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Atlanta United FC

2024 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Indy Eleven holds on to make history with win over Atlanta United

July 10, 2024 by Forrest Wimberly

Indy Eleven players celebrate with their fans after a 2-1 win over Atlanta United FC in the 2024 US Open Cup Quarterfinals. Photo: Wade Wimberly | TheCup.us

The 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup rolled into Kennesaw, Ga. Tuesday night with a quarterfinal match between Atlanta United FC and the visiting Indy Eleven.

Augi Williams with a little Cup Magic ????@IndyEleven | #USOC2024 pic.twitter.com/EtionOfUmi

— U.S. Open Cup (@opencup) July 10, 2024

Indy Eleven used a first-half Augustine Williams goal along with a second-half own goal to build an advantage that the late-pressing hosts just couldn’t equal. The result was the first Open Cup win over an MLS foe for the Indy Eleven and the first time the franchise has advanced into the Open Cup Semifinals.

The win marked just the second time in the tournament’s 109-year history that a team from the state of Indiana has reached the final four. They join the 1992 Indianapolis Inferno as the Hoosier state’s only semifinalist.

Indy Eleven will move on to play the winner of Wednesday’s match between FC Dallas and Sporting Kansas City in the Semifinals. Indy will play that game on the road and will take place during the week of Aug. 27-28.

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

It was a night that played out just like the season fortunes of the two sides taking the pitch who seem to be moving in opposite directions.

Atlanta United currently just below the MLS playoff line in the middle of a mid-season reboot with numerous transfers out and an interim manager. This season of change found the hosts again out of rhythm and just not fluid in all phases of the game.

Indy Eleven currently sits in third place in their USL Championship campaign and have been very successful on the road with a stable and sturdy roster of proven USL performers. The commitment and energy was there whistle to whistle as they took full advantage of the opportunities that presented during the match.

The first part of the match was start-stop due to numerous fouls committed by both teams. The major difference is that the Atlanta fouls provided dangerous free kick opportunities in the Indy attacking third that helped the visitors control the tempo of the match and make opportunistic attacks probing at the Atlanta defense.

What a MASSIVE stop from @Hunter_Sulte to keep @IndyEleven ahead! ????#USOC2024 | @opencup pic.twitter.com/i77vKuLJ74

— USL Championship (@USLChampionship) July 10, 2024

The breakthrough moment came in the 31st minute for Indy as Douglas Martinez made a surging run up the right flank driving a low ball across the penalty spot that Augustine Williams slotted under Josh Cohen in the Atlanta net for the 1-0 advantage. The team mobbed Williams at the corner flag just in front of the very vocal and very happy Indy supporters’ group.

Atlanta seemed to regroup at the half and came out very strong to open the second half but again the errant passes, mis-timed supporting runs, and movements off the ball just didn’t sync up for the hosts.  As Atlanta began to substitute players and become more urgent and direct against the run of play Indy whipped a ball in from the right flank into the Atlanta box where it was defected in for an own goal in the 83rd minute.

Atlanta missed a sitter just seconds after the own goal blasting the loose ball in the box into the side netting leaving the United fans to wonder what could have been.

Atlanta’s Nic Firmino did clean up a loose ball in the Indy box to score a goal in second-half stoppage time. It was the first goal allowed by Indy Eleven in the 2024 US Open Cup, snapping a shutout streak of just under 360 minutes. But in the end it was just too little, too late as the Five Stripes went crashing out of the Open Cup at Fifth Third Bank Stadium at the hands of a USL Championship team for the second year in a row. 

LETS GOOO pic.twitter.com/4dqe3oUmNw

— Indy Eleven (@IndyEleven) July 10, 2024

Indy Eleven Head Coach Sean McAuley praised his team after the match.

“We needed to come out and show a bit of confidence and if you come out in a negative mindset you can get drawn into just protecting,” said McAuley. “We wanted to come out with a really strong attitude towards getting to the goal. I wanted them to recognize we could hold our own in this environment and we knew Atlanta would come out strong in the second half.”

“I remember a lot of our players throwing their bodes in front of the ball, the goalkeeper coming an taking crosses at critical moments which clamed things down, and everybody, a lot of the players running so hard to keep what we had an us into the semifinal,” added McAuley.

With Indy Eleven’s win, it marks just the 15th time since MLS joined the tournament in 1996 that a lower division team has reached the Semifinals. They are the 10th different lower division club to reach the final four during that span.

Filed Under: 2024 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup, US Open Cup Central Tagged With: 2024 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Indy Eleven

2024 US Open Cup Round 5: Atlanta United remain unbeaten vs. Charleston Battery after PK shootout win

May 22, 2024 by Forrest Wimberly

Players from the Charleston Battery (Yellow) and Atlanta United FC battle for the ball in a Fourth Round match in the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Wade Wimberly - TheCup.us
Players from the Charleston Battery (Yellow) and Atlanta United FC battle for the ball in a Fourth Round match in the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Wade Wimberly - TheCup.us
Players from the Charleston Battery (Yellow) and Atlanta United FC battle for the ball in a Fourth Round match in the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Wade Wimberly – TheCup.us

The storylines were numerous entering Tuesday night’s Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Alonso Division Round of 16 match at Patriot’s Point in Mount Pleasant, SC.  

US Open Cup and Battery legend Ozzie Alonso along with several of his teammates from the 2008 Charleston Battery team that finished as the US Open Cup runner-up served as honorary captains in the packed-out park. The Battery were looking to finally advance past Atlanta United after dropping three previous USOC meetings in 2017, 2018, and 2019 to the Five Stripes.

Tuesday night’s match was their best chance to finally overcome the MLS side, taking the 2019 US Open Cup champs to penalty kicks after 120 minutes of scoreless soccer. In the end, Atlanta goalkeeper Josh Cohen saved the last two Battery attempts in the shootout to send United into the Quarterfinals by the score of 5-4.

Atlanta are looking for any jumpstart to return to their magical form sitting atop the US Soccer landscape. Two teams who could not have more contrasting early-season arcs stepping between the lines; the Battery undefeated and soaring in first place of their USL Championship campaign facing off against a United side struggling to find its form in MLS action mired in inconsistent play sitting in 20th place in the Supporter’s Shield standings.  

Cohen with the critical save to see ⁦@ATLUTD⁩ advance in the ⁦@opencup⁩ pic.twitter.com/ULjvzD8yDP

— TheSoccerForrest (@soccer_forrest) May 22, 2024

Against this backdrop, both teams entered the field through the north stand tunnel where the two goalkeepers would write this fourth chapter of USOC history between these southeastern rivals.  

Atlanta United employed a heavily rotated squad of reserve players and academy prospects while the Charleston Battery ran out a nearly full-strength, first-choice lineup. One major change to the Battery lineup was the inclusion of goalkeeper Daniel Kuzemka making his first start of 2024.

The first half saw both teams looking to control the midfield spaces with things being very evenly played between the penalty boxes.  Neither team was able to unlock the opponent’s defense with any regularity and both teams settled for half-chances and hopeful services into well organized and concentrated defensive penalty areas.  When there were sporadic breakdowns in defense the goalkeepers were there to put out the danger and keep things scoreless.

Heading to extra time in Charleston tied 0-0 in @opencup Rd of 16 pic.twitter.com/3vG7t2w8Io

— TheSoccerForrest (@soccer_forrest) May 22, 2024

Charleston called on Atlanta keeper Josh Cohen in the 14th minute off a recycled corner kick where he was up to the task before Kuzemka got his turn to make a big stop in the 18th minute. Charleston again asked questions of Cohen just past the 20 minute mark and again he followed the script and provided the answers to preserve things at 0-0 entering the half.

The second half saw this same pattern of play until Atlanta began to substitute in more regular team selections like Rios, Slisz, Lennon, and Gregerson. These additions provided more Atlanta control of the midfield but never translated into that final decisive ball into the Battery penalty box. The second half ended scoreless and it was off to extra time to decide who would advance into the Quarterfinals.

FULL MATCH VIDEO: Charleston Battery vs. Atlanta United FC

Again, the goalkeepers did enough to keep their opponents off the scoreboard as shots from both teams sailed high over the bar, ran wide of the target, or sputtered into the waiting hands of the keepers.  Extra time saw the Battery with two superb chances in the 114th and 115th minute to grab a late winner but both chances were blocked or off target. Penalty kicks would have to decide who would advance as two exhausted teams stepped to the spot.

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

Daniel Kuzemka saved the first Atlanta kick and gave the hosts an early advantage. The teams then traded goals through four kickers to see the Battery up 4-3 after four rounds.

Nicolas Firmino converted the fifth Atlanta kick to make things level and all eyes turned to Josh Cohen to save what could have been the Charleston victory. Cohen hadn’t saved a penalty over the first four kicks but seemed to get closer and closer to turning the Battery away and then delivered with his team on the verge of elimination with a save in the fifth round to give Atlanta new life. Stian Gregerson then converted the sixth Atlanta kick to give the visitors the lead for the first time and then Cohen pushed the very next Battery shot over the bar with a strong left hand to seal the victory.

Cohen after the save immediately jumped to his feet and sprinted towards midfield jumping and fist pumping before being mobbed by his teammates. The back-to-back saves by Cohen totally flipped the script in the penalty shootout and closed this chapter of the Battery and United USOC rivalry.

Atlanta United now moves on to the Quarterfinals in early July and will learn their opponent and pathway to the final during the draw on Wednesday night.

Filed Under: 2024 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup, US Open Cup Central Tagged With: 2024 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Charleston Battery

2022 US Open Cup Round 3: Atlanta United begin delayed title defense with blowout of Chattanooga FC

April 23, 2022 by Sydney Hunte

Atlanta United forward Luiz Araújo dribbles the ball during the match against Chattanooga FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Kyle Hess | Atlanta United

Atlanta United forward Luiz Araújo dribbles the ball during the match against Chattanooga FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Kyle Hess | Atlanta United
Atlanta United forward Luiz Araújo dribbles the ball during the match against Chattanooga FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Kyle Hess | Atlanta United

Nearly two years and eight months after it hoisted the U.S. Open Cup in front of more than 35,700 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta United opened its long-awaited title defense in convincing fashion.

Behind a trio of first-half goals in the span of a quarter-hour – including a first-half brace from Dom Dwyer – and three more in the second half, Atlanta cruised to a comprehensive 6-0 victory over the NISA’s Chattanooga FC at Fifth Third Bank Stadium in Kennesaw, Ga.

Marcelino Moreno added a goal from the penalty spot, and Luiz Araujo and Brooks Lennon each added second-half tallies of their own as well, as Atlanta booked its place in the Open Cup’s Round of 32, 966 days after defeating Minnesota United 2-1 in the 2019 US Open Cup Final.

It was the positive start to the competition the Five Stripes needed. Captain and goalkeeper Brad Guzan suffered a ruptured Achilles during a league match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday while the club was already without Josef Martinez following a knee procedure weeks prior.

A magical @OpenCup night in Kennesaw ✨ pic.twitter.com/5nPxBmVumV

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) April 23, 2022


“I told the team that they (showed) good intensity today,” said Atlanta head coach Gonzalo Pineda. “I was very happy with how fast we moved the ball from side to side, and especially on the ground and especially through the midfielders. When we did that, we were really dangerous.”

Atlanta opened the scoring in the 21st minute through Ronald Hernandez, as Andrew Gutman’s cross into the scoring area found the Venezuelan right back. Hernandez snuck it past Chattanooga goalkeeper Kevin Gonzalez for just his second goal for the club to make it a 1-0 lead for the hosts.

The advantage grew to 2-0 just minutes later in the 25th, as Dwyer flicked a well-timed header into the net following a perfect ball from Jake Mulraney. Dwyer made it a double for himself in the 35th, as he lasered a strike from outside the box to increase Atlanta’s lead to 3-0.

“He’s an experienced No. 9 in this league that we know is able and capable of scoring goals,” Pineda said. “It was good to see that performance…I’m very happy for him and his confidence.”

US Open Cup Career
Goalscoring Leaders
(Modern Era 1995-present)
16
Sebastien Le Toux
13
David Bulow
Kenny Cooper
Johnny Menyongar
Jaime Moreno
12
Melvin Tarley
11
Dom Dwyer
10
6 tied with 10

That makes three goals in as many appearances with Atlanta for the former U.S. international, once one of MLS’s most lethal strikers but now looking to rediscover his scoring touch after a spell of disappointing form over the past several years.

“Honestly, I’m in a good place,” Dwyer said of joining the club after two years at Toronto FC and several seasons at Atlanta rival Orlando City SC prior to that. “Atlanta’s believed in me as a club, and signed me to a multiple-year contract, so for me, it’s trying to perform each week, whether I’m asked to start or come off the bench, or whatever it is”

For Dwyer, it was his 10th and 11th career US Open Cup goals, which is fourth most in the Modern Era (1995-present). Dwyer scored three for Orlando City in 2013 (as a member of USL Pro), before scoring six between the 2015 and the Open Cup winning 2017 Sporting Kansas City teams.

Atlanta United weren’t done, though. Mulraney was taken down in the box near the end line, leading referee Matthew Thompson to point to the spot. Moreno stepped up and converted the resulting penalty to make it 4-0 less than 10 minutes into the second half. Araujo added Atlanta’s fifth goal with a nifty finish in the 67th, while Brooks Lennon capped the scoring in the 84th minute as Atlanta improved to 5-0-0 all-time in Open Cup play at Fifth Third Bank Stadium.

It was in stark contrast to Saturday’s league match against Cincinnati, a 0-0 stalemate that followed a 1-0 loss to expansion side Charlotte FC. With a club Open Cup record six-goal effort against Chattanooga, though, Pineda expressed hope that the performance would kickstart a flagging attack, starting with Sunday afternoon’s league contest at Inter Miami CF.

“ were a bit more composed in the final third, even though, still, there were some chances that we let go because the last touch, the last pass wasn’t quite there,” Pineda said. “I felt that today they gained confidence…Hopefully is that night that will help us in the future to score more goals.”

Filed Under: 2022 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2022 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Chattanooga Football Club

2019 US Open Cup Final: Record crowd watches Atlanta United become first Georgia team to lift the trophy

August 28, 2019 by Sydney Hunte

Atlanta United FC celebrates their 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup championship. Photo: Allison Andrews

Atlanta United FC celebrates their 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup championship. Photo: Allison Andrews
Atlanta United FC celebrates their 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup championship. Photo: Allison Andrews

The Philip F. Anschutz Trophy. Campeones Cup. And now, the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

Atlanta United made it three trophies in its brief history as it held off a pesky Minnesota United FC side, 2-1 in front of an all-time US Open Cup Final record attendance of 35,709 fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With the win, Atlanta became the first Georgia-based team to lift the trophy in the 106-year history of the tournament. They also became the first team from Major League Soccer to clinch a spot in the 2020 CONCACAF Champions League and walk away with $300,000 in prize money.

Minnesota United, who were also seeking to become the first team from their state to win the tournament, leave with $100,000 as the runner up.

“Today, we achieved something beautiful for the club,” said Atlanta coach Frank de Boer, who joined Bruce Arena (1996-97) and Dave Sarachan (2003-04) as the only coaches to win their first five US Open Cup games. “Of course, we have a short history as Atlanta United, but to win in the third year is a fantastic achievement.”

Atlanta’s win wasn’t without a bit of adversity, either. After a fortunate own goal and Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez scoring in the first 16 minutes of the match, Leandro Gonzalez Pirez received two yellow cards within three minutes of each other, forcing the home team to play more than 15 minutes plus five minutes of stoppage time down a man. In the end, the hosts survived – and were the ones left celebrating when the final whistle sounded.

🎥 The domination continues in front of our 17s

Highlights from our U.S. Open Cup Final win pic.twitter.com/MrrtpUCQ9N

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 28, 2019

It looked as if a quick start was in the cards as if not for an offside flag in the 2nd minute on a goal from Josef Martinez, Atlanta would have had the early lead. But that opening score did come in the 10th minute thanks to some bad luck on Minnesota’s part. A sequence that started with a pinpoint pass from Pity Martinez saw the ball make its way to a free-running Gonzalez Pirez, who attempted to cross the ball. As he did, Minnesota’s Chase Gasper slid in to block the pass, but instead, the ball deflected off of him and past goalkeeper Vito Mannone to make it 1-0.

Atlanta United FC broke the all-time US Open Cup Final attendance record with a crowd of 35,709 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the 2019 Final. Photo: Allison Andrews
Atlanta United FC broke the all-time US Open Cup Final attendance record with a crowd of 35,709 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the 2019 Final. Photo: Allison Andrews

In the 17th minute, Pity Martinez found himself involved in the offense again. A beautiful cross by Justin Meram from the left side was one-touched perfectly into the net by the former South American Footballer of the Year to make it a 2-0 scoreline.

Minnesota wouldn’t stay on the mat, though, striking just a couple minutes into the second half when Kevin Molino was played through on the right wing. Molino crossed the ball into the box where he found Robin Lod who redirected the ball into the back of the net to cut the lead in half and give the visitors new life.

Atlanta would create several opportunities to add to its lead in the second half – including a goal that was called offside. However, despite their pressure, with a record crowd behind them, it failed to materialize. Minnesota, for its part, couldn’t find the equalizer.

“When you look back over the 90 minutes, we had four or five really, really good chances,” said Minnesota coach Adrian Heath. “We gave ourselves a huge hole to get ourselves out of, but I can’t fault the guys for the effort they put in to try to put us back on level terms. We got the goal, and I thought the initiative was with us.”

The potential turning point, though, came just shy of the final quarter-hour of the match as Pirez was given his marching orders after receiving a second yellow card by referee Allen Chapman. But the tying goal, one that would have sent the match to extra time, never came as the Loons’ best chance saw Michael Boxall sky a stoppage-time attempt over the bar as Atlanta saw the match out for the eventual win.

A new trophy for the ATL 🙌 pic.twitter.com/JsFlYaw5Se

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 28, 2019

“I think the mindset was, ‘We should still be playing’,” said Boxall. “In the halftime, when we spoke, we knew if we got one, then we’d given ourselves every chance of bringing the trophy home … It just hurts that we’re not still out there because if that goes in, all the momentum’s on our side.”

Instead, it was Atlanta United winning its third final in as many tries at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, dating back to its MLS Cup victory in December before defeating América in the Campeones Cup earlier this month. Nevertheless, the club feels it is out for more, including a second straight league title.

Pity Martinez (right) of Atlanta United FC celebrates his goal with Justin Meram in the 2019 US Open Cup Final against Minnesota United FC. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United
Pity Martinez (right) of Atlanta United FC celebrates his goal with Justin Meram in the 2019 US Open Cup Final against Minnesota United FC. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United

“It’s a feeling of ‘Yeah, we’ll enjoy this tonight,” said Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who won the US Open Cup for the first time. “We understand what it’s about to win trophies and win big tournaments. Ultimately, there’s a big one later on in a few months.”

Beyond that, the potential of having a second attempt at becoming the first MLS side to win the CONCACAF Champions League lies ahead after a disappointing showing earlier this year.

“We certainly weren’t at our best at the beginning of the year,” said Guzan. “Now, to have a second go at it, we want to try and show that we can compete with the best in the region. Champions League obviously allows us that opportunity, but we’re certainly better than what we showed this year in Champions League. I think next year could be potentially a different showing if we make sure we get off to a good start.”

All but one player who saw the field for Atlanta United in the Final won the US Open Cup for the first time. Jeff Larentowicz came on as a sub in the 85th minute, lifting the trophy for the second time in his career. Larentowicz, along with Michael Parkhurst, both won the tournament in 2007 as members of the New England Revolution. The 12-year gap in between US Open Cup titles ties the record set by D.C. United legend Jaime Moreno (1996, 2008).

For Minnesota’s Osvaldo Alonso, he fell short of winning a Modern Era record fifth tournament title, but he extended his own record by playing in his seventh US Open Cup Final.

One more historical tidbit: Tuesday’s championship game was the 13th US Open Cup game to be hosted indoors, but it was the first time in the history of the tournament that a championship game was held indoors.

¡DALE CAMPEÓN! 🍾 pic.twitter.com/1yQRilllzb

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 28, 2019

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

#USOC2019 ESSENTIALS
2019 US Open Cup Schedule/Results (with links to every match report)
2019 US Open Cup statistical leaders (Goals, Assists, GKs)
2019 US Open Cup bracket (TheCup.us)

All-Time Career US Open Cup Final goalscorers (1913-present)

2019 US Open Cup Round 1: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 2: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 3: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 4: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round of 16: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Semifinals: Atlanta United blank Orlando City to become first Georgia team to reach the Final
2019 US Open Cup Semifinals: Mason Toye’s winner sends Minnesota United past Timbers, into first-ever Final

Appreciate what we do? Help improve our coverage by joining TheCup.us Patreon team!

VISIT THECUP.US STORE

NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference adds matches to end of regular season to try to make 4 of 5 teams 2020 US Open Cup eligible
Every US Open Cup game to stream on ESPN+ in multi-year media rights deal

THECUP.US PLAYER OF THE ROUND
Round 1: Charles Boateng – Richmond Kickers
Round 2: Bryant Martin – Florida Soccer Soldiers
Round 3: Blake Frischknecht – Orange County FC
Round 4: Teal Bunbury – New England Revolution
Round of 16: Sam Fink – Saint Louis FC
Quarterfinals: Adam Grinwis – Orlando City SC
Semifinals: Mason Toye – Minnesota United FC

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

#USOC2020 QUALIFYING
First Round matchups for Open Division Local tournament announced
Newtown Pride FC win first Amateur Cup title, qualify for 2020 US Open Cup
Which USL League Two teams could qualify for 2020 US Open Cup?
Which NPSL teams could qualify for 2020 US Open Cup?

#USOC2019 QUALIFYING
2019 US Open Cup qualifying schedule/results
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Final Round game-by-game review
Florida Soccer Soldiers qualify for first time after America SC withdraws
More pros, less amateurs, an extra sub in 2019 US Open Cup format
Chattanooga FC qualifies for 2019 US Open Cup, but opts out
Bavarian SC qualify for 2019 US Open Cup by winning Amateur Cup title

MEET THE UNDERDOGS SERIES
Milwaukee’s Bavarian Soccer Club, proudly amateur since 1929
West Chester United battle tested from long journey back to US Open Cup
NTX Rayados grooming “new generation” to keep qualifying streak going
Academica SC earns first US Open Cup berth after more than 40 years as a club
FC Denver using US Open Cup to build to “higher level”
First year Florida Soccer Soldiers winning with “respect, pride and commitment”

Filed Under: 2019 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2019 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Minnesota United FC

2019 US Open Cup Final preview: First-time finalists face off as Atlanta United hosts Minnesota United

August 21, 2019 by Jeremiah Braeback

2019 US Open Cup Final banner

2019 US Open Cup Final banner
Graphic by Dallas Kreil | IG: @dak_design

Lamar Hunt US Open Cup glory is on the line, as Minnesota United FC heads to Atlanta to face off with Atlanta United FC at Merecedes-Benz Stadium on Tuesday night.

There is plenty of history that could be made because not only has neither team won the US Open Cup, but no team from the state of Minnesota or Georgia have ever won the tournament in the 106-year history of the competition. Not only that, but Tuesday night is expected to draw the largest crowd to ever witness a US Open Cup game. The last time Atlanta United hosted a US Open Cup game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was last year against the Chicago Fire. That game was the Round of 16, and it drew 41,012, which shattered the tournament’s all-time attendance record. If that was the Round of 16, then it’s probably safe to say that the championship game, with a trophy, $300,000 and a spot in the 2020 CONCACAF Champions League on the line, it’s very likely that record will fall.

The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ at 8 p.m. Eastern Time with a pregame show beginning at 7:45 p.m. Eastern Time.

Below is a preview of the 106th US Open Cup Final (with links to live video and other US Open Cup coverage):

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

#USOC2019 ESSENTIALS
2019 US Open Cup Schedule/Results (with links to every match report)
2019 US Open Cup statistical leaders (Goals, Assists, GKs)
2019 US Open Cup bracket (TheCup.us)

All-Time Career US Open Cup Final goalscorers (1913-present)

2019 US Open Cup Round 1: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 2: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 3: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 4: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round of 16: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Semifinals: Atlanta United blank Orlando City to become first Georgia team to reach the Final
2019 US Open Cup Semifinals: Mason Toye’s winner sends Minnesota United past Timbers, into first-ever Final

Appreciate what we do? Help improve our coverage by joining TheCup.us Patreon team!

VISIT THECUP.US STORE

NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference adds matches to end of regular season to try to make 4 of 5 teams 2020 US Open Cup eligible
Every US Open Cup game to stream on ESPN+ in multi-year media rights deal

THECUP.US PLAYER OF THE ROUND
Round 1: Charles Boateng – Richmond Kickers
Round 2: Bryant Martin – Florida Soccer Soldiers
Round 3: Blake Frischknecht – Orange County FC
Round 4: Teal Bunbury – New England Revolution
Round of 16: Sam Fink – Saint Louis FC
Quarterfinals: Adam Grinwis – Orlando City SC
Semifinals: Mason Toye – Minnesota United FC

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

#USOC2020 QUALIFYING
First Round matchups for Open Division Local tournament announced
Newtown Pride FC win first Amateur Cup title, qualify for 2020 US Open Cup
Which USL League Two teams could qualify for 2020 US Open Cup?
Which NPSL teams could qualify for 2020 US Open Cup?

#USOC2019 QUALIFYING
2019 US Open Cup qualifying schedule/results
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Final Round game-by-game review
Florida Soccer Soldiers qualify for first time after America SC withdraws
More pros, less amateurs, an extra sub in 2019 US Open Cup format
Chattanooga FC qualifies for 2019 US Open Cup, but opts out
Bavarian SC qualify for 2019 US Open Cup by winning Amateur Cup title

MEET THE UNDERDOGS SERIES
Milwaukee’s Bavarian Soccer Club, proudly amateur since 1929
West Chester United battle tested from long journey back to US Open Cup
NTX Rayados grooming “new generation” to keep qualifying streak going
Academica SC earns first US Open Cup berth after more than 40 years as a club
FC Denver using US Open Cup to build to “higher level”
First year Florida Soccer Soldiers winning with “respect, pride and commitment”

HOW THEY GOT HERE

Mason Toye (right) of Minnesota United celebrates his goal with teammate Darwin Quintero in the club's 2019 US Open Cup Semifinal match against the Portland Timbers. Photo: Minnesota United FC
Mason Toye (right) of Minnesota United celebrates his goal with teammate Darwin Quintero in the club’s 2019 US Open Cup Semifinal match against the Portland Timbers. Photo: Minnesota United FC

Minnesota United kicked off their Open Cup run by welcoming four-time champion Sporting Kansas City to their new home at Allianz Field. United quickly took the lead in the 2nd minute from Angelo Rodriguez, saw Sporting equalize midway through the first half, then dropped three goals (one from Ethan Finlay and a brace from Darwin Quintero) in the second half for a 4-1 victory. In their second match against the Houston Dynamo, United traveled to BBVA Stadium and went down 2-0 in the first half only to see Quintero bring them level with a second half brace. Then, an 89th minute goal from Mason Toye sent Minnesota into the next round.

In the Quarterfinals, Minnesota hosted USL Championship side New Mexico FC. After giving up an early goal, the Loons quickly equalized, then added five more goals in a 6-1 victory, as Rodriguez netted a hat trick and Quintero, Jan Gregus, and Miguel Ibarra each added goals.

In the Semifinals, it was Mason Toye to the rescue again as he broke a 1-1 tie when he ran on to an outlet pass by Kevin Molino and bent the ball around Portland Timbers goalkeeper Steve Clark to lift Minnesota to the title game, 2-1. His goal and overall performance was enough to earn him TheCup.us Player of the Round honors.

Atlanta United was paired up with the Charleston Battery for the third straight year in their opening game in the Fourth Round, but after weather forced the match from South Carolina to Georgia, they ended up winning a closed-door game 3-1. Brandon Vazquez led the way with a pair of extra time goals. Five days later, Vazquez registered another brace as Atlanta took down the Columbus Crew 3-2 on June 18. Atlanta punched its ticket to the semifinal on July 10 as Pity Martinez’s 52nd-minute goal stood as the game winner in a 2-0 victory over second-division Saint Louis FC. They followed that up with another 2-0 win, this time on the road against Orlando City SC. Eric Remedi and Emerson Hyndman each scored a goal and Brad Guzan picked up the clean sheet in goal to advance to the championship game.

Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United
Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United

RECENT FORM

Minnesota has been up and down in August. After defeating the Portland Timbers 1-0 in MLS play on Aug. 3 and 2-1 on Aug. 7 in the US Open Cup Semifinals, the Loons lost 5-3 to FC Dallas in an eight-goal thriller. The Loons then defeated the Colorado Rapids 1-0 and drew Orlando City 1-1, and most recently lost to Sporting Kansas City, 1-0. Minnesota is currently tied with the LA Galaxy for fourth place in the Western Conference, just one point behind Real Salt Lake and the Seattle Sounders who are tied for second.

Atlanta is undefeated in the month of August and are riding a six-game winning streak across all competitions, including eight of their last nine. After kicking off the month with a 3-0 victory over the LA Galaxy, and their 2-0 Semifinal victory over Orlando City, United defeated New York City FC 2-1 and captured the Campeones Cup title with a 3-2 victory over Club America. In recent weeks, Atlanta defeated Portland 2-0 and Orlando City 1-0. They are currently tied for first place in the Eastern Conference with the Philadelphia Union (15-9-3), and they have a game in hand.

PAST MEETINGS

Atlanta has had the upper hand against Minnesota since both sides joined MLS in 2017. In their first meeting, Atlanta defeated Minnesota 6-1 at TCF Bank Stadium on March 12, 2017, while the Loons were able to hand Atlanta their first-ever loss at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, winning 3-2 on Oct. 3.

With MLS switching schedule format prior to the 2018 season, Minnesota and Atlanta have only met once in the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Once again meeting early in the season, Atlanta defeated Minnesota 1-0. Earlier this season, Atlanta was again victorious over the Loons, using goals from Franco Escobar and a late brace from Josef Martinez to put the match away.

US OPEN CUP HISTORY

Minnesota United FC (MLS)
10th US Open Cup appearance (3rd as MLS team)
Overall: 9-7-2 (1-1 PK) | 4-2-1 (1-0 PK) as MLS team
Away: 5-4-2 | 3-2-0 as MLS team
vs. MLS: 4-5-0 | 3-2-0 as MLS team
Best finish: 2018 Fifth Round
(USSF Div. 2 in 2010, NASL from 2011-16)

Atlanta United FC (MLS)
3rd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 6-2-0
Home: 4-1-0
vs. MLS: 2-1-0
Best finish: Fifth Round (2017, 2018)

Photo: Houston Dynamo

Atlanta United, who had their US Open Cup runs end in the Round of 16 in each of their first two seasons, have finally broken through to the Final this year. The state of Georgia has never had a team even reach the title game, much less lift the US Open Cup trophy in the 106-year history of the tournament. In fact, United are the first Georgia club to reach the final four in 38 years. Only two teams from the Peach State have reached the Semis: Atlanta Wolves were the first in 1980, followed by Datagraphic in 1981.

Minnesota United made their debut as a club in 2010 in the USSF’s Division 2 league as the NSC Minnesota Stars FC. They were among the teams that joined the new version of the NASL when it launched in 2011. They rebranded as Minnesota Stars FC in 2012 and made their US Open Cup debut where they made a big splash with an upset, on the road, against Real Salt Lake (MLS). After changing their name to Minnesota United in 2013, they would only only two more wins in the following four tournaments before joining MLS in 2017. After being one-and-done against eventual champion Sporting Kansas City in 2017, they would eliminate USL side FC Cincinnati in penalty kicks before falling to last year’s eventual champion, the Houston Dynamo.

This year’s trip to the Final is, by far, their best Open Cup run in team history.

The state of Minnesota has very little Open Cup history. Not necessarily for a lack of participation, but the state of Minnesota didn’t have a team reach the Quarterfinals until the A-League’s Minnesota Thunder did it in 2004. According to TheCup.us records, the first Minnesota-based club to enter the tournament was the Minneapolis Tigers who lost in the opening round of the 1958/59 tournament. In the Modern Era, there have been very few entries. Combined with Minnesota United, Duluth FC qualifying for the 2018 US Open Cup marked the first time since 1995 that multiple Minnesota teams qualified for the same tournament. No Open Division Local team from Minnesota has ever qualified in the Modern Era.

WHY MINNESOTA UNITED WILL WIN

By Jeremiah Braeback

Most US Open Cup championships (All-Time)
   
Billy Gonsalves 8
Fall River Marksmen / New Bedford Whalers 1930-32
Stix, Baer & Fuller / Central Breweries 1933-35
Brooklyn Hispano 1943-44
Bill McPherson 7
Fall River Marksmen / New Bedford Whalers 1924, 1927, 1930-32
Stix, Baer & Fuller 1933-34
Alec McNab 6
Fall River Marksmen / New Bedford Whalers 1930-32
Stix, Baer & Fuller / Central Breweries 1933-35
Nate Jaqua 5
Chicago Fire 2003, 2006
Seattle Sounders FC 2009-11
Werner Nilsen 5
Fall River Marksmen / New Bedford Whalers 1930-32
Stix, Baer & Fuller 1933-34
James Riley 5
New England Revolution 2007
Seattle Sounders FC 2009-11
D.C. United 2013
Osvaldo Alonso 4
Seattle Sounders FC 2009-11, 2014
15 others tied with four Source: TheCup.us

The Loons have proven to have an explosive offense in the US Open Cup. They are led by midfielder Darwin Quintero, who leads all scorers in the tournament with six goals, leaving him one goal away from breaking the Modern Era record for goals in a single tournament. The Loons have scored a total of 15 goals over their previous four matches, while Angelo Rodriquez (who is listed as questionable for the Final) has added four goals and Mason Toye has two game-winning goals, including the one that sent Minnesota to the Final. Their offense has been on full display in their victories over Sporting Kansas City, Houston Dynamo, and New Mexico United, scoring three goals in a 21-minute period against KC, and following that with three goals in 23 minutes against Houston, and hanging four goals on New Mexico in 13 minutes.

For the Loons, to find this kind of success against Atlanta, the Loons will have to get on the front foot and take control early in the match, breaking through an Atlanta defense that is one of the best in MLS and has only allowed three goals in the tournament, while also containing Josef Martinez, who has scored in 12 consecutive MLS matches, a league record.

The Loons will win with their defense showing up and helping goalkeeper Vito Mannone add to his shutout total, which currently stands at nine on the season in MLS play. Romain Metanire will recapture his early season form and Ozzie Alonso (who is expected to play in his Modern Era record sixth US Open Cup Final, as he tries to lift the trophy for a record-tying fifth time), Jan Gregus, and Ike Opara will control the center of the pitch, which will free up the attack for Rodriguez, Quintero, and Toye, with a splash of attack coming from Hassani Dotson and Metanire out of the back, and Miguel Ibarra finding the attacking flair that put him on the US National Team radar a few years ago. With all of these pieces clicking, the Loons will lift their first trophy since winning the 2011 NASL championship.

WHY ATLANTA UNITED WILL WIN

By Sydney Hunte

Any tactical plan for Atlanta United has to center around keeping the prolific Josef Martinez at bay. The Venezuelan is having yet another remarkable season: 24 goals in 26 matches spanning all competitions and an MLS-record 12-match scoring streak. It’s no coincidence that Atlanta has found itself at the top of the Eastern Conference table with Martinez simply doing what he does best, and it will be a tough ask for Minnesota to keep him off the scoresheet. That’s not to mention fellow designated players Ezequiel Barco and Pity Martinez. Despite Barco still working his way back into form after an extended absence and some uneven performances from Pity Martinez, Atlanta’s attacking corps will present a massive challenge for Minnesota’s defense.

One change that has helped Atlanta shake off a sluggish beginning to the season was a formation switch to a 3-5-2. This allows the team to work the ball along the ends of the pitch, allowing players like Justin Meram and Julian Gressel to push the ball upfield and get crosses into the box to allow opportunities for Martinez to score. Darlington Nagbe is another key player to watch – he won’t be relied on for his goalscoring ability, but for his ability in the middle of the pitch which is an underrated aspect of his game that helps unlock offensive opportunities for his forwards. Miles Robinson, playing alongside Leandro Gonzalez Pirez on the backline, has quickly made a case for himself as one of the top center backs in MLS.

As a result, Atlanta’s recent play has been brilliant, having won its last six across all competitions and holding an 11-0-1 mark in its last 12 matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium – including a stirring 3-2 win over Liga MX’s Club América in Campeones Cup on Aug. 14. This is a club that doesn’t lose much in its own building, and with a massive crowd expected, Atlanta should be able to ride the home support to its second trophy of the season.

Filed Under: 2019 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2019 US Open Cup Final, Atlanta United FC, Minnesota United FC, Preview

2019 US Open Cup Semifinals: Atlanta United blank Orlando City to become first Georgia team to reach the Final

August 7, 2019 by Neil Blackmon

Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal in a 2019 US Open Cup Semifinal match against Orlando City. Photo: Atlanta United FC

Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal in a 2019 US Open Cup Semifinal match against Orlando City. Photo: Atlanta United FC
Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal in a 2019 US Open Cup Semifinal match against Orlando City. Photo: Atlanta United FC

Atlanta United defeated Orlando City 2-0 Tuesday night at Exploria Stadium in Orlando, advancing to the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Final. United will host the championship game on Aug. 27 and will be the first Georgia-based club in the 106-year history of the tournament to reach the Final.

“Obviously, it’s an honor to advance to the Final of the US Open Cup,” Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan said after the game. “It’s a storied competition, and it’s something we haven’t accomplished in Atlanta. We have a MLS Cup. We’d love to add another trophy.”

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

The berth to the final wouldn’t come easy for Atlanta, who were playing on short rest in a raucous environment that saw an Orlando City record crowd of 18,461 come with hopes that the purple and gold would be the club making history, advancing to their first US Open Cup Final and playing for a trophy of their own. Orlando City’s famed “Wall” of supporters pour into the stadium well over an hour prior to kickoff and chant and sing and cheer all the way to the final whistle.

It was a ringing retort to those who wonder if this competition truly “means anything.”

For Orlando, it meant everything.

Entering Tuesday night’s Open Cup contest, Orlando City were winless against Atlanta United in seven tries, posting a 0-5-2 mark that included three losses in Orlando City Stadium. It’s a sore spot for Orlando City supporters, who, with their boisterous crowds and unique supporters culture were the darlings of American soccer before their rivals from the Peach State arrived on the scene in 2017, commanding continental attention with their enormous, record-shattering home crowds and capturing hearts with their free-flowing, open, attacking style of play. As Orlando City struggled on the field, failing to qualify for the playoffs, Atlanta surged to early success, reaching the MLS playoffs in their inaugural campaign and winning MLS Cup, and with it, the city of Atlanta’s second major sports championship last year in only their second season.

The constant defeats to Atlanta and the way Atlanta’s team and soccer culture have quickly become a shining success story within the American soccer fabric, has worn into the psyche of Orlando City players and supporters alike, who greeted Atlanta United with clattering tackles, trash talk, and the collective crowd jeers of a jaded little brother. Even Orlando City’s supporters TIFO was salty; evoking Tarantino’s Kill Bill films, it read: “You and I have unfinished business.”

Ezequiel Barco of Atlanta United dribbles the ball against Orlando City in a 2019 US Open Cup Semifinal match. Photo: Atlanta United FC
Ezequiel Barco of Atlanta United dribbles the ball against Orlando City in a 2019 US Open Cup Semifinal match. Photo: Atlanta United FC

For all the pregame hype and adrenaline on the Orlando City side, it was all Atlanta United in the early stages. The Five Stripes nearly scored on an early corner, with Leandro Gonzalez Pirez’s unmarked header sailing just over the net. Minutes later, it was Miles Robinson’s turn to latch onto a lovely set piece delivery, but his free header from seven yards drifted surprisingly wide left. Finally, after a Will Johnson foul in zone 14, Pity Martinez’s set piece from a terrific angle deflected off Sacha Kljestan- another golden chance spoiled. Martinez would also miss wide from the run of play in the fifteenth minute, a frustrating start to the game in what has been a disappointing first MLS campaign for the Argentine.

Orlando’s best chance in the first half came when Dom Dwyer latched onto a clever, slicing ball from Nani only to put the ball mystifyingly high from seven yards.

Dwyer came to Orlando City in a record deal worth well over $1.5 million in 2017. Fresh off his first US national team appearances and a strong run of form with Sporting Kansas City, the thought was that Dwyer– who had broken through in professional soccer playing for Orlando City in the club’s USL Pro days–would inject new life into an Orlando City attack that had gone moribund in the wake of Cyle Larin’s injuries and off-field issues and the retirement of the legendary Kaka.

It hasn’t worked according to plan.

? The moments that secured our spot in the #USOC2019 final pic.twitter.com/eEee3HNifM

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 7, 2019

Yes, Dwyer has 22 goals for the purple and gold in just over two years. But all too often, especially this season, he’s been absent when the frontline has needed him most, battling with consistency issues and in and out of manager James O’Connor’s doghouse.

When you pay over $700,000 in future allocation money for a player, you expect them to deliver, especially in the club’s biggest moments. That Dwyer didn’t deliver, only 18 minutes into the biggest game in the history of the club that spent so much money to acquire him, changed the complexion of this Open Cup semifinal and sadly for Orlando, may have been the moment the magic ran out of the club’s joyous Open Cup run.

“We need to better in big spots, take our chances,” Orlando City manager James O’Connor said following the game. “I thought we were tentative, and Dom missed a big chance there early, you have to take those. Credit to Atlanta. They don’t miss those.. You wondered if the moment was too large for us at times in the first half.

Put plainly, Orlando weren’t the same side after the Dwyer miss.

Atlanta nearly took the lead in the 29th minute, when deep-lying midfielder Eric Remedi picked up the ball after a corner clearance and made his way to the edge of the area without much resistance before rifling a shot goalward that was turned away by quarterfinal hero Adam Grinwis.

But the breakthrough was coming, and in the 37th minute, the peach-clad Georgians ended the deadlock.

Hector Villalba (left) of Atlanta United battles for the ball against Orlando City in the 2019 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: Atlanta United FC
Hector Villalba (left) of Atlanta United battles for the ball against Orlando City in the 2019 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: Atlanta United FC

Another late, deep secondary run from Remedi forced Grinwis into a punch save, but Julian Gressel quickly collected the rebound and squared it back to Remedi, who had lingered in the area to finish the play. On the second chance, Remedi didn’t miss, scoring for the first time in Atlanta United’s 2019 campaign and giving Atlanta a 1-0 lead.

The Five Stripes nearly doubled their lead minutes later when Ezequiel Barco dropped off a lovely ball to Pity, but the Argentine’s hard and low effort was parried away well by Grinwis at the far post.

All told, it was a dominant opening half performance from the reigning MLS champs, who controlled possession, had five shots on target to Orlando’s one, and earned eight set piece opportunities (corners, free kicks) to only one for Orlando.

“I think if you see the first half, I think we were much better and I think we could have punished them more than once,” said Atlanta United head coach Frank de Boer. “Of course they had one very good chance, but overall the first half was for us and the second half they put a lot of energy in. I think also, of course it’s very tiring after three days you play again and in this heat. I have to give a very big compliment, they fought like Lions, they defended like Lions and also tried to attack.”

Orlando City came on fighting early in the second half.

“We were much better in the second half, we showed character and fight. We spent a good deal of time camped in their half,” O’Connor said.

A good sequence saw Ruan cross well to Dwyer, who appeared to have tremendous position only to see his point blank shot sail high after a spectacular last-ditch challenge from Franco Escobar. In the 53rd minute, it was Sacha Kljestan’s chance to equalize off a Nani dime, only to see the US international arrive just a moment late, failing to hit the chance squarely as it sailed just over Brad Guzan’s net.

By the hour mark, both Dwyer and Kljestan, two of Orlando City’s higher-priced talents, were off the pitch, replaced by homegrown forward Benji Michel, hero of Orlando City’s round of 16 victory, and Chris Mueller, one of the Lions more dynamic attacking talents now filling a bench role.

Mueller and Michel certainly helped Orlando City’s energy, and thanks to a dynamic Sebastián Méndez, the purple and gold certainly kept the pressure on Atlanta United’s defense for much of the second half.

But in the end, it was ultimately Atlanta who would add to their total.

Eric Remedi won a second ball, took a touch towards the center of the midfield and laced a probing ball to Franco Escobar, darting down the left flank. Escobar handled the ball well and crossed to an onrunning Emerson Hyndman in traffic, and the former Fulham and Bournemouth man did the rest, slotting past Grinwis and giving the Five Stripes the insurance goal.

After the second Atlanta goal, the fatigue of a short turnaround and the early August heat put the game in a vise grip, with neither side particularly threatening late as the Five Stripes sealed the 2-0 win.

“We had opportunities and finally we get a relieving goal to score and make it 2-0 and then it was all over,” said de Boer. “I think it was a good performance. You know they’re going to press and try to do everything with two fast guys in, but I think we still managed to do a good job and I’m very proud of the team.”

With an announced crowd of 18,461, Orlando City SC supporters achieved the third-largest Semifinal attendance in US Open Cup history. Photo: @OrlandoCitySC Twitter
With an announced crowd of 18,461, Orlando City SC supporters achieved the third-largest Semifinal attendance in US Open Cup history. Photo: @OrlandoCitySC Twitter

As for Orlando, the best Open Cup run in club history is over. But there’s lessons to be learned culturally, said Sacha Kljestan, who has played at Supporters Shield winning and Champions League cultures with New York Red Bulls and Anderlecht.

“We are getting better; the culture is getting better,” Kljestan said. “We are learning how to win, but winning is a habit. You have to learn to play in big moments. Atlanta United- they have that culture, having won MLS Cup last season. We’re building it. It sucks right now. People are hurting. The locker room is sad. But the hurt is part of building it, bettering it. The season isn’t over.”

“We are learning how to win. We’re getting better. Winning is a habit. We are building a better culture, but you learn to play in big moments. Atlanta has that culture. For us, It sucks right now, we are hurting, but it’s a part of building it. Season isn’t over.”

Despite a disappointing result, Orlando City fans walk away with something to be proud of. According to TheCup.us records, the announced crowd of 18,461 was the third-largest Semifinal attendance in the 106-year history of the competition.

For Atlanta, they have a chance to become the first Georgia team to win the US Open Cup title, and the team is well aware of the challenge ahead of them.

“It’s never easy to get to a final. It’s a knockout format and that’s never easy,” said Emerson Hyndman. “In the league you can have a bad result and put it right, where as these one-off games they can be difficult if you make it difficult. I thought tonight, obviously playing away from home, we knew it was going to be a difficult game. Thankfully we scored the first goal in the first half and could open up a little bit, good thing we got the clincher. It was a really good feeling all around.”

#USOC2019 ESSENTIALS
2019 US Open Cup Schedule/Results (with links to every match report)
2019 US Open Cup statistical leaders (Goals, Assists, GKs)
2019 US Open Cup bracket (TheCup.us)

USSF announces hosts for 2019 US Open Cup Semifinals, hosting priority for 2019 Final

2019 US Open Cup Round 1: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 2: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 3: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 4: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round of 16: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Game-by-game review

Appreciate what we do? Help improve our coverage by joining TheCup.us Patreon team!

VISIT THECUP.US STORE

NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference adds matches to end of regular season to try to make 4 of 5 teams 2020 US Open Cup eligible
Every US Open Cup game to stream on ESPN+ in multi-year media rights deal

THECUP.US PLAYER OF THE ROUND
Round 1: Charles Boateng – Richmond Kickers
Round 2: Bryant Martin – Florida Soccer Soldiers
Round 3: Blake Frischknecht – Orange County FC
Round 4: Teal Bunbury – New England Revolution
Round of 16: Sam Fink – Saint Louis FC
Quarterfinals: Adam Grinwis – Orlando City SC

#USOC2020 QUALIFYING
Newtown Pride FC win first Amateur Cup title, qualify for 2020 US Open Cup
Which USL League Two teams could qualify for 2020 US Open Cup?

Filed Under: 2019 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2019 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Orlando City SC

2019 US Open Cup Semifinals Preview: Atlanta United, Orlando City both seek first title game appearance tonight

August 5, 2019 by Sydney Hunte

Graphic by Dallas Kreil | IG: @dak_design

Graphic by Dallas Kreil | IG: @dak_design
Graphic by Dallas Kreil | IG: @dak_design

The first of two games of the Semifinals of the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup kick off on Tuesday night with Orlando City SC hosting Atlanta United FC. On Wednesday, Minnesota United FC will host the Portland Timbers (8 p.m. ET) to round out a semifinal round featuring four teams that have never won the US Open Cup. This marks just the 10th time in the 106-year history of the tournament where the entire final four has never reached the Final.

The winners will advance to the championship game which will take place on Aug. 27. If Atlanta advances, they will host the winner of Minnesota and Portland. Minnesota United will only host the title game if they advance and Orlando City defeats Atlanta. Orlando City can only host the Final if they advance and Portland defeats Minnesota.

Both Semifinals will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Since 2003, fans who wanted to follow the opening round of the second-oldest, continually-operating soccer tournament in the world, would have to rely on updates from this site, or, in later years, the occasional live audio or video stream. Now, fans who are unable to attend a match in person, can watch every game from the comfort of their home, or through their favorite mobile device.

Below is a preview of the Atlanta / Orlando game (with links to live video and other US Open Cup coverage):

#USOC2019 ESSENTIALS
2019 US Open Cup Schedule/Results (with links to every match report)
2019 US Open Cup statistical leaders (Goals, Assists, GKs)
2019 US Open Cup bracket (TheCup.us)

USSF announces hosts for 2019 US Open Cup Semifinals, hosting priority for 2019 Final

2019 US Open Cup Round 1: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 2: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 3: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 4: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round of 16: Game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Game-by-game review

Appreciate what we do? Help improve our coverage by joining TheCup.us Patreon team!

VISIT THECUP.US STORE

NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference adds matches to end of regular season to try to make 4 of 5 teams 2020 US Open Cup eligible
Every US Open Cup game to stream on ESPN+ in multi-year media rights deal

THECUP.US PLAYER OF THE ROUND
Round 1: Charles Boateng – Richmond Kickers
Round 2: Bryant Martin – Florida Soccer Soldiers
Round 3: Blake Frischknecht – Orange County FC
Round 4: Teal Bunbury – New England Revolution
Round of 16: Sam Fink – Saint Louis FC
Quarterfinals: Adam Grinwis – Orlando City SC

#USOC2020 QUALIFYING
Newtown Pride FC win first Amateur Cup title, qualify for 2020 US Open Cup
Which USL League Two teams could qualify for 2020 US Open Cup?

#USOC2019 QUALIFYING
2019 US Open Cup qualifying schedule/results
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 2 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Final Round game-by-game review
Florida Soccer Soldiers qualify for first time after America SC withdraws
More pros, less amateurs, an extra sub in 2019 US Open Cup format
Chattanooga FC qualifies for 2019 US Open Cup, but opts out
Bavarian SC qualify for 2019 US Open Cup by winning Amateur Cup title

MEET THE UNDERDOGS SERIES
Milwaukee’s Bavarian Soccer Club, proudly amateur since 1929
West Chester United battle tested from long journey back to US Open Cup
NTX Rayados grooming “new generation” to keep qualifying streak going
Academica SC earns first US Open Cup berth after more than 40 years as a club
FC Denver using US Open Cup to build to “higher level”
First year Florida Soccer Soldiers winning with “respect, pride and commitment”

Atlanta United FC (MLS) at Orlando City SC (MLS)
Exploria Stadium – Orlando, FL
Kickoff: August 6 – 7:30 p.m. ET
BROADCAST: ESPN+

 

Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United
Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United

Orlando City SC has never managed to beat rival Atlanta United in seven previous matches. With a chance to play for its first trophy on the line, its eighth matchup against the club from Georgia may have the most meaning to date.

Orlando and Atlanta square off in the first of two U.S. Open Cup semifinals on Tuesday evening at 7:30 at Exploria Stadium. The winner advances to its first-ever Open Cup Final, where it will face the winner of Wednesday’s Portland Timbers/Minnesota United contest on either August 27 or 28.

HOW THEY GOT HERE

Orlando City’s road to the Semifinals began with a 3-1 win at USL Championship side Memphis 901 behind second-half goals by Sacha Kljestan and Robin Jansson to break a 1-1 deadlock. That was followed by a 2-1 home win against the New England Revolution on June 19 on a pair of extra time goals by Benji Michel and Tesho Akindele, before drawing NYCFC 1-1 on July 10 and advancing behind a stirring 5-4 penalty shootout.

Atlanta United was paired up with the Charleston Battery for the third straight year in the Fourth Round, but after weather forced the match from South Carolina to Georgia, it ended up winning a closed-door game 3-1 thanks to two extra-time goals by Brandon Vazquez. Five days later, Vazquez registered another brace as Atlanta took down the Columbus Crew 3-2 on June 18. It punched its ticket to the semifinal on July 10 as Pity Martinez’s 52nd-minute goal stood as the game winner in a 2-0 victory over second-division Saint Louis FC.

RECENT FORM

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

While things have been solid at home for Atlanta United, its play away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium has caused fans the most concern. It has dropped six of its last seven on the road across all competitions, allowing 14 goals in its last four away games. On Saturday, Atlanta made MLS history by breaking their own regular season attendance record (72,548) with a 3-0 win over the LA Galaxy. With the win, United sits in second place in the Eastern Conference, and in third place in the overall league standings. Safe to say that if Atlanta gets past Orlando and hosts the US Open Cup Final, the tournament’s all-time attendance record of 41,012 (that Atlanta set last year) would likely be in jeopardy.

Meanwhile, Orlando City is 5-6-1 at Exploria Stadium but have won three of its last four at the venue in all competitions. After last Saturday’s 2-0 home win over FC Dallas, the Lions snapped a three-game winless streak (0-2-1). City now find themselves in ninth place in the Eastern Conference, four points shy of the last playoff spot.

PAST MEETINGS

This is the second time Atlanta and Orlando will meet this season, with Atlanta winning the first meeting 1-0 on May 12 through Pity Martinez’s first MLS goal. The Five Stripes lead the all-time series 5-0-2 and have won the last four meetings by a combined score of 9-1.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Players from Orlando City SC celebrate after a 5-4 PK win over NYCFC in the 2019 US Open Cup Quarterfinals. Photo: Orlando City SC
Players from Orlando City SC celebrate after a 5-4 PK win over NYCFC in the 2019 US Open Cup Quarterfinals. Photo: Orlando City SC

Brandon Vazquez, Atlanta’s all-time leader in US Open Cup goals (6), has a team-leading four goals in this year’s competition, which ranks second in the Golden Boot race. However, Vazquez has been ruled out of Tuesday’s match. Meanwhile, Orlando City has seen its scoring spread out a bit more in this year’s tournament, with Sacha Kljestan’s two goals in the win against Memphis leading the team. Four other players – Tesho Akindele, Robin Jansson, Benji Michel and Chris Mueller – have found the net.

Atlanta can be encouraged by the fact that several key members of its attack are slowly starting to return to health. Ezequiel Barco, who sustained an injury to his knee in the match against the Crew, played 31 minutes off the bench at LAFC on July 26 and played just over an hour in his return to Frank de Boer’s starting XI in a 3-0 win against the LA Galaxy on Saturday. Tito Villalba, who has not played since May 19, cracked the matchday 18 on Saturday and could be up for some minutes on Tuesday. The biggest name for Atlanta, though, will be Josef Martinez, who was with Venezuela at the Copa America during the first two Open Cup matches but scored a late penalty against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals. His last trip to Orlando? Aug. 25, 2018, when he broke the MLS single-season scoring record with his 28th goal. Martinez, however, there are indications that the reigning MLS MVP may not be traveling with the team to Orlando.  

On the other side of the field, Orlando City have a relatively clean bill of health and could have both Cristian Higuita and Will Johnson available to them on Tuesday. Nani and Tesho Akindele, who have scored eight goals each in MLS play, have a goal and assist between them during the Open Cup. A big question will be who Orlando sends out as goalkeeper on Tuesday. Adam Grinwis, the reigning TheCup.us Player of the Round winner for his performance in the Lions’ penalty shootout win over NYCFC in the Quarterfinals, has started all three US Open Cup matches so far, but has yet to make an appearance in league play. He may get the call over regular starter Brian Rowe.

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

 

 

US OPEN CUP HISTORY

 

Atlanta United FC (MLS)
3rd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 5-2-0
Away: 1-1-0
vs. MLS: 1-1-0
Best finish: Fifth Round (2017, 2018)

Orlando City SC (MLS)
11th US Open Cup appearance (5th as MLS team)
Overall: 17-10-3 (3-0 PK) | 5-4-3 (3-0 PK) as MLS team
Home: 11-3-1 (1-0 PK) | 2-2-1 (1-0 PK) as MLS team
vs. MLS: 4-8-2 (2-0 PK) | 2-2-2 (2-0 PK) as MLS team
Best finish: Quarterfinals (2013*, 2015, 2018)
* as USL PRO team (Div. 3 pro)

Both teams are in uncharted territory this year. Atlanta had never advanced past the Fifth Round of the competition in two previous tries, while Orlando City’s best showings were three trips to the Quarterfinals which ended in losses to the Philadelphia Union in 2018, the Chicago Fire in 2015, and again against the Fire in 2013 when they were a member of the USL Pro (Div. 3).

Atlanta United, who had their US Open Cup runs end in the Round of 16 in each of their first two seasons, have broken through to the Semifinals. The state of Georgia has never had a team lift the US Open Cup trophy in the 106-year history of the tournament. In fact, United are the first Georgia club to reach the final four in 38 years. Only two teams from the Peach State have reached the Semis: Atlanta Wolves were the first in 1980, followed by Datagraphic in 1981.

While this is the first trip to the final four for Orlando City, the club has been very competitive in the tournament dating back to their days in the USL. In the team’s 11 trips to the Open Cup, beginning in 2009 when they were the Austin Aztex in the USL First Division, they have only had one cup run end in a one-and-done situation (In 2017, they were upset by the NASL’s Miami FC). In their first six years as a USL team, they amassed a very respectable 12-6-0 record with two MLS scalps to their credit (both in 2013 vs. Colorado Rapids and defending champion Sporting Kansas City)

Orlando’s home state of Florida has not had a wealth of Open Cup success. Florida didn’t see a team reach the Semifinals until the Clearwater Chargers of the Florida Suncoast Soccer League reached the final four in 1979. Since then, the Kickers from St. Petersburg, Fla. (under a few different names) reached the Semifinals but failed to reach the Final in 1984, 1993 and famously in 1994. In 1994, the team forfeited their Semifinal match because several members of the team had purchased World Cup tickets months in advance. The Kickers’ one breakthrough came in 1989 when they eliminated Chicago’s AAC Eagles in penalty kicks before denying the New York Greek American Atlas a record-tying fifth championship with a 2-1 extra time win in Saint Louis. That 1989 team remains the only team from the Sunshine State to lift the trophy. The last Florida team to reach the Semifinals was the now-defunct Miami Fusion of MLS, who lost to the Chicago Fire in the 2000 championship game.

Josh Hakala also contributed to this report

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2019 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Orlando City SC, Preview

2019 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Atlanta United blank Saint Louis, becomes first Georgia team to reach Semis in 38 years

July 10, 2019 by Sydney Hunte

Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United

Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United
Players from Atlanta United celebrate a goal against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United

Atlanta United midfielder Pity Martinez had been saddled with criticism from his fans – and his coach – after a string of flat results. On Wednesday evening, the MLS club’s big-ticket offseason signing delivered.

Martinez’s goal in the 52nd minute on an assist from new signing Emerson Hyndman, and a stoppage-time penalty from Josef Martinez, led Atlanta to a 2-0 win over USL Championship team Saint Louis FC at Fifth Third Bank Stadium in Kennesaw, Ga.

Just over an hour after the final whistle, Orlando City and New York City FC played to a 1-1 draw, but Orlando defeated NYCFC 5-4 in penalties to set up a semifinal showdown with Atlanta in early August.

Highlights from our #USOC2019 quarterfinal thriller ? pic.twitter.com/xW6tNFAH1p

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) July 11, 2019

With the win, Atlanta United becomes the first Georgia-based club to reach the US Open Cup Semifinals since Datagraphics advanced to the final four in 1981.

“I think I can be very satisfied with the performance tonight,” said Atlanta coach Frank de Boer. “Maybe the last 15 minutes of the first half we were a little bit sloppy and they made one or two chances out of it, but for the rest we played really concentrated.”

Atlanta United dominated possession in the early going, choosing a patient approach in the attack while depending on the wing play of Justin Meram to create opportunities for Pity Martinez and the forward corps. Despite there being no goals to speak of throughout the first half hour, one appeared to be inevitable for the home side, but Saint Louis began to build confidence as the match went on and nearly scored off a corner routine in the 37th minute.

The breakthrough for Atlanta finally came in the 52nd minute. Emerson Hyndman dispossessed his man in the box and made clever work of it to lay it off to Pity Martinez – leaving the Argentinian with a pretty finish to make it 1-0.

“I kind of saw (the ball carrier) facing his own goal and just tried to jump it,” Hyndman said. “Thankfully it turned the right way for me and Pity made a great finish.”

Atlanta United fans cheer on their team against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United
Atlanta United fans cheer on their team against Saint Louis FC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Karl L. Moore | Atlanta United

Atlanta had several opportunities down the stretch to put the match away, but the final ball never found its target. That allowed a chance for Saint Louis to level the match with a succession of corners that they were never able to capitalize on. But late in stoppage time, a penalty awarded to Atlanta saw Josef Martinez confidently step up and convert to double the margin and see his team through to the semifinals.

“You could see the determination to avoid the equalizer in the last minute (with) three corner kicks, and how everybody was determined to not concede the goal,” de Boer said. “Then (we) got our reward in the end with the penalty.”

For Pity Martinez, tonight served as a bit of redemption. He was active on both sides of the field, and while it wasn’t a perfect showing, it provided some optimism for both his fans and his coach.

“I think he played a really good game,” de Boer said. “He knows he wants to see his level go up, and today he made a very good step. Hopefully he continue in that, and it’s great that he scored a goal of importance for the team.”

Despite the loss, Saint Louis FC won’t go home empty-handed. They have won the $25,000 Division 2 prize money as the second division team that has advanced the furthest. They earned the prize money in a tiebreaker with New Mexico United, who were also eliminated tonight. Saint Louis wins the tiebreaker of the number of wins over a team one division higher (MLS). Saint Louis had two, while New Mexico had one. New Mexico eliminated two MLS teams also, but one of them was by penalty kicks, and games that end in penalty kicks are officially listed as a draw.

Atlanta will either travel to or host Orlando in the first semifinal match for both teams. U.S. Soccer will conduct a draw at 2 p.m. Thursday, with the match to be played on either August 6 or 7.

Filed Under: 2019 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2019 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Saint Louis FC

2019 US Open Cup Round of 16: Brandon Vazquez brace leads Atlanta United past Columbus Crew, into first Quarterfinal

June 19, 2019 by Tyler Fisher

Brandon Vazquez of Atlanta United celebrates one of his goals with his teammates in his club's Round of 16 match against the Columbus Crew in the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Ralph Schudel | @schudel_ralph on Twitter and Instagram

Brandon Vazquez of Atlanta United celebrates one of his goals in the rain with teammate Justin Meram in his club's Round of 16 match against the Columbus Crew in the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Ralph Schudel | @schudel_ralph on Twitter and Instagram
Brandon Vazquez of Atlanta United celebrates one of his goals in the rain with teammate Justin Meram in his club’s Round of 16 match against the Columbus Crew in the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Ralph Schudel | @schudel_ralph on Twitter and Instagram


The Round of 16 of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup kicked off with Atlanta United traveling to MAPFRE Stadium to take on Columbus Crew SC in what seemed to be a reasonably overcast evening.

Unlike last time, where there were many showers of rain blessed upon the folks at MAPFRE Stadium, and Crew SC were victorious 2-0. That wasn’t the case this time around as Atlanta United defeated Columbus, 3-2 to punch their ticket to the Quarterfinals for the first time.
Atlanta United got the opening goal in the fifth minute when a poor giveaway from David Guzman gave Brandon Vazquez the room to slide the ball past goalkeeper Jon Kempin to give the away side a 1-0 lead.

“We have to recognize moments,” said Atlanta United head coach Frank de Boer. “Hey, you can’t sit back. You have to track back sometimes. Sometimes an opponent will push you back. I think that’s the most important thing. We lost a little bit of the initiative. We always want the initiative.”
Columbus had a decent look on goal in the eighth minute when David Accam found Patrick Mullins inside the penalty area for a shot on goal. Atlanta keeper Brad Guzan was there for the save, however.
Miles Robinson doubled United’s lead when Barco served in a corner kick and Robinson got his head on the end of the service.

Let’s keep this going ??

Highlights from another knockout win ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/4bc92kdjSH

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) June 19, 2019

After 15 minutes, Crew SC found themselves down at home. As time progressed, Columbus found themselves getting stronger, gaining more possession, but Atlanta found a way to keep the Black and Gold at bay.
Atlanta nearly got a third in the 37th minute when former Crew winger Justin Meram found space inside the penalty area to take a shot, but it went just wide of the frame and out for a goal kick.
Vazquez almost got his second goal of the game when another bad backpass let Vazquez in on goal all alone, but his sharp-angle attempt hit the far post and back into play.
Columbus would get a goal back in the 40th minute when David Accam got his second goal in as many US Open Cup matches to cut the deficit to one goal.
Columbus would hold the halftime momentum from Accam’s goal as both teams would go to their respective locker rooms, Atlanta holding the 2-1 advantage.
The second half brought Deja Vu when the rain started falling heavily.
Atlanta would extend their league when Vazquez notched his brace in the 65th minute, slotting the ball past Kempin at the far post to extend the lead to 3-1.
Vazquez is now tied for the tournament lead in goals with four, alongside the Richmond Kickers’ Charles Boateng.
Waylon Francis made his return to the Crew SC lineup with a bang, pulling Columbus within one yet again in the 71st minute when his shot took a deflection off of an Atlanta defender and into the back of the net.
Minutes later, Mother Nature got involved when a severe weather delay was placed in effect in the 75th minute. This would be good for Columbus as they attempted to regroup during the break, hoping to score an equalizer in the final 15 minutes.

Brandon Vazquez of Atlanta United celebrates one of his goals with his teammates in his club's Round of 16 match against the Columbus Crew in the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Ralph Schudel | @schudel_ralph on Twitter and Instagram
Brandon Vazquez of Atlanta United celebrates one of his goals with his teammates in his club’s Round of 16 match against the Columbus Crew in the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Ralph Schudel | @schudel_ralph on Twitter and Instagram

After approximately 49 minutes, the game resumed after both teams agreed to have a 10-minute warm up.

After play resumed, neither team was able to find another goal, but the game didn’t end without controversy.

In the final minute of the match, Accam was brought down in the penalty area but center official Guido Gonzalez Jr. decided not to award a penalty kick. The entire Columbus bench and staff swarmed the referee to offer their opinion on the no-call.
“The way that the official handled the last 15 minutes was shocking,” said a baffled and irate Caleb Porter. “It’s one of the tough things about this competition. They trial officials and see how they do. It’s disappointing. These games, there’s a lot at stake. You need high-level officials that know how to smell a game and manage it.”
With Columbus still struggling to get past the Round of 16 in the U.S. Open Cup, their attention now is focused on the real prize, and that’s making a hard push for the playoffs during league play.
“With the Open Cup gone, we’re going to throw everything into the last 18 games, and we need to approach these games with the same attitude, effort, and density.”
Atlanta will now await the winner of Saint Louis FC and FC Cincinnati in the Round of Eight.

“We only go for one thing and that’s to win the cup,” said de Boer.
With the win, this is Atlanta’s first trip to the Quarterfinals, They are the first Georgia team to reach the Quarterfinals since 2014 Atlanta Silverbacks led by head coach Eric Wynalda.

Filed Under: 2019 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2019 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Columbus Crew

2019 US Open Cup Round 4: Brandon Vazquez helps Atlanta United pull away in OT for 3rd straight win over Charleston Battery

June 14, 2019 by Sydney Hunte

Brandon Vasquez of Atlanta United celebrates against the Charleston Battery in the Fourth Round of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Atlanta United

Brandon Vasquez of Atlanta United celebrates against the Charleston Battery in the Fourth Round of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Atlanta United
Brandon Vazquez of Atlanta United celebrates against the Charleston Battery in the Fourth Round of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Atlanta United

Coming off an over two-month spell off the soccer field due to an MCL injury, Atlanta United forward Brandon Vazquez hoped to dispel a frustrating season and make the most of a rare opportunity during the club’s 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Fourth Round matchup against the Charleston Battery of the USL Championship.

He made the most of that chance on Thursday evening.

Vazquez broke a 1-1 deadlock in the 110th minute, and added a second goal in stoppage time of the second extra time session, to send Atlanta United to a 3-1 win over the Charleston Battery at Fifth Third Bank Stadium in Kennesaw, Ga.

“It definitely helped my confidence,” said Vazquez, who came on in the 74th minute for his second appearance between Atlanta’s first and second team in a week after none since late March. “I’ve been out for a couple months now so this was definitely good for me, and my mentality coming on is right where I want it to be.”

It was a bit of delayed gratification for Atlanta, who were originally set to play the Battery on the road at MUSC Health Stadium on Tuesday. After heavy rains over the area created unplayable conditions on the field, the two teams were forced to reschedule the match for Thursday evening just north of Atlanta – behind closed doors.

With Atlanta United opening the match in sloppy fashion, the upset-minded Battery, looking for its first win against the defending MLS champions in three Open Cup tries, eventually took advantage.

In the 20th minute, AJ Paterson jumped on a heavy from Franco Escobar and fed it to Ian Svantesson, who one-touched it past a diving Alec Kann to give the Battery a 1-0 lead. Charleston frazzled its opponent by putting ten men behind the ball any time it defended, clearly having done due diligence knowing that Atlanta has struggled throughout its brief history when facing a bunkering side.

“We started 20 minutes too late,” Atlanta coach Frank de Boer said of his team’s performance against Charleston. “We thought we could just play around and do silly things and they took their opportunity and scored once. Then you have to deal with 11 men behind the ball. It’s a good, organized team and they showed it today.”

.@Chas_Battery gave them a scare, but @ATLUTD pulled clear in extra-time to put the finishing touches on a 3-1 win that sees them through to the Round of 16 & a date with fellow @MLS side @ColumbusCrewSC.#USOC2019 | ? Highlights pic.twitter.com/nLO7YnXlpt

— U.S. Open Cup (@opencup) June 14, 2019

In the second half, Atlanta gradually looked to grow into the match and take advantage of a gradually tiring Charleston defense. It finally broke through in the 79th minute, as a corner kick from Pity Martinez made its way into the box, deflected off the head of Miles Robinson and was poked in by Romario Williams to level the match. For Williams, a player who spent two different loan spells with the Battery, it was his third career US Open Cup goal. All three of those goals came in games that eliminated the Charleston Battery. In 2014, he scored for the Orlando City Under-23s, who upset the Battery in what would be the longest penalty kick shootout of the Modern Era (they won 12-11), and last year, also at Kennesaw State University, he scored for Atlanta United in their 3-0 win over Charleston.

Atlanta may have had a couple of cracks to win it late in regular time, but this one went to an extra 30 minutes – with fatigue starting to set in even more. But in the 110th minute, second half sub Justin Meram connected with Brandon Vazquez in the box, with the youngster drawing the keeper out of the net and touching it home to give Atlanta the late lead.

The Battery, though, looked as if it had tied it twice late in the second half of extra time. A Kann deflection in the box was knocked home, but called offside by the assistant referee. Moments later, Atlanta’s defense broke down and allowed Arthur Bosua a one-on-one opportunity, but his attempt to chip Kann brushed off the crossbar and ended up in the hands of the goalkeeper.

Atlanta would end any notions of a Charleston equalizer for good in stoppage time of the second extra time period. Martinez’s pass found Meram making a goalward run on the left side of the field, and the veteran played a perfect ball to a streaking Vazquez inside the box to set up the game’s third goal and give Atlanta a win over the Battery for the third year in a row.

“I said to the players after the game that it’s a pity we started 20 minutes too late. After that we came into the game with our chances,” de Boer said. “Maybe we were a little reluctant to score a goal, but then we showed character. It was a hard game, and compliments to the Charleston Battery – they pushed us to the limit.”

Atlanta United travels to Columbus on Tuesday, June 18, to take on the Crew at 7:30 p.m. in the Round of 16 of the US Open Cup. Atlanta is looking for its first-ever Round of 16 win, while Columbus defeated the Pittsburgh Riverhounds 1-0 for its first Fourth Round win since 2016.

Filed Under: 2019 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2019 US Open Cup, Atlanta United FC, Charleston Battery

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U.S. Open Cup History

Jim Gregory, president of Charleston Battery supporters group The Regiment (right), presents the Coffee Pot Cup to Sachin Shah after D.C. United's 2-0 win in the 2004 Carolina Challenge Cup. Photo: Mike Buytas

How a US Open Cup classic, locker room vandalism inspired fans to create Coffee Pot Cup

It remains one of the greatest games of the US Open Cup’s Modern Era but what happened after the game gets more attention than the instant classic that took place on the field.

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