO and head coach Michel Garbini was subsequently pleased with his team’s performance.

“We dominated the actions. Second half, I think we got a little bit tired … .but at the end of the day it was about the result. We got it.”

FORO SC advances to the final round of qualifying, where they will meet Houston Regals SCA to determine who qualifies for the 2025 US Open Cup in the spring.

ROUND 3

Washington AC (USASA/SRATS)
5:0
Deportivo Rose City (UPSL)
Shoreline Soccer Field; Shorline, WA
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Bruce Corrie

It wouldn’t be competitive soccer in Seattle without rain, fog and flaring tempers. Deportivo Rose City took the train up the I-5 corridor Sunday ahead of their match with dozens of fans making the journey with them. Rose City had just taken down Sharktopus FC in the previous round and much of the same energy was in the air. Players were warming up gleefully, young fans had their noisemakers as loud as they could get them, but unfortunately for the Portland side, WAC was ready to spoil the party.

Washington AC shut out the Rose City visitors 5-0 to advance to next month’s “Win & You’re In” round (Dec. 7-8). WAC are now one win away from qualifying for the tournament for the first time in club history.

Within the first five minutes, Washington Athletic Club gathered the ball down the left side of the pitch, worked around the Rose City right back and played the ball to the top of the D. The ball was quickly shifted out to the right inside of the box for Eric Lagos to put away handily making it 1-0. Lagos found another in the 12th minute in a similar fashion.

There were warning signs that this game would become physical and get out of hand. Over the first 20 minutes, tit-for-tat fouls were given on each side of the pitch for both teams; a few firm challenges, but nothing that warranted too much further thought. That was until the assistant referee caught Deportivo Rose City’s David Silva de Leon throwing a punch and the eventual spiral of his Portland side.

David was only shown a yellow as the head referee did not see the action. In the 23rd minute, Emanuel Grespan was put into the book for a horribly inconsiderate, crunching, challenge near the benches. Not three minutes later (26’), a free kick was called against Rose City just outside of their box to the right for WAC. Emanuel Grespan decided, while on a yellow, to boot the ball off into the accompanying field after the official began setting up the free kick process. It is simply perplexing behavior knowing you’re already on the edge in such an important match. By letter of the law he was booked again and sent off. They would never find their feet after this.

Washington Athletic Club didn’t ever really look phased by the gamesmanship or antics from Rose City. They “just want to play bro”, Goncalo Mendes was overheard saying as he chased a loose ball into the parking lot. A third goal came by WAC’s Christian Soto on a penalty kick, which gave them the 3-0 lead heading into halftime.

WAC started the second half up a man, clearly wanting to keep the ball for the rest of the game. It was ever so frustrating for Rose City. Forcing them to dive into tackles, forcing them to create issues of time delays and to pick apart the officials handling of the game when in reality most of the damage was self-inflicted.

Two more goals went in for Washington Athletic Club both scored by Adeseyi Adekoya, in the 75th and 88th minutes. Only for the game to conclude on a straight red card for the Rose City captain putting the visitors down to nine men and the official to call the game at that point.

ROUND 3

Red Force FC (USASA/PFL)
4:0
Pinecrest Premier SC (UPSL)
Kendall Soccer Park; Miami, FL

By Matthew Bunch

Red Force FC started early and finished strong at Kendall Soccer Park on Sunday night, besting Pinecrest Premier SC 4-0 to advance to the final round of qualifying for the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

The key moment of the match was the hard foul in the 33rd minute by Pinecrest Premier’s Sebastian Ayllon in front of his team’s bench. After a lengthy discussion between the head referee and assistant referee, Ayllon was shown red.

Red Force built a solid lead before the red card, thanks to a curling shot from Steven Saballos in the 12th minute – an effort from the right corner of the 18-yard box into the upper-left corner of the goal – and a goal from Danny Tenorio ten minutes later.

Tenorio made it a brace in the second half, and Santiago Fajardo received a loud cheer when he provided Red Force its final goal of the night.

Pinecrest Premier’s best chance at a consolation goal came in the 88th minute, but the shot from Manuel Calvo hit the near post, and Christian Carranza skied an opportunity with Red Force keeper Fabio Orjuela on the ground.

Red Force now awaits its opponent in next month’s “Win & You’re In” match (Dec. 7-8) with an opportunity to qualify for the US Open Cup for the fifth time.

ROUND 3

San Diego Internacional (UPSL)
3:2
Chula Vista FC (SWPL/USSSA)
Mission Bay HS; San Diego, CA
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Marybeth Zmuda

San Diego International FC’s 3-2 victory brought Chula Vista FC’s road to the US Open Cup tournament to a close on Sunday. CVFC has qualified for the esteemed tournament three times previously and were hoping for a win in order to propel the team closer to a fourth time. Now, San Diego will look to begin an Open Cup legacy of their own as the Open Cup qualifying debutants advance to next month’s “Win & You’re In” round (Dec. 7-8).

The match was intense and exciting for the full 90 minutes and San Diego Inter got the scoring started with a bang in the 7th minute. Inter’s Marck Cruz Benito blasted a rocket through a mob of Chula Vista defenders and past keeper Ricardo Vilalva to light up the scoreboard early.

Not to be outdone, CVFC followed up with one of their own a mere four minutes later. SDIFC’s keeper Evan Stoll was a good distance off his mark allowing Chula Vista FC’s resident scoring machine, Jordan Rojas, to pop one over the line as well to put a matching 1 on the scoreboard.

This high intensity remained evenly distributed through the first half. Both sides created many scoring opportunities but both keepers were equally as intense and kept things even until the 44th minute. Just before halftime, San Diego Inter’s Garrett Heine maneuvered past Chula Vista’s captain Abraham Rodriguez and slotted the ball into the net to give his side a short-lived one goal advantage.

But Chula Vista would respond again swiftly just two minutes into first half stoppage time. Rojas grabbed a brace and the teams headed off for the halftime break.

The second half was equally as action packed but with different momentum as Inter turned up the heat and showed the nearly capacity crowd that winning was what they came to do.

Due to a technicality, Chula Vista’s usual starting keeper, Oliver Holt didn’t come on until the second half started. This personnel change would prove to be pivotal as SD Inter showed no mercy showering Holt with a barrage of shots. Howevere, Holt was up to the task with some masterful saves keeping the match knotted until the last minute of play.

Cruz Benito, who had just re-entered the pitch after experiencing some cramping, took the ball down the left side looking for someone in the middle. Benito spotted teammate Luke Raley and beautifully centered the ball. Raley was able to get the ball past CVFC’s Holt and give them the lead one final time. Chula Vista was unable to respond before the official blew the final whistle and their 2025 Cup hopes were dashed with a final score of 3-2.

ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

Harpos FC (USSSA/CPL)
2:0
Azteca FC (USSSA/CPL)
Broomfield County Commons Park; Broomfield, CO

By Andrew Mosier

Harpos FC exorcized its U.S. Open Cup qualifying demons Sunday, topping bitter league rivals Azteca FC 2-0 at Broomfield Commons.

The win was Harpos’ first over Azteca in Open Cup qualifying in its fifth attempt with all four previous meetings decided by a single goal. Azteca, who has qualified for the Open Cup four times, entered Sunday’s match 18-0-0 against teams from Colorado in Open Cup qualifying.

With the win, Harpos return to the tournament proper for a fourth time, equaling Azteca’s Open Cup appearances.

FULL MATCH REPORT

ROUND 4 (“WIN & YOU’RE IN”)

New York Renegades FC (UPSL)
1:1
Lansdowne Yonkers FC (EPSL/USASA)
New York qualifies 4-1 in PK shootout
SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex; Central Islip, N.Y.
FULL MATCH VIDEO (YOUTUBE)

By Michael Anderer

In the end, the Renegades qualified for the US Open Cup for the first time in club history with a 4-1 win in the shootout after a 1-1 draw.

It would be former pro Daryl Kavanagh that would break the deadlock between the two sides in the 78th minute. A Lansdowne corner kick would find the head of its target Danso. Danso nodded the ball back across the goal area where Kavanagh was standing unmarked allowing him to beat goalkeeper Eric Edwards with a strong right-footed shot from close range.

Less than 15 minutes to play and it would seem like the visitors from Yonkers might add another Open Cup appearance. The Renegades would again use their bench and bring on Alex Palais in the 80th minute and he would have an immediate impact. A poor turnover by Lansdowne in the middle third of the field would allow New York to connect two passes to Palais wide on the right side with time and space. Palais found the head of attacker Jeison Solano for the equalizer in the 82nd minute.

Tempers would flare in the 113th minute after Renegades goalscorer, Solano, was issued a violent conduct red card. The glory of his earlier shining moment was dulled by his lack of discipline late in the affair forcing his team to play a man down for the last seven minutes plus injury time in an attempt to get the game into penalty kicks. The strength and depth of the Renegades would prove to be enough to carry the game to the end of the extra time periods and the winner would come from the PK spot.

Just as the home side showed their advantage in the regulation play they would also show it in the shootout. Each Renegades shooter calmly approached the area and scored their chances beating DiMarco despite the keeper diving the correct way in two of the four attempts. Lansdowne’s Kyle Galloway put his attempt over the bar and after Patrick Burns scored to quiet the enthusiastic home crowd, early hero, Daryl Kavanaugh, would have his shot saved by Eric Edwards giving the Renegades a chance to win on their next attempt.

The pressure would once again be on Oscar Rivas Romero, the player who had his earlier PK attempt saved by DiMarco, but when the game was on the line Rivas Romero delivered and the Renegades carried the day 4-1.

FULL MATCH REPORT

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: NY Renegades qualify for first USOC after PK shootout win

November 18, 2024 by Michael Anderer

The New York Renegades celebrate after beating Lansdowne Yonkers 4-1 in a PK shootout (after a 1-1 draw) to clinch a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Michael Anderer

With a qualifying spot in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup on the line, both the visiting team, Lansdowne Yonkers FC and hosts, New York Renegades were ready to play a physical game with elevated intensity. The game would end in a penalty kick shootout but that scoreline does not tell the full story.

In the end, the Renegades qualified for the US Open Cup for the first time in club history with a 4-1 win in the shootout after a 1-1 draw.

Within the first two minutes of the match, the play would go from end to end with both sides trading early corner kicks. At first glance the teams showed themselves as evenly matched but it quickly became apparent that Lansdowne relied heavily on the play of defenders Musa Bala Danso and Jack Mulhare. The two were often forced to defend in one-v-one situations. When the New York attack could find overloads, goalkeeper Daniel DiMarco was up to the task.

https://twitter.com/opencup/status/1858315868372926937

The teams would settle in and the Renegades would prove to be the stronger side, constantly winning the midfield battles and creating chances. New York’s best chance to take control of the game came in the 29th minute. A ball over the top would leave Renegades striker, Rances Reneau Bardales, in a foot race with Danso. A foot race that Reneua Bardales would win leading to a one-v-one against the goalkeeper. What, at first look, appeared to be a clean save by DiMarco would result in a penalty kick call by head referee, Gurkan Dolugan. Oscar Rivas Romero would take the spot kick, but he was unable to put it past the diving netminder. The teams would end the first half knotted up 0-0 despite three big chances including the penalty kick that was wasted by the Renegades.

Renegades head coach Christian Turizon would make his first change at halftime displaying the obvious advantage of his team depth bringing in Matthews Carriel for Milton Campos. Lansdowne Yonkers FC head coach Matt Kane, would counter the move by replacing Liam Walsh with veteran player Daryl Kavanagh. Kavanagh, who played professionally for a number of years in his native Ireland, came into an advanced midfield role to both offer more attacking options but also to help control some of the possession for Lansdowne.

It would be Kavanagh that eventually broke the deadlock between the two sides in the 78th minute. A Lansdowne corner kick would find the head of its target Danso. Danso nodded the ball back across the goal area where Kavanagh was standing unmarked allowing him to beat goalkeeper Eric Edwards with a strong right-footed shot from close range.

Less than 15 minutes to play and it would seem like the visitors from Yonkers might add another Open Cup appearance. The Renegades would again use their bench and bring on Alex Palais in the 80th minute and he would have an immediate impact. A poor turnover by Lansdowne in the middle third of the field would allow New York to connect two passes to Palais wide on the right side with time and space. Palais found the head of attacker Jeison Solano for the equalizer in the 82nd minute.
The score was 1-1 at the end of regulation and the teams would have to decide the game in extra time each delivering chances to seal the victory but neither side could find the back of the net.

Just as the homeside showed their advantage in the regulation play they would also show it in the shootout. Each Renegades shooter calmly approached the area and scored their chances beating DiMarco despite the keeper diving the correct way in two of the four attempts. Lansdowne’s Kyle Galloway put his attempt over the bar and after Patrick Burns scored to quiet the enthusiastic home crowd, early hero, Daryl Kavanaugh, would have his shot saved by Eric Edwards giving the Renegades a chance to win on their next attempt.

“Our boys are hungry and they want to show the nation why we feel that we can be amongst the best amateur teams on the East Coast,” said New York Renegades head coach Christian Turizo. “The game showed our grit and ability to grind out these games.”

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: Harpos FC back in USOC after handing rival Azteca FC rare loss

November 18, 2024 by Andrew Mosier

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

Harpos FC exorcized its U.S. Open Cup qualifying demons Sunday, topping bitter league rivals Azteca FC 2-0 at Broomfield Commons.

Halftime substitutes Jack O’Brian and Adam Mickleson scored to put Harpos back into its fourth tournament proper after a four-year hiatus. Harpos last qualified for the 2020 tournament, which was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The win was Harpos’ first over Azteca in Open Cup qualifying in its fifth attempt with all four previous meetings decided by a single goal. Azteca, who has qualified for the Open Cup four times, entered Sunday’s match 18-0-0 against teams from Colorado in Open Cup qualifying.

Harpos started the Colorado Clássico on the front foot, when Baptiste Debuire took advantage of some indecisive passing from Azteca defenders in the opening minutes of the match, winning a 50-50 ball 20 yards from goal. Debuire was unable to capitalize on the gift, putting the ball just over the crossbar.

Azteca began to wrestle back control of the match around the quarter-hour mark, calming the frantic pace of the match that favored Harpos by taking control of the midfield. Breaden Jenkins had Azteca’s first and best opportunity of the half in the 16th minute, smashing a 30-yard shot into the upper corner after Harpos failed to fully clear one of Azteca’s three first half corners. With a good line of sight on the shot, Harpos goalkeeper Joel Chavez managed to get across his goal and spectacularly plucked the ball from the top corner to keep the score level.

The remainder of the half turned into trench warfare, with neither team able to mount a sustained attack for the remainder of the half as tempers and the referee began to be tested between the two overly-familiar sides. With play at a stalemate, both sides tinkered tactically during the interval, which included the introduction of O’Brian and Mickleson for Harpos.

“We went into the half knowing we needed some more pace out wide. Adam Mickleson gave us that pace and coverage in the back where we were exposed in the first half,” said Harpos managing director, Johnny Freeston.

Mickleson made his presence felt immediately in the second stanza, Harpos’ first attack of the second half came through Mickleson down the right flank. After turning the corner past a chasing defender, Mickleson drove a low cross to the top of the goal box, finding the streaking O’Brian unmarked eight yards from goal. O’Brian, a recent addition to the Harpos squad, tucked the ball back inside the far post to put Harpos up 1-0.

After nearly half-an-hour of bogged play as Harpos kept numbers behind the ball to fend off the waves of Azteca players coming forward, the speedy Mickleson doubled Harpos’ lead in the 76th minute off a Maradona-esque run through the stabbing Azteca defense that started on his own side of half. After outpacing one defender on the right flank and beating another defender in the penalty area before turning towards goal. Mickleson went around one final defender before going in on Azteca goalkeeper Gerardo Aguilar. An off-balance Mickelson awkwardly wrong-footed Aguilar, who helped Mickleson’s shot over the line to make it 2-0 Harpos.

“I got the ball around midfield and looked up and saw I had some space. I beat a couple guys and knew I had the pace to get around the last defender and go in on goal,” Mickleson said. “I got a little lucky putting it off the ‘keeper’s foot but I’ll take it.”

With the win, Harpos returns to the tournament proper for a fourth time, equaling Azteca’s Open Cup appearances. Meanwhile, Azteca’s 13-game unbeaten streak in the competition was snapped, along with its 12-game road winning streak

“This win gets us back where we want to be,” Freeston said. “We’ve completely rebuilt the team since 2020. We have the talent, and everyone has bought in to what we are doing. We know what it takes to make a run in the Open Cup. We’ve done it before. I think with this team we can do it again.”

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: Late goal, PK shootout win propel NJ Alliance to first USOC

November 17, 2024 by Michael Battista

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

On a windy night in Clifton, New Jersey Alliance FC and Steel Pulse FC battled like two teams near the top of their respective tables. Stoppage time goals by both teams forced a penalty kick shootout after 120 minutes with the score tied 2-2. In the end, Alliance keeper Yamil Macias made two huge saves to give his team the win, 4-2 in PKs, and qualify for their first ever US Open Cup tournament in 2025.

NJAFC are the first Open Division Local team from the Garden State to qualify for the US Open Cup since FC Motown in 2017.

NJAFC head coach Robert Kruk said after the game that he knows his group is up for playing in America’s national soccer tournament..

“They’re looking for a new challenge,” Kruk said following the PK shootout. “It’s so hard in the UPSL because we’ve been on top of that league and, again, in the national tournament (and) in the playoffs, it’s one game. It’s a card here, a goal here changes everything and we haven’t again.

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“New competition, new faces, new teams, it’s always a challenge to play and guys get up for it.”

On the other side, Steel Pulse manager Mike Pieterson was proud of his group reaching this far. They have a league playoff semifinal coming up and state cups, including the Maryland Stewart Cup which could lead to a possible National Amateur Cup in 2025.

“We’re always proud of our work, especially when we give it our all,” Pieterson said. “This is an improvement from the past. So what we’re gonna do is make some kind of introspective, look to be able to plan and come back a little bit harder.”

Saturday night’s match at Athenia Steel Park was the third straight home match for NJ Alliance, and a devoted crowd of 60 fans came out for the monumental game. The home side had reached the final round of qualifying last year but fell in penalty kicks to Vereinigung Erzgebirge on the road. Meanwhile Steel Pulse, playing in their first road game of qualifying, had never played in a “Win & You’re In” match prior to Saturday.

Neither team could find the back of the net in the first half. The Pulse had the edge in the first 20 minutes, forcing keeper Macias to make a few saves and jump on loose balls in the box. The visitors weren’t scared to be aggressive either, fouling NJ Alliance in their own end multiple times and giving the home side free kicks in dangerous spots. But these chances were culled for the most part.

NJAFC took the momentum in the last twenty minutes of the half, racking up corner kicks but not getting many dangerous looks on net.

The second half began much like the first half did. NJ was playing long balls, probably being the more tactical of the two united. Pulse was being more aggressive. The visitors had an issue when Brandon Williamson went down with a non-contact injury, holding the back of his left calf.

Manager Mike Pieterson noted after the match that Williamson wasn’t 100% coming into the game, and with his team missing some players, he might have aggravated something trying to push himself. Still, the game was open for anyone to win.

The game left the rails in the 82nd minute when Emiland Elezaj scored the opening goal for the home side. Brian Canales sent a low ball towards the goal, which got past a diving Patrick Tettah and hit off a sliding Elezaj. The ball didn’t have enough momentum and Elezaj scooted on the ground quickly to tap it in the net for the 1-0 lead. It was Elezaj’s third straight qualifying match with a goal and his fourth overall goal of qualifying.

FINAL
NJ Alliance 2 (4)
Steel Pulse 2 (2)

Two saves in the shootout and NJAFC IS US OPEN CUP BOUND!#USOC2025 #RBNY #NYCFC pic.twitter.com/awOyLZ8hCS

— Michael Battista (@MichaelBattista) November 17, 2024

With time winding down, Alliance tried to see the game out as best they could. The home side made two subs, though one wasn’t initially planned. Elezaj went to ground following a play and had to be helped off the field in the 86th minute, with early “reports” saying the Albania native broke his toe. Still, overall Alliance was being defensive and earned two yellow cards after the goal.

In the second minute of stoppage time, the Pulse were still driving and a highball found its way to Stephen Jude on the left side. He shot on target towards the right post, but NJAFC’s Kelvin Preciado intercepted it and headed the ball into his own net. Officially speaking, since Jude’s first shot was on target the goal is credited to him.

Regardless, Steel had a Pulse. Right after the goal, Steel’s keeper Tettah ran to midfield and called to be subbed off and replaced with Justin Appler. The visitors nearly got the game winner in the sixth minute of stoppage time when a cross from the right side was just a few steps ahead of an attacker. Instead, the game went to extra time.

Normally, allowing a game-tying goal would crush a team. But NJAFC head coach Robert Kruk was, admittedly, up for the challenge.

“I think it was a blessing. We had a semi final in the UPSL (that) we lost last weekend. It was a tight one. We could have won and we would have had to play a midweek game like Thursday.” Kruk explained. “I think that was a blessing. It gave us extra motivation to not end this good season, where we were building and building and building to get something out of it… We had a good heart to heart at the 90, then a great even heart to heart at the 15, and sometimes you just need a little bit of luck.”

The first 15 minutes of extra time went by as normal. A high Alliance shot hit off the football woodwork while a Pulse shot went just wide left of the post. Meanwhile, the home DJ was put on thin ice for continuously playing things during the game. All very normal things for lower division soccer.

In the second extra time period, it took 24 seconds for Pulse to break through. Running up the right side after kickoff, the visitors crossed in and shot but were blocked by a defender. The ball went back into play where Stephen Jude recovered it and passed off to Emmanuel Olusesi. His shot from 30 yards out arched between the post and an unready but jumping Macias to make it 2-1.

With their backs to the wall, the Alliance pushed forward. Yet another Pulse foul gave NJAFC a free kick in a dangerous spot, which was shot on target but saved in the 111th. With about five minutes to go Alliance made two subs in a last ditch effort to change the strategy. The team earned two corners but neither were very threatening.

On a last ditch play, beginning with a quick restart at midfield off a Pulse foul, NJ sent the ball to the right side before passing to the middle and finding Preciado. The player who caused the game to go to Extra Time helped extend it further, when he passed off to Dorgeles Coulibably on the right side of the box. A right footed shot as he slid to ground went between the post and diving keeper to once again tie the game.

“I was waiting for this goal because I always score when I play, always, when I say always, I always score,” Coulibably said afterwards. “It was amazing to score in the last minute of the game. I’m very happy.”

With momentum on their side, Alliance went into the shootout and made their first attempt. Pulse’s Olusesi, the goal scorer from extra time, stepped up for his attempt, took a few steps back, and proceeded to do a stutter run for about five seconds before his shot was saved by Macias. The next two rounds were perfect before Konrad Rodzeń converted for NJAFC. On a match point attempt, Diarra Zoumana’s shot was saved by Macias and the Alliance officially qualified for the tournament, 2-2 (4:2 on pks).

With his team qualifying for the USOC, coach Kruk was pretty open to playing anyone come March.

“Give us anybody. If we could get an MLS NEXT Pro team it would be great because you’re playing a name,” he said, unsure of what the format will be next year. “But give us anybody, we’ll play you anytime.”

MATCH BROADCAST

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: Mike Akinkoye’s late winner sends Virginia Dream to first USOC

November 17, 2024 by George Diamond

Virginia Dream FC celebrates after defeating the Aegean Hawks 2-1 to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Virginia Dream FC

Things got going early on as Savastana had to make a vital save in the 4th minute to keep the Dream off the board. Akinkoye recovered the ball in midfield and found Angel Chavez on the wing. The midfielder beat a Hawks defender and crossed into the box, finding Murdoch whose low shot was blocked by the legs of Savastano.

Dream was able to take the lead in the 17th minute through a penalty kick. Nicholas Likulia was fouled by Hawks defender Teshawn Johnson. The former UNLV forward stepped up to take it and converted, hitting the side netting of Franco Savastana’s net.

Unfortunately, Likulia was forced off through an injury in the 30th minute with Luis Aguilar coming on in relief.

In first half stoppage time the Hawks nearly found an equalizer. Sulli Dainkey’s cross into the Dream box forced a dangerous defensive header, winning a corner for the Hawks. The inswinging delivery came close to seeing a Dream defender score an own goal but was narrowly cleared away. The first half ended shortly after.

The Hawks almost equalized only a few minutes in the second half.

A bad back pass from Roschon Panton gifted a chance to the Hawks. Peter Omunyidde anticipated the mistake and was there to win the ball. His close-range shot forced a reaction out of Bill Hamid but the Dream won possession back on the corner.

Savastano came up spades for the Hawks in the 52nd minute after a beautiful sequence from the Dream resulted in an open shot on net from Asparah Slavov, but the former University of Chicago man was up to the task.

After a quickly taken set piece caught the Dream defense napping, Peter Omunyidde snuck a tap in past Bill Hamid to tie the game up in the 53rd minute.

In the 72nd minute the Hawks thought they had taken the lead with another goal from Omunyidde but it was called back due to offside.

After a period where the Dream began to dominate, they finally found a winner in the 89th minute. Mike Akinyoke volleyed home a half-cleared cross to score the goal that qualified Virginia Dream for their first ever US Open Cup.

“It’s a very proud feeling to be officially a part of the oldest soccer competition in our country,” said Dream head coach CJ Taylor. “Achieving milestones as a club is something we do not take lightly and we are extremely hungry to compete in the professional scene in 2025.”

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: CD Faialense qualifies for first time on Yanis Lakhlifi hat trick

November 17, 2024 by Chuck Nolan Jr.

CD Faialense celebrates after defeating FCY New York 3-1 to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: CD Faialense

Faialanese opened the scoring in the 26th minute after a long pass from midfield into the penalty area was lobbed to Lakhlifi who headed it past the FCY goalkeeper

FCY equalized in the 36th minute after a long pass down the sideline was taken to the touchline, then across towards the goal where Witman Hernandez beat the Faialense goalkeeper.

Jacob Maddox and Gianluca Arlotti provided assists on Lakhlifi s first two goals.

In the remaining 35 minutes Faialense were able to keep FCY from making any serious attempt at clawing their way back into the game.

“We’re honored to have qualified for the US Open Cup as an amateur team,” said CD Faialense head coach Paul Correia. “This is the perfect way to close out a great year and all credit goes to the players for their commitment, selflessness and quality. A heartfelt thank you as well to CD Faialense who are amazing sponsors and to Mass Soccer for their continuous support.”

The win caps off a very successful season for Faialense, which saw them finish atop the 2024 Bay State Soccer League Division 1 table with a 13-3-2 record, their second straight year they have won the league title.

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: Late goals from Dylan Mares sends Southern Indiana FC to first USOC berth

November 17, 2024 by Hamish Munro

Southern Indiana FC celebrates after defeating Dalton United 3-0 to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Southern Indiana FC

Southern Indiana FC cruised to a 3-0 victory over Dalton United FC on Saturday night in a “Win & You’re In” match in the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

All three goals came in the final 15 minutes of the match. Former pro Dylan Mares netted a brace, scoring in the 77th and 81st minutes, while Allain Bizozoa sealed the win with a stoppage time goal (91′).

With the win, SIFC becomes the first Open Division Local team from the Hoosier State to qualify for the US Open Cup since the Indianapolis-based Reggae Boyz did it back in 2005. It’s an milestone for a club from the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) that has only been around for 10 months.

The first half was a tactical battle with Southern Indiana controlling possession, but Dalton had their moments, including a couple of good chances—most notably a missed 1-v-1 opportunity in the 18-yard box. Despite some scrappy crosses from Dalton off set pieces, the match remained scoreless at halftime, with neither side able to break through. Dalton’s defense held firm, but they struggled to create consistent pressure on Southern Indiana’s goal.

Southern Indiana’s persistence paid off in the second half, as Dalton struggled to capitalize on their chances and defend against the home team’s counterattacks.

The second half saw Dalton come out with renewed energy, but their offensive efforts lacked sharpness. In the 77th minute, Mares capitalized on a corner kick rebound, driving the ball into the net to give Southern Indiana the lead. Mares, one of the team’s top scorers, has played for four different professional clubs since 2014, most recently with nearby Louisville City FC (USL Championship).

Just four minutes later, Mares struck again, finishing a well-executed team move with a powerful shot into the back of the net. As Dalton pushed forward to try and recover, they left themselves vulnerable, and Bizozoa made a well-timed run to score in the 91st minute, completing the 3-0 victory.

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After the game, Southern Indiana’s interim head coach Nick Stirrett talked about his team’s winning mentality in the second half.

“We talked about championship habits and managing the ebbs and flows of the game … just to believe in what we’ve trained and talked about all season, and to lean into those championship habits.”

“To do this in 10 months, we’ve been around for only 10 months, to do it that quickly,” said Stirrett about his club clinching its first US Open Cup berth. “I’m thrilled for the organization and for Southern Indiana – this whole organization has been wonderfully supportive.”

Southern Indiana is trying to prove that success in soccer isn’t reserved for big cities. In a region on the border with Kentucky, this emerging club is aiming to show the world that a passionate, supportive community is all it takes to build a competitive team. And next spring, they will have a chance to face off against professional teams in the 2025 US Open Cup.

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying Preview: Third weekend of action features 7 “Win and You’re In” matches

November 16, 2024 by Chuck Nolan Jr.

Photo by Gary A. Vasquez – Imagn Images | Graphic by Phil Naegely

Twenty-six clubs will battle it out to determine who moves on to the final round on Dec. 7 and 8, and another 14 will engage in “Win and You’re In” contests this weekend in the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. This weekend’s winners will join UPSL spring champions Soda City FC and 2024 National Amateur Cup winners New York Pancyprian Freedoms as part of the 2025 US Open Cup field.

Of the 14 clubs in “Win and You’re In” games this weekend, nine have never qualified for the Open Cup, and three of the games are guaranteed to produce clubs that will be making their Open Cup debut.

Follow TheCup.us on X (Twitter) @USOpenCup throughout the weekend for live updates from each game and links to live video streams (which will also be linked below).

Like millions of other users, we have also joined BlueSky.

Below you will find a brief preview of all 21 games:

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16

ROUND 3

O’Shea’s FC (USSL)
vs.
Miami United FC (UPSL)
Gaines Park; West Palm Beach, FL
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Miami United travel two hours up the coast looking to move one step closer to their sixth Open Cup birth, while host O’Shea’s FC will hope to celebrate a victory at the pub they’re named after.

After receiving a bye in the First Round, Miami United cruised past River Miami FC, powered by a hat-trick from Robertino Insua, and two additional goals from Alessandro Mazzetta.

This is Miami United’s fifth time in qualifying through the Open Division, and they’ve been successful in their last three attempts (2020, 2023 and 2024). Prior to that, they qualified for the Open Cup three other times (2015, 2017, 2018) through the NPSL. Miami United’s 12 previous Open Division qualifying games have all been against opposition from Florida, and a win over O’Shea’s will push that total to 14, since the winner is guaranteed to play a Florida team in the final round. They are currently on an 11-game qualifying winning streak with their only loss coming in their debut attempt in 2018.

In the 2024 Open Cup, Miami United knocked off pro clubs Chattanooga FC (1-0) and Club de Lyon (2-0), before falling to Memphis 901 FC (USL Championship) 2-0. Jhon Pajoy scored the very first goal of the 2024 U.S. Open Cup, and while no award was given for best goal of the tournament, his rocket free kick would have easily been a contender.

Miami United finished 9-3-1 in the 2024 UPSL Florida South Spring season and are a perfect 10-0-0 in the fall season. The team goal scoring leaders in the fall season are Alessandro Mazzetta with 10 followed by Robertino Insua with 6.

O’Shea’s FC are making their third appearance in Open Cup qualifying. Last year O’Shea’s defeated Hurricane FC 4-2, then fell to Parklands SC 2-0 after extra time. This year, after a bye in the First Round O’Shea’s crushed USSL rivals Atletico Miami Internacional FC 6-2, with Giancarlo Triulzi providing a hat-trick. O’Shea’s FC won the 2024 USSL Florida Elite Division championship.

The winner faces one of the other Third Round Florida winners on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Harbor City FC (UPSL)
vs.
Palm Beach Flames SC (UPSL)
Melbourne HS; Melbourne, FL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

The Palm Beach Flames SC go two hours north to face off with fellow UPSL club Harbor City FC to determine who moves on to a “Win and You’re In” game in December.

Harbor City FC are making their second run at Open Cup qualifying after an unsuccessful qualifying bid in 2023. After an opening round 3-1 win over 2022 qualifier Orlando FC Wolves, Harbor City fell to 2024 qualifier FC America CFL Spurs 1-0. Harbor City finished 5-1-6 in the 2024 UPSL Florida Central spring season. and are currently 4-1-2 in the fall season. Derek Notardonato leads the team in the Fall season with four goals, followed by Mario Licor and Perrie Nascimeno with three apiece.

After a first-round bye,Harbor City blanked UPSL Florida Central rivals Deportivo Lake Mary FC 4-0. Derek Notardonato scored twice, with Perrie Nascimento and Gabe Shelton adding one each.

Palm Beach Flames SC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Palm Beach finished 3-9-1 in the 2024 UPSL Florida South Spring season. Palm Beach received a bye in the First Round of qualifying, then squeaked by the USSL’s Miami Soccer Academy 2-1.

The winner faces one of the other Third Round Florida winners on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

America CFL Spurs (USSL/USSSA)
vs.
Inter Nona SC (USSL/USSSA)
Lake Mary High School; Lake Mary, FL
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: None

A pair of Orlando, Florida area clubs face off to determine who moves on to the Fourth round and a chance to qualify for the 2025 U.S. Open Cup.

FC America CFL Spurs return to Open Cup qualifying after a successful effort in 2024. FC America allowed just one goal in its three qualifying games, wins over Deportivo Lake Mary (8-0), Harbor City FC (1-0) and Leg-AZ World FC (4-1). FC America then gave USL League One side South Georgia Tormenta FC a tough time in the First Round, losing 1-0.

Not to be confused with Nona FC of Kissimmee, Fla., who qualified in 2023 from USL League Two, Inter Nona, from Orlando, Fla., are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year.

Nona received a bye in the First Round, then defeated the UPSL’s International Soccer Association 2-0 in the second round, with Dominick White (10’) and Steve Cardona (74’) scoring in each half.

The winner faces one of the other Third Round Florida winners on December 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Tulsa Athletic (UPSL)
vs.
Woodland FC (TSL/USCS)
Athletic Community Stadium; Tulsa, OK
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

After drawing a double bye, Woodland Football Club of Shawnee, Kansas travel South to play their first ever qualifying game versus six-time Open Cup qualifiers Tulsa Athletic.

While Tulsa Athletic are making their Open Division qualifying debut this year, they are no strangers to the Open Cup. Tulsa has qualified for the Open Cup via the NPSL six times (2014, 2015, 2017, 2022, 2023, 2024). 2023 was their biggest year in the tournament, upsetting FC Tulsa in the Second Round to set up a Third Round date with Sporting Kansas City of MLS. Tulsa finished tied with Chicago House for the Open Division prize money as a result. Tulsa won 2023 NPSL championship but left the league in the spring of 2024 due to differences with the league. Tulsa are debuting in the 2024 UPSL fall season and are off to a 8-1-0 start.

After receiving a bye in Round 1 of qualifying. Tulsa eased past the UPSL’s FC Bartlesville Buffaloes 4-0. Mitchell Cashion scored twice, with the other goals coming from Jonathan Harris and a Bartlesville Own Goal

Woodland Football Club of Shawnee, Kansas are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year, and were one of two teams to receive double byes into the Third Round. Woodland Football Club finished 15-1-0 in the 2024 The Select League season. Joseph Caughron led the team with 12 goals in league play, followed by Spence Jean Baptiste with 11. Woodland Football Club are the first club from Kansas to enter Open Division qualifying since Kansas City’s Santa Fe Wanderers in 2018.

The winner faces the winner of Chicago House AC vs. Wisloka Chicago on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

210 FC (UPSL)
vs.
Houston Regals SCA (USSL/USSSA)
South Texas Area Regional Soccer Complex; San Antonio, TX
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: 210 FC Veo page (link coming)

The USSL’s Houston Regals make a trip across Texas to face San Antonio’s 210 FC to determine who will continue their qualifying debut next month for a “Win and You’re In” game.

210 FC are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying. 210 is the area code for San Antonio, Texas. 210 FC will try to become the second team to qualify for the Open Cup with an area code as its team name, with Omaha, Nebraska’s 402 FC first making the cut in 2009. 210 FC finished 3-6-1 in the 2024 UPSL Texas Central spring season and finished at disappointing 2-6-2 in the fall season, losing the final four games of their season. Devin Vega led the team in the fall with three goals.

Houston Regals are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Regals won the 2024 Spring USSL Texas championship. Both clubs received a bye into Round 2. 210 FC defeated the Austin Thunder 2-1 in the second round, overcoming playing shorthanded in the opening half. Sergio Bustos’ first half goal held up for the victory.

Houston Regals also had a tough Second Round affair, needing extra time to knock off ASC New Stars 3-2. Yusuf Jabril and Victor Soria scored first half goals, and Samuel Cordero came through with what proved to be the winner eight minutes into extra time.

The winner faces either FORO SC or StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Bay Valley Suns Sports Club (UPSL)
vs.
Valley 559 FC (UPSL)
Las Positas College; Livermore, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: Bay Valley Suns Veo page (link coming)

Fresno, California’s Valley 559 FC make the 150 mile trek north to face UPSL NorCal South rivals Bay Valley Suns Sports Club. The teams have met twice in the UPSL Fall season. Back in August, Bay Valley were 3-2 winners, with David Arenas scoring twice. More recently in November, 559 FC ran away with a 7-0 win, Ashkanov Apollon registering five goals.

Bay Valley are debuting in Open Cup qualifying this year. The Suns finished 5-4-1 in the 2024 UPSL NorCal South spring season and are 4-4-1 in the fall season. Victor Romero and David Arenas share the scoring lead in the fall season with five goals apiece.

Valley 559 FC return for their second attempt at Open Cup qualifying. In their debut last year, Valley defeated Real San Jose 2-1 (USSSA/NSL) 2-1 and Bay Area United FC (NISA Nation) 4-1 before falling to FC Folsom (UPSL) 5-3. 559 is the area code for Fresno, Calif. Valley 559 finished 9-1-0 in the 2024 UPSL Nor Cal South Spring season and reached the Final 8 of the UPSL Spring National playoffs. In the fall season they are 5-3-0.

Both clubs received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying. In the Second Round Bay Valley got goals from David Arenas and Adolfo Trujillo in the final two minutes to knock off Napa Valley 1839 FC (UPSL) 2-1. Valley 559 FC had an easier time in their Second Round contest, rolling over Modesto City FC (NISA Nation) 7-0. Aaron and Andrew Huerta accounted for three and two goals respectively.

The winner faces either International San Francisco or Real Galt FC on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Real Galt FC (UPSL)
vs.
International San Francisco (SFSFL/USASA)
Galt High School; Galt, Calif
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: None

The SFSFL’s International San Francisco make a short trip to the North to face the UPSL’s Real Galt FC to determine who will advance to a “Win & You’re In” game next month.

Real Galt are making their qualifying debut this year. Galt finished 3-3-4 in the 2024 UPSL NorCal North spring season and finished 5-4-1 in the fall season. Galt made a successful qualifying debut on Oct. 6, winning 3-1 over Acoreano Sport (UPSL), Gilberto Angel Lopez scored twice. In the Second Round Galt knocked off FC Folson (UPSL) 3-1, breaking a 1-1 draw with a pair of goals in the 90th minute. Lopez once again scoring twice.

Inter are making their fourth qualifying attempt, having entered every year since 2022. Inter qualified in 2023 with a 5-1 win over BattleBorn FC, but failed to repeat that success last year, losing 4-2 to FC Folsom in the final round. Inter started in the SFSFL 3rd tier in 2021, winning promotion two seasons in a row to reach the Premier Division.

The winner faces either Bay Valley Suns Sports Club or Valley 559 FC on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Laguna United FC (UPSL)
vs.
Irvine FC (UPSL)
La Paz Sports Park; Laguna Night, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: None

Irvine FC make the 20-minute trip across Southern L.A. to face Laguna United FC to decide who moves on to a “Win & You’re In” game in early December.

Laguna United hope to do better than their first two qualifying attempts the past two years. Both years Laguna was eliminated by Capistrano FC, each time by 4-1 scores. The good news is Capistrano FC is now a professional club with NISA and they don’t have to worry about them. Laguna United finished 7-3-1 in the 2024 UPSL SoCal North spring season, and are 7-2-1 in the Fall season with one game remaining. Michael Barraza leads the team in the Fall season with 11 goals.

After receiving a First Round bye, Laguna mauled the shorthanded Trojans FC (UPSL) 14-0. Jacob Garcia, Andrew Bowles and Michael Barraza each had hat-tricks in the rout.

Irvine FC are making their third appearance in Open Cup qualifying. Both of their previous attempts in 2023 and 2024 ended with losses in their opening games. Irvine FC finished 5-4-1 in the 2024 UPSL SoCal South Division 1 spring season and are 7-3-0 in the Fall season, Elliot Ruoo leads the team with 13 goals in the Fall. Irvine received a bye in Round 1 of qualifying, then opened 2025 qualifying with a 4-0 win over Playmaker FC of the Southwest Premier League, Rene Sanchez scored twice for Irvine. While all the Open Division is classified as “Division IV”, you could technically say Irvine is “Division V”, since they are currently in the second tier of the UPSL system.

The winner faces either Chula Vista FC or San Diego Internacional on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Next Level Soccer (UPSL)
vs.
Las Vegas Legends FC (NISA Nation/USASA)
Faith Luthern HS; Las Vegas, NV
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

In a battle of qualifying debutants versus a club that has previously made the cup cut, the UPSL’s Next Level Soccer travel from the outskirts of Phoenix to face the Las Vegas Legends of NISA Nation.

Next Level Soccer are making their debuts in both Open Cup qualifying and the UPSL in 2024 Fall season, where they are 3-5-1. After a First Round bye, Next Level knocked off 2023 qualifier UDA Soccer 2-1, Michael Miller and Danny Baca scoring in each half.

Soccer Academy Nevada are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. This is also the first attempt at Open Division qualifying for the Las Vegas Legends FC, though they previously qualified in 2022 as a member of NPSL. In that appearance Vegas beat Park City Red Wolves (USL-2) 3-2, but then lost 5-0 to New Mexico United (USL Championship). The Legends NPSL team finished 10-0-0 in the 2024 season and are 6-0-2 in the Fall season of NISA Nation. Ethan Kovach and Roberto Soto lead the NISA Nation team with 7 goals apiece.

Legends opened Open Cup qualifying with a convincing 6-1 win over NISA Nation rivals Soccer Academy Nevada, scoring six unanswered goals after falling behind 1-0 in the 8th minute, Esequiel Coronel bagged a brace in the win.

The winner faces either Deportivo Rose City or Washington Athletic Club on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

ROUND 4 (“Win & You’re In)

Southern Indiana FC (UPSL)
vs.
Dalton United (UPSL)
Green Valley Soccer Complex; New Albany, Ind.
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

The first “Win and You’re In’ game to kick off this weekend pits two clubs who not only have never qualified for the Open Cup before but are also making their initial attempt at qualifying. Southern Indiana look to become the first Indiana team to qualify through Open Division qualifying team since it was re-organized in 2016, and the first Open Division/USASA team to qualify from Indiana since Indianapolis’s Reggae Boyz in 2005.

Southern Indiana FC (not to be confused with Southern Indiana Guardians, another UPSL club in Open Cup qualifying), received a First Round bye, then made their Open Cup qualifying debut on Oct. 6 with a 3-1 win over Valhalla FC (Ohio Valley Prem. League), with Jake Calderbank converting a pair of penalty kicks in the opening half, and Vladyslav Peretyatko adding the third. In the Third Round SDIFC rolled over UIPSL rivals Bowling Green FC 5-0, getting goals from five different players (Ekuchi Salehe, Diallo Irakoze, Jake Calderbank, Kellen Clegg and Luca Perrin).

SIFC finished 9-0-1 in the UPSL Fall season, winning their final two games 8-0 and 14-0, and await an opponent TBD in the division playoffs. Vladyslav Peretyatko led the Fall campaign with six goals, and nine other players scored two or more of the team’s 46 Fall season goals.

After a First Round bye, Dalton United made their Open Cup qualifying debut on Oct. 6 with a 3-0 win over Pre-College Development Academy (UPSL) on goals from Frank Herrera, Ezequiel Hernandez and Tony Saldana. In the Third Round Dalton and the UPSL’s Mint Hill played to a 0-0 draw after 120 minutes, the only qualifying game this year to go scoreless. Dalton prevailed in the PK tiebreaker 4-1 to advance to their first ever “Win and You’re In” game for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup

Dalton are currently 8-0-1 in the fall season UPSL Georgia, with a 7-0-0 start interrupted by two draws. Frank Herrera, Ezequiel Hernandez and Francisco Medina lead the way in the Fall season with 5 goals each. There is also a Dalton United FC in Dalton-in-Furness, Cumbria, England playing in the West Lancashire League Division Two (13th tier of the English pyramid).

ROUND 4 (“Win & You’re In)

CD Faialense (BSSL/USASA)
vs.
FCY New York (UPSL)
Miller Field; Winthrop, Mass.
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: Mass Soccer Veo page (link coming)

Another “Win & You’re In” matchup featuring clubs looking for their first Open Cup appearance also kicks off at the same time as SIFC vs. Dalton United. Buffalo’s FCY New York travel south to Winthrop, Massachusetts to face CD Faialense with a birth in next year’s Open Cup field on the line.

Faialense are in their second qualifying run but have been around since 1971. In their initial qualifying attempt last year Faialense defeated Boston Street via penalties, but then fell 3-2 to Brockton FC United in Round 3, Faialense finished atop the 2024 Bay State Soccer League Division 1 table with a 13-3-2 mark. They also finished atop the BSSL in the 2023 season. After an opening round bye Faialense had no trouble dispatching Boston Street FC (IUPSL) 4-1, former Harvard University standout Alessandro Arlotti leading the way with a pair of goals. Faialense used the same scoreline to defeat Project Football (UPSL) in the Third Round, with goals coming from Garrett Leary, Gianluca Arlotti, Eoin Houlihan and Mirko Nufi.

Faialense is Portuguese meaning native or inhabitant of Faial, an island among the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. Faialense cruised in their opening qualifying game, beating Boston Street FC (UPSL) 4-1.

MORE: Clube Desportivo Faialense: Back to the Future in Cambridge, MA (US Soccer)

After a First Round bye, FCY New York made their debut in Open Cup qualifying with a 5-3 win over Roc City Boom (NISA Nation). Ali Shawish led with a pair of goals, and Whitman Hernandez put the back-and-forth game away with a 90th minute stoppage time goal. FCY’s Third Round game wasn’t decided until 90th minute stoppage time, as Freddy Fikiri’s goal at the end lifted FCY over the Pittsburgh Dynamo 1-0 at the Pittsburgh Riverhounds’s Highmark Stadium.

FCY got its start as the Lackawanna Yemen Soccer Club in 1975, and joined the UPSL in the 2021 Spring season. FCY finished the 2024 UPSL Western NY spring season with a 5-0-5 record but fell to Rochester NY FC in the Western NY division playoff final. Ali Shawish led the team with 5 goals, followed by Ali Alomari with 4. FCY did not play in the 2024 UPSL Fall season. FCY would be the first team from Buffalo to qualify for the US Open Cup through the USASA or Open Division qualifying in the Modern Era (since 1995).

ROUND 4 (“Win & You’re In)

New Jersey Alliance FC (UPSL)
vs.
Steel Pulse FC (MSSL/USASA)
Athenia Steel Park; Clifton, N.J.
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

The third “Win & You’re In” game to kickoff at 6 p.m. on Saturday features one club who reached this stage last year versus a team who have never been this close to an Open Cup berth. Neither New Jersey Alliance FC nor Steel Pulse FC have ever qualified for the Open Cup.

New Jersey Alliance are making their fourth qualifying appearance and opened their 2025 campaign with a 2-0 Second Round win over SC Vistula Garfield (EPSL), Emiland Elezaj and Joshua Geller scoring in the second half. In the Third Round, the Alliance dominated Alloy Soccer Club (UPSL) 6-1 with Emiland Elezaj and Ramchwy St. Vil leading the way with a brace each.

NJA FC finished the 2024 UPSL Northeast American South Fall season 6-2-2, Marlon Preciado leading the team with 7 goals.

After going “one and done” in 2022 and 2023, the club reached the final round of qualifying last year, conceding no goals in their three games. Their opening game last year was also a 2-0 win over Vistula Garfield. Unfortunately, the final game was a 0-0 draw with Vereinigung Erzgebirge, and they were eliminated via penalty shootout.

Steel Pulse FC have not qualified in their four previous appearances but have an impressive resume outside of qualifying. Steel Pulse finished 8-2-0 in the 2024 MSSL Division 1 spring season and won the 2024 Rowland Cup (Maryland State Cup) 2-1 over Christos FC. The club is currently 5-2-2 in the 2024 MSSL Division 1 Fall season. Diarra Zoumana and Stephen Jude lead Steel Pulse in goals for the MSSL Fall season with 5 and 4 respectively.

Qualifying has been a different story, however. Their first three attempts ended after just one game, and last year their lone qualifying win (13-2 over Villarreal CF Virginia) was followed by a penalty kick loss to Christos FC after a 1-1 draw. In their qualifying opener on Oct. 6, Steel Pulse dominated Maryland Bobcats II (EPSL) 7-0.

Starting in the Second Round, Steel Pulse dismantled Maryland Bobcats II (EPSL) 7-0. Stephen Jude and Williams Yami Nono each scored a pair of goals in the rout. Their Third Round game against VA Revolution Pro (UPSL) was bit more challenging, but Pulse came away 4-2 winners through goals from Emmanuel Oluwesi, Williams Yani, Zoumana Diarra and Sinasi Emre Deniz.

ROUND 4 (“Win & You’re In)

West Chester United SC (USLPA/USASA)
vs.
Vereinigung Erzgebirge (USLPA/USASA)
Kildare’s Turf Field; West Chester, Pa.
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Two clubs who are VERY familiar with one another battle it out for a spot in next year’s Open Cup.

West Chester finished atop the standings for the 2023/24 USL of Pennsylvania season at 12-1-0, VE finished the 2023/24 USL of PA season with a 10-3-1 record. In the early 2024/25 season, VE is on top of the league at 3-1-0 and West Chester is 1-0-1. West Chester United’s Jacob Gier and Ridge Robinson topped the USL of PA goal scoring list for the 2023/24 season with 14 goals apiece. Christopher Baker was VE’s leading scorer with six.

West Chester and VE have met numerous times over the past year. Last December, WCU upended VE 5-0 in the Eastern PA Amateur Cup Semifinals. In May 2024, VE gained a measure of revenge in league play with a 1-0 win, but West Chester came back the next week and beat VE 4-2. In the early stages of the 2024-25 season in September, VE topped WCU 3-0. Finally, in Eastern Pennsylvania Amateur cup group play on Nov. 10, WCU rolled over VE 8-2, advancing them to the EPA Amateur Cup semifinals. Technically, West Chester United are involved in qualifying for both the 2025 and 2026 Open Cup, since the current Eastern Pennsylvania Amateur Cup feeds to USASA Region I Amateur Cup, and then to the 2025 National Amateur Cup, whose winner earns spot in the 2026 US Open Cup.

West Chester also won the Frank Giancroce Open Cup (Eastern Pennsylvania), defeating Alloy SC of the EPSL 4-2. Besides qualifying in 2016, 2019 and 2023 through the Open Division, West Chester have also qualified for the Open Cup through USL League Two (2022) and the NPSL (2024).

West Chester’s path to this game took them past two rival USL of PA clubs rich in Open Cup history. First up was two-time Open Cup finalists (1977, 1994) United German Hungarians, whom West Chester rolled over 6-0. Josh Luchini scored four of the six goals. Next up was four-time Open Cup champions (1960, 1961, 1963 and 1966) Ukrainian Nationals, and West Chester United had no trouble winning 6-1. Ridge Robinson tallied a hat-trick in the win.

VE has entered every edition of qualifying since it was revamped. VE qualified once in 2002, then again last year, winning 3-0 over Philadelphia Heritage SC (EPSL), and advancing twice on penalties over United German Hungarians (USL of PA) and New Jersey Alliance (UPSL). VE also qualified in 2020 with a 2-1 win over West Chester United, but the Open Cup was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VE routed Colonial SC 4-0 on Oct. 6 to open qualifying. Chris Baker scored two goals, and former pro Antoine Hoppenot added two assists. In the Third Round, VE dismissed the EPSL’s Kensington Soccer Club, with Baker scoring again joined by Alex Hajj, Kevin Smolyn and Derek Antonini.

ROUND 4 (“Win & You’re In)

Virginia Dream FC (VSSL/USASA)
vs.
Aegean Hawks FC (APL/USASA)
Meridian High School; Falls Church, Va.
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

A trip across the Potomac River awaits Aegean Hawks FC to determine if they secure their fourth Open Cup appearance, or if Virginia Dream FC can earn their first ever spot in the nations oldest soccer tournament.

Virginia Dream’s UPSL team finished 8-1-1 in 2024 spring season & reached the Round of 16 in the UPSL national playoffs. Their team in the Virginia Super Soccer League finished 9-0-1 in the summer season and are 6-0-2 in the fall session. Jakob Asfaha is the top scorer for VDFC in the VSSL with 7.

Virginia Dream drew a bye through Rounds 1 and 2. In the Third Round, Virginia defeated the UPSL’s Alexandria Reds 2-1 after extra time, both goals coming from Nico Likulia.

MORE: Virginia’s Dream team dressing for the big occasion (US Soccer)

Aegean Hawks (named by club founders after Greek military helicopters) are well seasoned in Open Cup qualifying. They have entered eight of the last nine qualifying tournaments. While they have qualified for the Open Cup three times (2007, 2009 and 2012), they have failed to qualify since Open Division qualifying was revised in 2016. In fact, the club has never made it past a second game. The Hawks finished 7-2-1 in the APL’s 2024 Spring season and are currently 6-2-0 in the Fall season. David Rosenbaum leads the team with 4 goals.

The Hawks kicked off their 2025 qualifying run on Oct. 6 with a dramatic 2-1 win over DC Hyper (UPSL). After Hyper tied the game with an 88th minute penalty kick, David Rosenbaum won the game for the Hawks with a goal in the eighth minute of stoppage time. In the Third Round, the Hawks knocked off another UPSL club, MSI Pro, 2-0. Salah Ward and Ethan Heydt scored for the winners in the first half.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17

ROUND 3

KS Wisloka Chicago (UPSL)
vs.
Chicago House AC (MWPL/USSSA)
Redmond Park; Bensenville, IL
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: KS Wisloka Chicago Veo page (link coming)

Chicago House AC and KS Wisloka Chicago battle it out to determine who represents the Windy City in a “Win & You’re In” contest next month.

The Peter Wilt founded Chicago House are making their third qualifying appearance, having advanced to the tournament proper in 2023 and 2024. In 2023, House upset USL League One’s Forward Madison 3-2 after extra time, also earning AR Smith Jr. TheCup.us Player of the Round honors. The win set up a Third Round match with Wilt’s former club, the Chicago Fire, who were victorious, 3-0. Chicago House finished with a 6-3-1 record in the 2024 MWPL Heartland Division 1 season.

House opened their qualifying run on Oct. 5 with a 3-2 win over MWPL league-mates Edgewater Castle FC. Two early first half goals from Pau Mateo Chacon and Alejandro Mentasti held up for House in their 2-0 win over United SC (UPSL) in the Second Round.

WATCH: Chicago House AC vs. Edgewater Castle

Wisloka are also making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Wisloka won 2024 Illinois State Cup over Edgewater Castle FC 2-0 in July. Wisloka finished 7-2-1 in the 2024 UPSL Midwest Central-North Spring season and are 6-2-2 in their just completed fall season. Adrian Diaz and Wojtek Wojcik shared the scoring leadership in the Fall season with four apiece.

Playing in a 2-0 deficit most of the game, Isaac Perez and Giovannie Ortiz scored for Wisloka in the final eight minutes to tie the game 2-2 and force extra time, Wisloka eventually prevailed in the penalty shootout 5-4.

The club takes its name from Wisłoka Dębica, one of the oldest existing sports clubs in Poland having been founded in 1908.

The winner faces either Tulsa Athletic or Woodland FC on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club (DSA/USASA)
vs.
FORO SC (UPSL)
Willow Springs Stadium; Lucas, TX
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: None

FORO SC are making their second run at Open Cup qualifying after a successful attempt in 2024. In last year’s qualifying, FORO started with a 2-0 win over Tenfifteen FC (UPSL), then received a forfeit win over Athletic Katy FC. FORO punched their Open Cup ticket with a 4-0 win over Alamo City SC (UPSL). In the Open Cup, FORO pulled off a memorable upset of Austin FC II of MLS NEXT Pro, scoring the tying goal in extra time stoppage time, then winning the penalty tiebreaker. FORO’s Kyle Bennett earned TheCup.us Player of the Round honors for his performance in the match.

FORO finished 6-2-2 in the 2024 UPSL Texas North spring season and reached UPSL 2023 fall season final four. They finished 8-2-0 in the 2024 fall season, with Kyle Bennett the leading scorer at 10 goals.

In their lone 2025 qualifying game, 2024 Open Cup hero Kyle Bennett once again came to the rescue in FORO’s 4-1 extra time win over D’Feeters Kicks SC (Dallas Soccer Association). With the game going into extra time at 1-1, Bennett caught fire, scoring three times in the extra session to advance FORO into the Third Round.

StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. StrikerZ won the Open 1 Summer season of the Dallas Soccer Alliance, and received a double bye in this year’s qualifying, meaning this will be their first ever qualifying game.

The winner faces either 210 FC OR Houston Regals SCA on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Washington AC (SRATS/USASA)
vs.
Deportivo Rose City (UPSL)
Shoreline Soccer Field; Shorline, WA
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: None

Deportivo Rose City returns to the Seattle area to face Washington AC to determine who will get one step closer to claiming their first ever Open Cup berth.

Making their Open Cup qualifying debut, Portland’s Deportivo Rose City traveled north to face Seattle’s Sharktopus FC in their opening qualifying game, and it was quite a wild affair. After taking a 3-1 lead in the second half, Sharktopus came back to tie the game at 3-3 and force extra time. Deportivo then took another two-goal lead in the extra session, but Sharktopus could only pull one goal back, giving Deportivo a 5-4 win.

Rose City finished 7-0-3 in the UPSL Oregon 2024 spring season and are 7-2-0 in the fall season with one game remaining. Kevyn Lo leads the team in the Fall season with 6 goals.

Washington AC are making their qualifying debut, and come from Seattle Recreational Adult Team Soccer, the same league as 2024’s viral sensation Sharktopus FC. The teams have taken turns atop the SRATS, Washington AC winning the Winter and spring regular season and Shaktopus taking the summer section. Washington opened 2025 qualifying with a 4-3 win over Bellevue Athletic FC (UPSL) with Christian Soto scoring twice. In the Second Round, WAC defeated Holac FC (UPSL) 2-1, with Eric Lagos scoring twice to erase a 1-0 deficit. Washington Athletic Club enters the competition with some rich history as they were founded in 1930.

The winner faces either Las Vegas Legends or Next Level Soccer on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

Red Force FC (PFL/USASA)
vs.
Pinecrest Premier SC (UPSL)
Kendall Soccer Park; Miami, FL
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: Red Force FC Veo page (link coming)

Pinecrest Premier SC and Red Force FC make the short trip West to Kendall Soccer Park to decide who moves on to a “Win & You’re In” game next month.

Pinecrest Premier SC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. Pinecrest Premier SC finished 7-1-5 in the 2024 UPSL Florida South Spring season and are 6-2-1 in the fall season with two games remaining. Manuel Calvo leads the team in scoring with 6 goals, followed by Daniel Lazardi with 5. Pinecrest received a bye through the First Round, then defeated Hurricane FC (FGCL) 4-0 on the strength of a hat-trick from Lazardi.

After a two-year absence, Red Force return to Open Cup qualifying. They’ve qualified four times (2013, 2014, 2017 and 2018) with the final two times coming under the current Open Division qualifying format. They have been eliminated three times by Florida Soccer Soldiers (2019, 2020 & 2022) Red Force finished 7-1-1 in the 2024 Premier Futbol League Premier Spring season.

After a First Round bye, Red Force defeated Naples United U-23s (SCSL) 3-2, getting goals from John Diaz, Santiago Fejardo and David Holguin

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC

2018 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC

The winner faces one of the other Florida winners on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

San Diego Internacional (UPSL)
vs.
Chula Vista FC (SWPL/USSSA)
Mission Bay High School; San Diego, CA
Kickoff: 9 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Looking to return to the Open Cup for a third time, Chula Vista FC makes the trip across the city to face the UPSL’s San Diego Internacional, who are trying to reach the Open cup for the first time.

Founded in 1982, Chula Vista has considerably more qualifying experience, making their seventh appearance, though this year marks a return after a two-year hiatus. Chula Vista has qualified three times, 2015, 2017 and 2020, with 2020 voided due to COVID-19. During the 2015 US Open Cup. Chula Vista pulled a 3-0 road upset over the USL’s Arizona United (now Phoenix Rising FC). Chula Vista opened their 2024 qualifying campaign on Oct. 5 with a penalty kick win over fellow SWPL club Desert FC after a 1-1 draw, Oscar Hernandez scoring the lone goal for Chula Vista. In the Second Round, Chula Vista eased by FC Balboa (UPSL) 3-0, Jordan Rojas providing all the goals. Chula Vista are currently 3-0-1 in the SWPL San Diego Premier League Fall season, having won the 2024 SWPL Spring championship.

Highlights: Chula Vista vs, FC Balboa (Facebook)

San Diego Internacional are making their Open Cup qualifying debut this year. SDI finished 6-4-1 in the 2024 UPSL SoCal South Spring season and sit at 7-3-0 in the fall season with one game remaining. Spencer Hoyle led the team in scoring for the fall season with nine goals, followed by Luke Raley with eight.

The winner faces either Laguna United FC or Irvine FC on Dec. 7 or 8 for a spot in the 2025 US Open Cup.

ROUND 4 (Win & You’re In)

Azteca FC (USSSA/CPL)
vs.
Harpos FC (USSSA/CPL)
Broomfield County Commons Park; Broomfield, CO
Kickoff: 2 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: None

As members of the Colorado Premier League, Azteca FC and Harpos FC are very familiar with each other outside of the US Open Cup. The clubs last met in CPL play on Oct. 13, with Harpos coming out 2-1 winners. Previously Azteca took home a 1-0 win back in May during the spring season. Azteca finished 6-1-2 in the CPL Premier Division 2024 spring season, defeating Harpo’s FC in the CPL spring playoff for their third straight league championship. In the fall season, Azteca are off to a 4-1-0 start.

Harpos have appeared in every qualifying tournament since 2016. Since 2016, Harpos have reached the final round of qualifying five times, with the last coming in 2022. Colorado rivals Azteca FC have eliminated Harpos four times, most recently last year. Harpos have qualified three times, 2015, 2016 and the COVID-19 cancelled 2020 tournament. Harpos finished 5-1-3 in the 2024 CPL Premier Division spring season and are 4-1-2 in the fall season.

Azteca FC are perhaps the most accomplished club from Colorado in Open Division qualifying. Azteca have qualified four times (2017, 2018, 2022 and 2024), last year defeating UDA Soccer 2-1 to punch their ticket. Azteca is 18-0-0 against Colorado opposition in Open Cup qualifying since 2016. They’ve faced Harpos four times in qualifying, three of those games with an Open Cup berth on the line (2017, 2018, 2022), and Azteca eliminated Harpos from last year’s qualifying tournament 2-1.

Harpos received a double bye through Rounds 1 and 2. In the Third Round, Harpos won 2-0 over CPL rivals FC Denver, Elijah Mereness accounting for all the scoring. Azteca FC got off on the right foot in their opening qualifying game on Oct. 6 with a 5-1 win over CPL rivals Boulder United FC, Edgar Castillo scoring twice. In the Third Round, Azteca defeated the Colorado Rovers, another CPL rival, 4-1. Cesar Mesa scored twice with Jovany Herrera and Brandon Rosas adding the other goals.

2022 Meet the Underdogs: Azteca FC

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Azteca FC

2016 Meet the Underdogs: Harpo’s FC

ROUND 4 (Win & You’re In)

Lansdowne Yonkers FC (EPSL/USASA)
vs.
New York Renegades FC (UPSL)
SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex; Central Islip, N.Y.
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
LIVE VIDEO: YouTube

Lansdowne Yonkers FC travel to Central Long Island looking for their 5th appearance in the US Open Cup. Standing in their way are the New York Renegades, an Open Cup newcomer and one of the powerhouses of the UPSL.

The New York Renegades made their qualifying debut last year, and almost made it in, falling to the New York Pancyprian Freedoms (EPSL) 3-0 in the next to last round. The Renegades had a stellar year in the UPSL spring season, finishing 10-0-0 and reaching the Quarterfinals of 2024 Spring UPSL national playoffs. They were just one of just three teams to go unbeaten and untied in 2024 UPSL Spring season. Renegades finished 8-2-0 in the UPSL fall season. Forward Reneau Rances leads the UPSL fall season with 28 goals.

On Oct. 5 the Renegades opened qualifying with a 4-3 win over one of the more historic clubs in the years qualifying New York Greek American SC (EPSL), Oscar Rivas Romero leading the way with a pair of goals in the first half. In the Third Round, the Renegades cruised past Leros SC (Long Island Soccer Football League) 6-0, Reneau Rances scoring twice.

One of the more seasoned participants of Open Cup qualifying, Landowne Yonkers are making their eighth qualifying appearance. Lansdowne have reached the Open Cup proper four times, three through Open Division qualifying (2016, 2018, 2024) and again in 2022 as National Amateur Cup champions.

Lansdowne had an easy time in their qualifying opener, a 6-1 win over EPSL league-mates KidSuper Samba, Ali Daw Ha leading the way with two goals. In the Third Round, Lansdowne beat another EPSL rival in Zum Scneider FC, 3-1. Kyle Galloway, Ethan Homler and Liam Walsh scored for the winners.

Like West Chester United, Lansdowne are involved in qualifying for both the 2025 and 2026 Open Cup, as they are in the Semifinals of the current Dr. Manning Cup (Southern New York). which feeds to USASA Region I Amateur Cup, then to the 2025 National Amateur Cup, whose winner earns spot in the 2026 US Open Cup.

2022 Meet the Underdogs: Lansdowne Yonkers

2016 Meet the Underdogs: Lansdowne Bhoys