Complete U.S. Open Cup Coverage

Miami United FC

2025 US Open Cup Round 1: Inter Miami CF II takes over in 2nd half, rolls past Miami United

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Players from Inter Miami CF II celebrate after scoring a goal against Miami United in the First Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Inter Miami CF II
Players from Inter Miami CF II celebrate after scoring a goal against Miami United in the First Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Inter Miami CF II

Hosts Inter Miami CF II scored four second-half goals to rally past its lower division foe in a 4-2 US Open Cup First Round win over visiting Miami United at Chase Stadium in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

First Half: Miami United Strikes First

Miami United of the UPSL wasted no time in pressing forward against their MLS NEXT Pro hosts with Diego Morales firing a right-footed shot in the third minute, only to be denied by Inter Miami CF II goalkeeper Matias Marin. The home side responded quickly, as Sebastian D’Angelo, Miami United’s goalkeeper, was called into action in the sixth minute, making a crucial save to keep the match scoreless.

After an exciting opening five minutes, the tempo of the game slowed, with young Herons struggling to find attacking clarity in the final third. The breakthrough finally came in the 35th minute, when a careless foul by Bailey Spark of Inter Miami CF II set up a free kick opportunity for Santiago Frean. Frean made no mistake, curling his shot past Marin to give Miami United a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

Second Half: Inter Miami CF II Roars Back

Inter Miami CF II came out strong in the second half, determined to turn the match around. The aggressive start paid off in the 49th minute, when Idoh Zelzter-Zubida unleashed a thunderous right-footed strike, blasting the ball past D’Angelo to level the score at 1-1.

Miami United continued to push forward and thought they had restored their lead, but a controversial offside call denied them a goal. The momentum shifted after this disallowed goal, and hosts in pink took full advantage.

Within minutes, the Herons struck twice in quick succession, with Mateo Saja (65th minute) and Yuval Cohen (70th minute) finding the back of the net, putting the home side up 3-1. The Miami United fans were furious, as the referees continued to make questionable offside calls and overlooked what appeared to be a clear penalty for the visitors.

In the 82nd minute, Cohen secured his brace, slotting home his second goal of the night to extend the lead to 4-1.

Playbeating Miami United 4-2 in the First Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Inter Miami CF II
Playbeating Miami United 4-2 in the First Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Inter Miami CF II

Miami United’s Late Fightback Falls Short

Despite the deficit, Miami United refused to back down. In the closing minutes, Sebastian Luzuriaga managed to slip one past Marin, giving the visitors a consolation goal and making the score 4-2.

Final Thoughts

Though Inter Miami CF II secured the victory, Miami United showed tremendous heart and resilience, battling fiercely across the 90 minutes. Controversial officiating decisions played a role, frustrating the visitors, but Inter Miami’s second-half dominance proved decisive.

With the 4-2 victory, Inter Miami CF II advances to the next round of the U.S. Open Cup, while Miami United exits the tournament, despite putting up a strong fight. The magic of the U.S. Open Cup is alive and well, and this match was a perfect example of its unpredictable drama.

Inter Miami CF II goalkeeper, Matias Marin, said about the win, “It was a very important game for us. We want the glory and to get to the top, so we are very happy to start with this win at home.”

 

2025 US Open Cup Qualifying: Luis Peralta’s late OT goal sends Miami United to 4th straight USOC

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Miami United FC celebrates after a 3-2 extra time win over Red Force FC to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Miami United FC
Miami United FC celebrates after a 3-2 extra time win over Red Force FC to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Miami United FC

On a beautiful night in Hialeah, Fla., two of South Florida’s most historic clubs faced off in a “Win & You’re In” game to punch their ticket to the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Miami United FC, were victorious over their rival Red Force in a fierce game that went to extra time. Fueled by a goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time of the second extra time period from their Argentine star player, Diego “Cachetes” Morales, “El Equipo del Pueblo” is on its way to the 110th edition of US Soccer’s historic tournament.

With the win, Miami United extends it’s record winning streak in the qualifying tournament to 13 games, and have qualified for the US Open Cup proper for the fourth year in a row and the eighth time in club history (2015, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)

The first half saw Red Force struggle to get themselves in the game, while Miami United had a number of opportunities to break the scoreless draw. After a couple of cautions were showed to each team, Morales was able to slot through the opening goal of the match in the 43rd minute with a beautiful touch over the Red Force goalkeeper. Although, Red Force had a tough time cracking through MUFC defense, they were able to escape the half down by only a goal.

Miami United FC celebrates after a 3-2 extra time win over Red Force FC to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Miami United FC
Miami United FC celebrates after a 3-2 extra time win over Red Force FC to qualify for the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Miami United FC

The second half was a different story that saw plenty of chances for both sides, most ending in near misses. MUFC had an opportunity to double the lead, but Santi Frean’s shot hit the crossbar. As the minutes began to dwindle, Red Force’s Santiago Fajardo would have a chance to tie the game, as his shot would go just wide of Sebastian D’Angelo’s goal.

In the 80th minute, Red Force’s captain, David Holguin, tied the game from the penalty spot; with a cheeky shot down the middle. With the game knotted at 1-1, the final minutes of the second half had all of the dramatics you’d expect between two teams fighting for a US Open Cup spot. United’s Serrano had the chance to send his team into the Cup, but couldn’t capitalize on a last minute sitter. As a result, the game was off to extra time.

As the temperatures dipped into the 60s in South Florida, both teams went into the overtime period showing signs of wear and tear after a hard fought 90 minutes. Both teams continued to show their grit, churning out opportunity after opportunity. In the 101st minute, MUFC finally broke through the Red Force defense to take the lead 2-1, with Luis Peralta’s right-footed rocket from outside the box.

Red Force nearly responded seconds later when D’Angelo stopped a breakaway attempt from Fajardo.

With the first half of extra time nearing it’s end, Red Force tied the game in dramatic fashion; ex-MUFC player, Diego Ochoa, struck a volley near post to pull Red Force even, at 2-2.

The second overtime started with an excellent play by the home side that resulted in a goal, which overturned by an offside call from the referees first assistant. It was a decision that caused a lot of controversy among the fans and teams in attendance.

While MUFC continued to push forward looking for a game winning goal, Red Force’s looked tired and was content to let the game go to penalties. In the final minutes of the game, MUFC’s Frea had a free kick denied by the woodwork.

But it was the MUFC’s first half hereo Luis Peralta who doubled his scoring total and not only avoided a penalty kick shootout but he ultimately punched his team’s ticket into the US Open Cup with another scorcher from outside the box, in the fourth minute of stoppage time.

After the goal, MUFC’s president and assistant coach were sent off and the shenanigans began. The game was delayed for a number of minutes, as the officials waited for the gentlemen to leave the pitch. Peralta, was also sent off in the final minutes after receiving a second yellow (the first was given to him after taking off his shirt after his first goal). In the end, Miami United’s depth was too much for Red Force to overcome and the side who called Hialeah home took home the hard fought victory.

After the loss, David Holguin, captain and veteran Red Force player, said “I am proud of the team tonight. We did the unthinkable with the great players we have, but unfortunately we were not on the same level physically, as they were.”

Holguin also talked about how he manages to continue to play at a high level into his 40s.

“I have to thank God,” the Red Force captain said. “It’s tough to continue to play against all of the young talent in South Florida, especially those who train on a daily basis. It’s all thanks to God that I can continue to play this beautiful game.”

“It feels great to qualify to the US Open Cup,” Peralta said about his two-goal performance. “It was a great team effort and overall I think we had a great game. I felt like I was playing in the big leagues, like MLS, or the Premier League, I felt great!”

“It was a debt that we had pending, and we had to win at any cost,” said Miami United manager Claudio Frean about his team earning a spot in the Open Cup. “It was an atypical game where we dominated the entire first half, and we ended up complicating ourselves toward the end of the game. But, overall we are extremely happy with the team, our fans and the city.”

2024 US Open Cup Round 3: Nighte Pickering’s brace sends Memphis 901 FC past Miami United

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Nighte Pickering of Memphis 901 FC scored two goals against Miami United FC in the Third Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Memphis 901 FC
Nighte Pickering of Memphis 901 FC scored two goals against Miami United FC in the Third Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Memphis 901 FC

Cupset-minded Miami United FC of the United States Soccer League fell to Memphis 901 FC of the USL Championship 2-0 on Wednesday night. Memphis was powered by a brace from US youth international (Under-19) forward Nighte Pickering lifted the home side over the tenacious amateurs from south Florida.

The win is the first in all competitions for Memphis since the USL Championship opener against Las Vegas back on March 9.

The victory comes just over a week before the one-year anniversary of the dramatic extra-time game winner Pickering netted against Atlanta United in the 2023 edition of the US Open Cup.

Though his goals tonight may not have been as dramatic as the one scored in Kennesaw, Pickering capitalized on superb service from former US men’s national team member Emerson Hyndman in the 31st minute and winger Dylan Borczak in the 85th.

Memphis controlled the game early, with a golden opportunity off a corner in the 3rd minute when Miami keeper Cristian Blanco was called into service to save a good header and gobble up the rebound.

Akeem Ward’s curled shot from 22 yards in the 15th minute and a good 29th minute Oscar Jimenez run into the box that forced a diving Blanco to smother a dangerous cross seemed to be a sign of things to come. But Miami United FC, who dispatched Chattanooga FC and Club de Lyon to get to Memphis, didn’t look out of place against the second tier side once they settled into the game. Santiago Frean found himself in on goal in the 18th minute, only to have a backtracking Jimenez do enough to force a weak shot Memphis keeper Tyler Deric was able to corral. Miami even looked to go ahead in the 22nd minute, where a mishandled free kick by Deric was put into the net only to be called offside.

Pickering’s 31st minute goal was made possible by a beautiful, lofted pass from Hyndman that found him beating an offside trap, with Miami’s right back, Sebastian Luzuriaga, kept him onside when the rest of the backline stepped up. Both Pickering and wigner Luis Fernando were in on goal with no defenders between them and Blanco. Pickering waited for Blanco to come of his line, sliding the ball neatly inside the left post with his left foot.

Again showing that they did indeed belong on this stage, Miami responded with another free kick in the 35th minute, forcing Deric to make a spectacular double save. Miami continued to look dangerous towards the end of the first half, forcing Deric to make another save in the 41st minute after some questionable Memphis defending in the box.

Memphis made one change at the break, as Fernando gave way to Borczak after the former picked up a minor knock. Early in the second half, the game was fairly even with teams sharing half chances. Miami nearly scored a spectacular goal after Ward lost the ball in the 55th minute and the curling shot nearly missed the top left corner.

The game seemed to devolve somewhat after that chance as Miami picked up four yellow cards in the next eight minutes and Memphis adding one a minute later in the 63rd. After exchanging a few half chances, in the 85th minute, Borczak beat a defender down the right and send in a cross that found Pickering beating his man from four yards out to salt the game away.

Of his young forward, Memphis 901 FC head coach Stephen Glass said, “He was excellent. He was unfortunate not to score three or four.”

The scoreline may have favored Memphis, but Miami United actually put more shots on frame
(5-3) and controlled nearly as much of the ball as Memphis (46-54). Despite his brace, Pickering
said the team knew it would be a difficult game.

“It’s always going to be a tough game. They’re playing with a different type of intensity and fire.”
Glass agreed: “To be honest, if we were not on our game tonight they could have (won). So we had to be at our best; we had to be strong; we had to be good on the ball. Full respect to Miami.”

2024 US Open Cup Round 2: Miami United make USSSA history with upset of Club de Lyon

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Players from Miami United FC (left) and Club de Lyon battle for the ball in the Second Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Kelly Gavin Photography
Players from Miami United FC (left) and Club de Lyon battle for the ball in the Second Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Kelly Gavin Photography

On a breezy evening in Pembroke Pines, Fla., Miami United triumphed over Club de Lyon (NISA) with a dominant 2-0 win in the Second Round of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Although a bit shaky than the home team would have liked, United pulled off the upset in a drama-filled game at UPSL Stadium at Broward College South campus.

With the win, Miami United makes history. United, a member of the United States Soccer League, becomes the first team from the United States Specialty Soccer Association (USSSA) to reach the Third Round of the US Open Cup.

After a nervy back and forth from both teams in the opening 20 minutes star ex Atletico Nacional John Pajoy from Colombia found the back of the net after a good pressure from Alejo Fernandez against defender Andrew Anyafo who could not parry the ball correctly allowed Fernandez to whip in a cross for a 1-0 lead. It was Pajoy’s second goal in as many Open Cup games this year. He scored the lone goal in Miami’s 1-0 upset win over Chattanooga FC (MLS NEXT Pro) in Round 1. By then, Club de Lyon lost momentum and could not break under Miami’s attacking spell after the goal.

United had many chances to extend the lead as fullback Serrano even tried a few shots on goal and Pajoy hit the woodwork just before halftime. Martinez could barely get a whiff of the ball from then as Club de Lyon sat further and further back and could not get past their own half.

During halftime, Miami head coach Claudio Frean pleaded with his team to not become complacent and close the game out in the second half.

“We’re alright guys. Relax, relax,” Frean shouted. “We cannot get crazy here.”

These words of encouragement were enough for Miami to attack the same way they did after they scored the first goal. Finally, after a string of chances, Serrano, after some passing exchanges with Insua the number 10 set him up down the flank to make a run that allowed him to make another low cross where Fernandez had an easy tap-in with no defender seemingly marking him.

From then on, it was smooth sailing until minute 71 where the match began to get heated.

Club de Lyon’s Malik Thom received a long pass in behind the defense and found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper. United defender Frank Fraggetti attempted to track him down and mis-timed a tackle and knocked Thom down in the box and the referee called for a penalty kick. Fraggetti received a second yellow card for thet foul and was sent off.

The bench was infuriated with the call and many were protesting from the staff with the referee threatening to expel multiple staff members from Miami United’s side.

Club de Lyon had a chance to cut the lead in half from the penalty spot, and spending the remaining 20 minutes with a man advantage. Juan Martinez stepped up to take the penalty, but he not only had his attempt saved, but when the rebound came back to him, Miami goalkeeper Cristian Blanco saved that one too as the crowd and the team cheered as if they had won a final.

“Vamos Carajo!” was heard shouted from the bench.

After that missed opportunity, despite being a man up, Club de Lyon’s players seemed deflated and had no way to break Miami’s concentrated defense. Even with fresh legs and substitutions, it proved to be too late after Blanco’s heroics shut them down from a comeback.

Once full time was called, Miami United players cheered Ole Ole Ole as fans jumped into the stadium to join in on the fun. The home advantage was respected and it was full of emotions from start to finish but not without its complications that will definitely have Claudio Frean looking for improvements going into the Third Round.

“It was a tough match, they are a great rival,” admitted Pajoy after the match. “I think the team was able to handle that stress and thank God the goals came and we were able to get the win, step by step.”

About 200 spectators attended to watch as Miami’s new project of building a competitive team for the US Open Cup continues to make waves. United, who is competing in its sixth tournament, will try to match it’s best run in 2018 where the reached the Fourth Round.

Miami United needed to keep the momentum after their win over Chattanooga and tonight over Club De Lyon, as an early elimination would raise questions surrounding Claudio Frean and his team. And this has proven to be a good start on all accounts.

Club De Lyon by contrast had more experience on their roster in this tournament so many felt the pros from NISA were the favorites. Juan Martinez the team’s 38-year-old captain, caused problems for Miami’s defenders through various parts in the game, but the Argentinian international just could not get going during the game and will be exiting the tournament early.

2024 US Open Cup Round 1: Miami United FC edge Chattanooga FC to earn first pro upset

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Miami United FC celebrates after upsetting Chattanooga FC in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Miami United FC
Miami United FC celebrates after upsetting Chattanooga FC in the First Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Miami United FC

For the first time in club history, Miami United FC have claimed their first upset of a professional team. The amateur side from the United States Soccer League traveled north to Tennessee to edge Chattanooga FC of MLS NEXT Pro 1-0 in the opening round of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup on Tuesday night.

With cold temperatures settling over the Tennessee Valley, there could be only one thing that would make for a grueling evening for the so-called “Chattahooligan” faithful: a stonewall defense by Miami.

The wing backs and defenders of Miami forced opportunities by Chattanooga to be few and far between, with most chances coming within the final minutes as desperation settled in. The defense — two defenders with an assisting midfield defender and two wingbacks — was all a part of Miami head coach Claudio Frean’s plan.

“We saw a lot of games of Chattanooga FC where they liked to go through their wings, so we focused all week on closing out the backdoor,” Frean said. “We just closed the circuit. They could not come forward.”

Frean’s plan frustrated the likes of Chattanooga FC’s Milo Garvanian, whose runs would be countered by two defenders clamping down or offside traps by the aggressive defense.

As the Chattanooga offense struggled to poke through the defense, Miami seized the early opportunities to generate an early lead. Following a couple of shots, Miami was awarded a free kick in the 12th minute.

Miami’s Jhon Pajoy stepped up for the free kick and, from what seemed like a quarter-mile out, rocketed off a shot with his left foot. The ball, springing above the ball and descending like a knuckleball, framed itself in the upper-left corner of the net.

Great goalkeeping by Chattanooga’s Jonathan Burke was met with a jaw-dropping strike and Pajoy winning the battle for his first career US Open Cup goal.

Players from Chattanooga FC (left) and Miami United FC battle for the ball in a First Round match in the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Chattanooga FC
Players from Chattanooga FC (left) and Miami United FC battle for the ball in a First Round match in the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Chattanooga FC

Miami played like they had a cushion for the rest of the match by relying on their steadfast defense.

The defense could be best described as a python — constricting upon any threat. With no ability to advance the ball, Chattanooga was forced to play out the back of their two defenders. Thus, beginning the long, dreadful spiral of an offense — like watching a trainwreck unfold.

“When they passed to their wingers, we pressured them into passing to their center (defenders),” Frean said. “We had to be smart. Instead of playing their game, we went out and won it.”

With the win, Miami advances to the Second Round for the first time since 2022.

2024 US Open Cup Qualifying Final Round: Miami United, “El Equipo Del Pueblo”, back in USOC after win

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Photo: Miami United FC

In the stands in Hialeah, Florida on Sunday, a banner read “EL EQUIPO DEL PUEBLO” (The People’s Team).

No doubt the host Miami United FC faithful enjoyed the performance from their team as fans, family, and friends will now get to watch Miami play in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Proper — and they’ll likely be hoping for another inspired performance from their main man, Robertino Insua. He netted a brace for the home side in a 3-1 win over visiting City Soccer FC.

It was Miami’s 10th straight qualifying win dating back to 2020. United qualified in 2020 (3 wins) but the US Open Cup was ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After not entering in 2022 (the club’s NPSL side qualified instead), Miami returned for the 2023 competition and won four games to qualify. Adding the three wins from this year, that gives them 10 straight wins, which is the longest winning streak of the competition’s short history, which began in 2015. Combined with Miami United’s NPSL club, the 2024 US Open Cup will mark the sixth time the club will participate in the United States’ national championship (7th time that they qualified, if you include 2020). It is also the team’s fourth straight qualification to the tournament.

“This is certainly will be the most important Open Cup run given how football has grown, especially in South Florida,” said Miami United CEO Roberto Sacca. “We couldn’t miss the 2024 edition of the US Open Cup as we will try to do our best as the underdog and our dream is to get to play against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami CF.”

The match between the two United States Soccer League (USSL) rivals started out with Miami controlling much of the possession. Although that didn’t lead to many chances right off the bat, a shot from just past the center circle highlighted the first 10 minutes. Miami United did not maintain its stranglehold on possession for the rest of the first half but they would be the ones to break the deadlock.

In the 26th minute, a mistake at the back led to City Soccer conceding first. A failed clearance led to a deflection which put United’s Insua in on goal. He tucked it past the opposing goalkeeper, close to the near post.

In the 39th minute, Miami United had another good chance to score when a pass found an open man at the edge of the City box. The visitors’ goalkeeper managed to get a strong hand on it and pushed that shot wide. A third good attempt was saved by a defender helping his keeper out when United got a free shot in the 42nd. The tide of the first half was certainly flowing one way.

The second half started with controversy as City Soccer’s Juan Basco received his marching orders following an accumulation of yellow cards. Despite going down a man, City Soccer showed they would not go quietly. Beside two good chances off of corner kicks in the 68th and 72nd minutes, they held firm. Unfortunately, those would prove to be the most dangerous opportunities. Miami United found another breakthrough in the 73rd minute through Josduard Serrano following the set piece to give themselves a 2-0 cushion.

Miami took another step toward putting the game to bed in the 77th minute off yet another set piece. This time, directly from a free kick, Insua stepped up to put an exclamation point on the game. City Soccer’s shot stopper and his wall stood no chance in the face of Insua’s precision.

“Robertino is our Lionel Messi, our “DIEZ”, the undisputed leader of a fantastic group,” said Sacca. “Robertino comes from a family with a football DNA, his brother also plays in the Argentine Serie A and his dad Ruben Dario Insua is the current coach of San Lorenzo.”

According to Sacca, Insua grew up in the San Lorenzo de Almagro and subsequently made his debut in professional football in Ecuador with Liga de Portoviejo and Guayaquil City before arriving in the States with Miami United where he scored 67 goals (16 in the US Open Cup play and 51 goals since Nov. of 2021.). During this competition Insua has scored nine goals in three matches.

City showed a “Never Say Die” attitude throughout the whole game. In the 90th minute it was Miami United’s turn to attempt a clearance which would land in their own net as the ball from a Miami defender smacked into a City Soccer player’s chest and went into the net. The lone goal would be all the visitors had to show for their efforts, however.

“I feel that a great group is being created thanks to the work of the new coach Mr. Claudio Frean,” said Sacca. “Our goal is to try to repeat our magic run from the 2018 US Open Cup where we reached the 4th round and faced Orlando City SC.”

FULL MATCH

2023 US Open Cup Round 1: GKs do double duty in PK shootout as Jacksonville Armada beats Miami United

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Miami United and Jacksonville Armada get ready to play a match in the First Round of the 2023 US Open Cup at Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. | Photo: Stuart Webber
Miami United and Jacksonville Armada get ready to play a match in the First Round of the 2023 US Open Cup at Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. | Photo: Stuart Webber

It took 10 rounds of penalty kicks, but eventually Jacksonville Armada FC U-23s put away Miami United FC in the First Round of the 2023 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Jacksonville won the shootout 9-8 after a 1-1 draw on Thursday night.

Mikah Thomas scored the Armada’s lone goal in the 42nd minute of play after it looked like neither team would find a breakthrough before the interval. A quick bit of build-up play by the hosts on the counter eventually saw Thomas collect a square ball in the middle of the box from Charles Elondou. Though Thomas’s initial effort was parried by the MUFC keeper, the Armada’s No. 3 was able to put the rebound away.

Halftime proved to be what Miami needed to regroup, as the visitors quickly leveled the score in the 48th minute thanks to Bautista Pablo Dominguez. Shamar Shelton whipped in a corner kick that found Dominguez’s head off a short run. Jacksonville had an opportunity to regain the advantage almost immediately from the restart, but the effort was found wanting.

A second yellow card to Thomas in the 83rd minute led the Armada to play down a man in extra time. However, a dogged defensive effort held MUFC at bay through the additional 30 minutes of play to keep the score even at 1-1.

With neither side claiming a pivotal second goal through extra time, the match was determined at the spot. Both teams converted their first seven chances. Miami had an opportunity to claim advancement in the eighth round of kicks after Jacksonville failed to convert, but Miami squandered the chance.

A keeper showdown ended up deciding the match, as the Armada’s Nicklaus Rulle converted against Miami’s Occenat Peterson in the 10th round of kicks before turning around and saving Peterson’s subsequent attempt.

Jacksonville moves to 2-3-1 all-time in Open Cup play, and have advanced to the Second Round for the first time since 2017. They will move on to face USL Championship side Miami FC at the FIU Soccer Stadium on Tuesday, April 4 at 7 p.m. Eastern.

2023 US Open Cup Qualifying: Miami United edge Naples City to earn fifth trip to USOC

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Miami United FC celebrate after beating Naples City 2-1 in the 2023 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Miami United FC
Miami United FC celebrate after beating Naples City 2-1 in the 2023 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Miami United FC

The last two South Florida teams squared off in a “Win & You’re In” match with a berth in the 2023 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup on the line. In the end, the experienced Miami United FC returned to the tournament for the second year in a row with a 2-1 win over Naples City FC.

Miami United and Naples City traded opportunities and shots on target in the match’s opening minutes. Both teams found their rhythm early as they understood the importance of winning this fourth-round match. The performances of the forwards and goalkeepers dictated the pace and outcome of the match.

Miami opened the scoring in the 29th minute as they recovered a loose ball in midfield and unlocked the Naples City defense in two quick passes. Shelton Shamar brought the ball forward on the right and appeared to have space to play through a teammate but instead cut back and opened up space for a left-footed shot from the very corner of the 18-yard box. His shot was on target and proved troublesome for the Naples City goalkeeper Brayan Arce Justiniano as it curled away from him. The keeper got his hands to the ball only to deflect it into his own net. It was a stunning way to take the lead.

It wouldn’t last very long, though. Naples City proved how they had come this far as they responded immediately. Naples City appeared to be clearing its lines as the defense launched the ball high in the air toward forward Raidel Ramos with a Miami Defender clearly tugging on his shirt and goalkeeper Alan coming to clear the ball; Raidel kept his balance and lifted the ball over Alan and into an empty net. He fell to his knees as he celebrated with his teammates, taking in the moment for himself and his club.

More opportunities were traded back and forth as both teams tried to assert their dominance in the game. Miami United had an excellent opportunity just before halftime. A free kick lined up from the right side of the pitch found the head of an oncoming attacker, but their shot was well over the bar.

That attempt was a precursor of what was to come, as Miami would have another free kick on the left side of the field near the touchline early in the second half. Robert Insua put the ball into the box. His shot could easily have been a miss hit as he looked for a teammate’s head, but he managed to fool the Naples City goalkeeper Brayan Arce Justiniano. He could not fully get his body in front of the ball as his weight was shifted in the opposite direction since he expected a cross. Much like the first goal, despite getting his hands to the ball, it trickled into the net. There was some speculation on whether or not it had actually crossed the line for a moment, but it became clear to the center referee that Insua’s shot was not impeded and had crossed the line. Miami had restored their lead.

Miami pushed for a third goal for the rest of the second half. The crossbar came to Naples City’s defense twice. The second time was the more dramatic, as in the 90th minute. The ball should have been cleared by Naples City’s defense, but instead, it fell to an oncoming Miami United player. His shot seemed to have left Brayan Arce Justiniano flat-footed but didn’t dip down far enough to beat the woodwork. The ball bounced back into play; unfortunately, Miami could not capitalize.

They would hold on from there, though. Miami United secured their fifth appearance in the US Open Cup.

2022 US Open Cup Round 2: Early PK sparks Miami FC past rival Miami United

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Connor Sparrow Miami FC Miami United 2022 US Open Cup
Miami FC goalkeeper Connor Sparrow prepares for a shot from a Miami United FC player in their Second Round match in the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Miami FC

While it’s not the usual home for the hosts, the FIU Soccer Stadium provided an intimate setting for the Second Round encounter between Miami FC & Miami United. Both sides have had their fair share of history when they were in the NPSL together for a couple of seasons and that rivalry once again ignited after laying dormant for the last few years. Miami FC, now a USL Championship side, started their Open Cup campaign by beating their rivals 3-0 on Wednesday night.

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The first half kicked off and Miami United came off the blocks running. They attempted to catch Miami FC sleeping by trying to get an early goal with Andrea Pastore creating dangerous opportunities on the left wing. However, misfortune struck as Miami FC was awarded a penalty in the ninth minute. Lamar Walker was fouled and quickly dropped inside the box to give penalty taker Kyle Murphy the opportunity to open up the scoring. The chance was saved by Bryant Gammiero; only to be called back for a retake after the assistant referee caught him jumping off his line early. It was the correct decision and Murphy was able to slot in his second attempt, giving FC an early lead.

It was evident to spectators there and viewers at home the disparity between a team that’s in-season and a team that’s not. Miami United, not having started their NPSL season, seemed disconnected; giving away possession in the middle of the field and not creating many threatening attacking opportunities. Miami FC, already four games into the USL Championship, gained composure after the penalty and took control of the game. They got their second goal after a bad clearance from United landed perfectly for Adonijah Reid who scored from just outside of the 18. Miami FC went into halftime up 2-0.

The second half was fully dominated by Miami FC who kept creating chances in the final third. Only one of those opportunities would end up in the back of the net as Lamar Walker ran past his defender and teed it up for fellow countryman Romeo Parkes who assured Miami FC’s advancement into the Third Round.

This is the first time Miami FC made it this far in the Open Cup since their Cinderella run in the 2017 edition, where they made the Quarterfinals.

As Miami FC bid adieu to their old foe, the long awaited meeting with Inter Miami CF may become reality depending on this Friday’s draw. While there have been pre-season friendlies between the both sides in the past, their first competitive meeting is something fans of both sides have been waiting for since 2020. Both teams have been struggling in their respective leagues and it could be a toss up on who will come out on top if both are drawn together.

The matter of who hosts is an interesting topic given that Inter Miami plays at DRV PNK Stadium, where the old Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale used to be. If Miami FC were to host, it would give Inter Miami fans the opportunity to finally see their team play in Miami-Dade County. It would be a huge draw for Miami FC, who could use the extra ticket revenue but would risk having their stadium overrun by the visiting supporters. The soccer community in South Florida will have their eyes on the draw this Friday at Noon.

2022 US Open Cup Round 1: Late frenzy sees Miami United edge City Soccer FC

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

Perfect weather conditions greeted the teams and spectators at Ted Hendricks Stadium in Hialeah, Fla., for this first-round match between host Miami United FC and the new boys on the block, City Soccer FC from the National Soccer League.

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While the first 79 minutes weren’t short of action, they were short of goals. Not so in the final 11 minutes, as the floodgates opened and the teams combined for four goals in quick succession. When the final whistle blew, Miami United FC had ended City Soccer FC’s Lamar Hunt US Open debut with a 3-1 victory.

Miami United looked the most dangerous early on. They fashioned two good opportunities, the first on Robertino Insua’s free kick in the 6th minute and the second on Ignacio Cubeddu’s run into the box in the 31st, but both chances were stopped by City Soccer FC’s defense. Both goalkeepers had their moments to shine, too, with Robinson Gabriel Barrios of City Soccer FC and Miami United’s Bryant Gammiero making key saves to keep the match 0-0 into halftime.

In the second half, with no goals on the scoreboard and time winding down, extra time was looking like a very real possibility.

But Miami United FC finally drew first blood in the 79th minute, as the NPSL side took the lead on a beautiful free kick by Insua. Just two minutes later, Oscar Escobar Reyes responded for City Soccer FC from inside the box and it was level again at 1-1.

That tie lasted just a minute, as Lucas Espindola of Miami United broke the deadlock in somewhat controversial fashion. There were appeals of a handball from City Soccer FC and upon watching video replay, Insua indeed made contact with the ball with his arm before the goal. However, with no video assistant review in the US Open Cup, the goal stood.

The final blow was dealt in stoppage time when Miami United was awarded a penalty, which Espindola dispatched for his second goal of the night to secure his team’s advancement to the second round — they’ll face USL Championship side Miami FC on April 6 at Florida International University Stadium in Miami.

Espindola was our man of the match after his two-goal performance. “Happy to have been the difference-maker tonight,” he said with a sly grin. “The game was very close, and sometimes luck has to be on your side in these tournaments.”

While Miami FC has started their league season — they will have played four USL Championship matches by the time of the second-round US Open Cup game — Miami United’s NPSL South Region Sunshine Conference schedule hasn’t even been announced yet.

“It was noticeable that we aren’t in season form yet,” Espindola said. “We have two weeks to work on ourselves and be prepared for the next round.”

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