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MLS

2022 US Open Cup Round 4: Previews, ESPN+ links for all 16 games

May 10, 2022 by Chuck Nolan Jr.

Orlando City SC players celebrate after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Orlando City SC
Orlando City SC players celebrate after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Orlando City SC
Orlando City SC players celebrate after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Orlando City SC

The Fourth Round of the 2022 U.S. Open Cup kicks off this week with 16 games, six on Tuesday and the remaining 10 on Wednesday.

The final two amateur clubs (FC Motown, North Carolina Fusion U-23s) were eliminated in the Third Round, meaning there are no more clubs alive that entered in the First Round. FC Motown became the first club to claim prize money, as they were awarded $25,000 as the Open Division team that advanced the furthest (winning the tiebreaker over North Carolina Fusion).

#USOC2022 Essentials

2022 US Open Cup Results/Schedule
2022 US Open Cup Statistical Leaders
2022 US Open Cup Qualifying Results

Things you should know about the Fourth Round
USOC rule changes since 2019 tournament

TheCup.us Player of the Round
Round 1: Tomas Bosuel (San Fernando Valley FC)
Round 2: Villyan Bijev (Central Valley Fuego)
Round 3: Maxi Rodriguez (Detroit City FC)

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There are six teams remaining from the third tier: Richmond Kickers, Northern Colorado Hailstorm, South Georgia Tormenta and Union Omaha from USL League One, California United Strikers FC from NISA, and Rochester New York FC from MLS Next Pro. By comparison, only one team below Division 2 remained alive at the same point in the 2019 tournament (and none of them were third tier).

In an odd twist of the draw, only four games feature teams from different leagues: South Georgia Tormenta (USL League One) at Inter Miami CF (MLS), Charlotte FC (MLS) at Richmond Kickers (USL League One), Rochester New York FC (MLS Next Pro) at New York City FC (MLS), and San Antonio FC (USL Championship) at Houston Dynamo (MLS). This means at least three non-MLS clubs are guaranteed to advance to the Round of 16.

All games this round, and the rest of the tournament, will be broadcasted on the ESPN+ subscription service. Additionally, as first announced by USL Director of Content Nicholas Murray, there will be an Open Cup “whip-around” show on ESPN+ for Wednesday’s 10-game slate. This will likely a program in a similar vein to Sky Sport’s “Match of the Day” or, for us hot-blooded Americans, something like the NFL Redzone.

As always, TheCup.us will have reporters at every game and will be providing in-game updates on Twitter (@USOpenCup) and as we have done for more than a decade, the hashtag we recommend is #USOC2022.

Below you will find a brief preview of all 16 of this week’s games with links to each broadcast:

May 10, 2022

Philadelphia Union (MLS) at Orlando City SC (MLS) 
Exploria Stadium; Orlando, FL 
Kickoff: 7 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

Philadelphia have been one of the more consistently successful MLS teams in the last ten years of the Open Cup. Union has reached the Open Cup Final on three occasions in 2014, 2015 and most recently in 2018. Only once in their previous eight appearances have they been eliminated in their opening game, a 2-1 extra time loss to D.C. United in 2019. Philadelphia faced Orlando City in the 2018 Quarterfinals at home, and won 1-0 on Alejandro Bedoya’s 4th minute goal.

Orlando City started in 2009 in USL-1 as the Austin Aztex, where they reached the Third Round in 2009 & 2010. Success followed them in their move to Orlando, with the peak being a 2013 run to the Quarterfinals, knocking off two MLS clubs (Colorado & Sporting KC) along the way. In 2015 the club moved up to MLS, adding to their resume a pair of Quarterfinal runs (2015 & 2018), and a Semifinal spot in 2019 where they fell to Atlanta United 2-0.

Philadelphia has just one Open Cup road win out of eight games, and that was a 2-1 extra time victory over D.C. United in the Fourth Round in 2012. Eighteen of Philly’s 27 Open Cup games have been against MLS opposition. They hold an 8-5-5 record against their league mates, going 2-3 in penalty shootouts.

Orlando opened their 2022 US Open Cup with a 2-1 win at home over the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the USL Championship in the Third Round. Alexandre Pato and Junior Urso scored second half goals. The Union received a bye into the Fourth Round based on their league results from last season.

Alejandro Bedoya of the Philadelphia Union celebrates his goal against Orlando City in the 2018 US Open Cup Quarterfinals. Photo: Greg Carroccio, Philadelphia Union
Alejandro Bedoya of the Philadelphia Union celebrates his goal against Orlando City in the 2018 US Open Cup Quarterfinals. Photo: Greg Carroccio, Philadelphia Union

Philadelphia Union (MLS)
9th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 16-5-6 (3-3 PKs)
Away: 1-3-4 (2-2 PKs)
vs. MLS: 8-5-5 (2-3 PKs)
Best finish: Final (2014, 2015, 2018)

Current Season
5-1-4 19 Pts., 15 GF 8 GA, 1st in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Daniel Gazdag, 4
Assists Leader: Kai Wagner, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Andre Blake, 9 games, 0.67 GAA / 4 clean sheets

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 1-1 draw vs. CF Montreal
5/1 – MLS – 1-1 draw at Nashville SC
5/7 – MLS – 2-2 draw at Los Angeles FC

Orlando City SC (MLS)
12th US Open Cup appearance | 6th in MLS
Overall: 18-11-3 (3-0 PKs) | 6-5-3 (3-0 PKs) in MLS
Home: 12-4-1 (1-0 PKs) | 3-3-1 (1-0 PKs) in MLS
vs. MLS: 4-9-2 (2-0 PKs) | 2-3-0 (2-0 PKs) in MLS
Best finish: Semifinals (2019)

Current Season
5-4-2 17 Pts., 13 GF 15 GA, 4th in MLS Eastern Conference

Goal Scoring Leader: Five players tied with 2
Assists Leader: Mauricio Pereyra, 5
Goalkeeping Leader: Pedro Gallese, 10 games, 1.40 GAA / 5 clean sheets

Last Three Games
4/24 – MLS – 0-3 loss vs. New York Red Bulls
4/30 – MLS – 2-1 win vs. Charlotte FC
5/7 – MLS – 1-4 loss at CF Montreal

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New York Red Bulls (MLS) at D.C. United (MLS)
Audi Field; Washington, D.C. 
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

There was once a time when D.C. United could almost be penciled for a spot in the Semifinals at the start of any Open Cup they entered, but now that time has passed. Nine out of their first 14 Cup appearances from 1996-2013 saw the club finish as a semifinalist of better. Since 2014, United have fallen on hard times in Cup play, failing to advance past their second game in their last six appearances. 

The New York Red Bulls have a bit of a split personality in their Open Cup history. As the MetroStars, the club reached the semifinals four times, making a championship game appearance in 2003 (1-0 loss to Chicago Fire). When the team changed its name to Red Bulls, it went nine years without advancing past a second game, going 3-7-0 in that span. A blip of home came in 2015 with a Quarterfinal appearance, then a trip to the Final in 2017. In the two tournaments after that disappointment returned with early exits each time at the hands of MLS clubs.

Both teams have been rather mediocre against MLS clubs in the Open Cup, with the Red Bulls holding a 8-12-3 (2-1 PKs) record, and D.C. United slightly better at 11-10-3 (0-3 PKs). Going back to 2016, eight of the Red Bulls last eleven Open Cup games have been against MLS clubs, resulting in a 3-4-2 record (1-1 PKs). Meanwhile, D.C. has faced four MLS clubs since 2016 for a 1-2-1 record.

The teams have met twice in past Open Cup play. In 2003, the Red Bulls (as the MetroStars) defeated D.C. 3-2 in the Semifinals, Amado Guevara scoring twice for the Metros. In 2006, D.C. defeated the Red Bulls 3-2 in the Quarterfinals with Jamil Walker scoring the final two goals for the winners.

The Red Bulls reached the Fourth Round with a 2-1 win over Hartford Athletic of the USL Championship. Early goals from Lewis Morgan and Aaron Long was all NYRB needed while out-shooting Hartford 30-4. D.C. United traveled to Rochester in the Third Round and vanquished NISA’s Flower City Union 3-0 through two goals from Ola Kamara and another from Nigel Robertha. Flower City held on to a scoreless draw until the 73rd minute before the D.C. floodgates opened. In somewhat of a surprise move, D.C. fired manager Hernan Losada the next day, leaving Chad Ashton as the interim manager.

The New York Red Bulls celebrate the game-winning goal against FC Cincinnati in the 101st minute in the 2017 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: Ryan Meyer | New York Red Bulls
The New York Red Bulls celebrate the game-winning goal against FC Cincinnati in the 101st minute in the 2017 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: Ryan Meyer | New York Red Bulls

New York Red Bulls (MLS)
22nd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 23-20-3 (2-1 PKs)
Away: 12-13-1 (0-1 PKs)
vs. MLS: 8-12-3 (2-1 PKs)
Best finish: Final (2003, 2017)

Current Season
5-3-2 18 Pts., 16 GF 8 GA, 2nd in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Lewis Morgan, 4
Assists Leader: Frankie Amaya, Omir Fernandez, Patryk Klimala, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Carlos Coronel, 10 games, 0.80 GAA / 3 clean sheets

Last Three Games
4/24 – MLS – 3-0 win at Orlando City SC
4/30 – MLS – 2-1 win at Chicago Fire
5/7 – MLS – 1-1 draw vs. Portland Timbers

D.C. United (MLS)
22nd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 34-14-7
Home: 26-6-4 (1-3 PKs)
vs. MLS: 11-10-3 (0-3 PKs)
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champions (1996, 2008, 2013)

Current Season
4-5-0 12 Pts., 12 GF 13 GA, 10th in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Taxiarchis Fountas, Ola KAmara, 4
Assists Leader: Julian Gressel, 4
Goalkeeping Leader: Bill Hamid, 7 games, 1.22 GAA / 2 clean sheets

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 3-2 win vs. New England Revolution
4/30 – MLS – 0-3 loss at Columbus Crew
5/7 – MLS – 2-0 win vs. Houston Dynamo

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Louisville City FC (USL-C) at Detroit City FC (USL-C) 
Keyworth Stadium; Hamtramck, MI 
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

Detroit City’s previous four US Open Cup appearances came as an amateur NPSL club, and during their time as a pro club with NISA, the Open Cup had been canceled. Detroit are 2-1-1 against professional clubs, but that record is 2-0 since they have become a pro club themselves.

Louisville City have been one of the more successful USL Championship teams in recent Open Cup play. Louisville holds a 10-5-2 all-time record in the Cup, although they are just 3-5 in Open Cup games on the road. Their last win away from home came in the 2017 Second Round with a 9-0 win over Open Division Local side Tartan Devils Oak Avalon.

Despite both teams’ relatively short Open Cup histories, Detroit City and Louisville City have met before in the tournament. As a NPSL club, Detroit traveled to Louisville for the Second Round in 2016 and played to a 1-1 extra time draw, with Louisville surviving the penalty shootout 3-1.

In the Third Round, Detroit fell behind the Columbus Crew 1-0 early in the first half, then got goals in the 64th and 88th minutes from Maxi Rodriguez to send the Keyworth Stadium crowd into a frenzy. The performance earned Rodriguez the “Player of the Round” from TheCup.us for Round 3.

Louisville had an even longer wait for victory in their Third Round game. After playing a scoreless 120 minutes with St. Louis CITY 2 of MLS Next Pro, Louisville came out on top in the penalty shootout 9-8, just one round short of each team’s goalkeepers taking a turn at a spot kick.

Players from Louisville City and Detroit City FC battle for the ball in the Third Round of the 2016 US Open Cup. Photo: Alena Shuckmann | Louisville City
Players from Louisville City and Detroit City FC battle for the ball in the Third Round of the 2016 US Open Cup. Photo: Alena Shuckmann | Louisville City

Louisville City FC (USL Championship)
6th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 10-5-2 (2-0 PKs)
Away: 3-5-0
vs. Division 2: 4-2-0
Best finish: Quarterfinals (2018)

Current Season
7-0-3 24 Pts., 20 GF 4 GA, 1st in USL Championship Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Wilson Harris, 5
Assists Leader: Wilson Harris, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Kyle Morton, 10 games, 0.40 GAA / 7 clean sheets

Last Three Games
4/23 – USLC – 1-1 draw at Charleston Battery
4/30 – USLC – 2-0 win vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds
5/4 – USLC – 4-0 win at Atlanta United 2

Detroit City FC (USL Championship)
5th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 2-2-4 (2-2 PKs)
Home: 2-0-2 (1-1 PKs)
vs. Division 2: 0-1-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2022)

Current Season
5-2-2 17 Pts., 13 GF 7 GA, 3rd in USL Championship Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Antoine Hoppenot, 3
Assists Leader: Maxi Rodriguez, Rhys Williams, 2
Goalkeeping Leader: Nathan Steinwascher, 9 games, 0.78 GAA / 4 clean sheets

Last Three Games
4/23 – USLC – 2-1 win at Hartford Athletic
4/30 – USLC – 2-0 win vs. NY Red Bulls II
5/7 – USLC – 1-3 loss at FC Tulsa
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South Georgia Tormenta FC (USL-1) at Inter Miami CF (MLS) 
DRV PNK Stadium; Fort Lauderdale, FL 
Kickoff: 8 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

Prior to 2022, South Georgia’s lone Open Cup game was a 1-0 loss to league mates Greenville Triumph in the 2019 Second Round.

South Georgia wound up playing their Second Round game at the Charleston Battery at 11 a.m. on April 7 after the game was pushed back a day due to inclement weather. In addition there were zero fans in attendance due to stadium damage caused by a previous storm. The Tormenta took advantage of the reduced home field advantage to pull off a 1-0 surprise on the strength of Athur Bosua’s 61st minute goal

In the Third Round, the Tormenta defeated Birmingham Legion 2-0 despite being outshot 20-7. First half goals from Curtis Thorn and Jake Dengler held up for South Georgia

Inter Miami’s Open Cup debut ended with a 1-0 win in the “Miami Classico” over Miami FC of the USL Championship. Leonardo Campana scored the lone goal in the 83rd minute, and Inter will be without defender Damion Lowe, who was sent off after a second yellow in second half stoppage time.

South Georgia Tormenta 2022 US Open Cup
Players from South Georgia Tormenta celebrate during the club’s match against Birmingham Legion FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: South Georgia Tormenta FC

South Georgia Tormenta FC (USL League One)
2nd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 2-1-0
Away: 2-1-0
vs. MLS: 0-0-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2022)

Current Season
2-1-2, 8 Pts. 4 GF 1 GA, 2nd in USL League One
Goal Scoring Leader: Four players tied with 1
Assists Leader: Four players tied with 1
Goalkeeping Leader: Pablo Jara, 4 games, 0.25 GAA / 3 clean sheets

Last Three Games
4/23 – USL1 – 2-0 win at Greenville Triumph
4/30 – USL1 – 2-0 win at FC Tucson
5/7 – USL1 – 0-0 draw vs. Charlotte Independence

Inter Miami CF (MLS)

1st US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 1-0-0
Home: 0-0-0
vs. Division 3: 0-0-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2022)

Current Season
3-6-1 10 Pts., 9 GF 19 GA, 13th in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Leonardo Campana, 5
Assists Leaders: Leonardo Campana, Ariel Lassiter, DeAndre Yedlin, 2
Goalkeeping Leader: Nick Marsman, 5 games, 1.60 GAA/ 1 clean sheet

Last Three Games
4/24 – MLS – 2-1 win vs. Atlanta United
4/30 – MLS – 0-2 loss at New England Revolution
5/7 – MLS – 0-1 loss at Charlotte FC

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FC Dallas (MLS) at Sporting Kansas City (MLS) 
Children’s Mercy Park; Kansas City, KS 
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

The two-time Open Cup champs FC Dallas have quietly built up an impressive resume over their previous 22 appearances. Their 16 Quarterfinal appearances are only second all-time to the 17 held by St. Louis powerhouse Kutis SC. 

In their first 13 Open Cup appearances Kansas City struggled to find success. Their first four attempts from 1996-2000 ended with eliminations after their opening game. Just twice was the club able to make deep runs, a semifinal appearance in 2002, and winning the Open Cup in 2004 with a 1-0 golden goal win over the Chicago Fire. Since changing their name to Sporting Kansas City, Open Cup success became more commonplace. In 2012, 2015 and 2017 Sporting KC won it all, bringing their Open Cup championship total to four.

FC Dallas and Sporting KC have met four times in Open Cup play over the years, all won by Kansas City, with a 16-4 advantage in goals. Sporting’s last 10 Open Cup games have been against MLS clubs, and 14 of their last 16 dating back to 2015.

FC Dallas vs. Sporting Kansas City, Open Cup

2018 (SKC 3-2), 2017 (SKC 3-0), 2015 (SKC 6–2), 2004 (SKC 4-0)

FC Dallas got past FC Tulsa 2-1 in the Third Round behind goals from Franco Jara (PK) and Jader Obrian. It is the seventh consecutive tournament FC Dallas has advanced past their opening game.

SKC and FC Dallas played to a 2-2 draw in MLS play on April 30. Jonathan Russell opened the scoring for KC with a penalty kick in the 22nd minute, then Alan Velasco and Jesus Ferreira gava Dallas a 2-1 halftime lead with late first half goals. Daniel Salloi pulled Kansas City level in the 77th minute.

Daniel Salloi of Sporting Kansas City celebrates one of his two goals against FC Dallas in the Fifth Round of the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Sporting KC
Daniel Salloi of Sporting Kansas City celebrates one of his two goals against FC Dallas in the Fifth Round of the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Sporting KC

FC Dallas (MLS)

23rd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 36-19-6 (5-1 PKs)

Away: 14-12-2 (2-0 PKs)
vs. MLS: 13-13-3 (2-1 PKs)
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champions (1997, 2016)

Current Season
5-1-4 19 Pts., 16 GF 7 GA, 4th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Jesus Ferreira, 7
Assists Leader: Brandon Servania, Alan Velasco, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Maarten Paes, 10 games, 0.70 GAA / 4 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 2-1 win vs. Houston Dynamo
4/30 – MLS – 2-2 draw at Sporting Kansas City
5/7 – MLS – 2-0 win vs. Seattle Sounders

 

 

 

Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
22nd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 28-15-6 (4-2 PKs)
Home: 20-7-2 (2-0 PKs)
vs. MLS: 14-10-3 (3-0 PKs)
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champions (2004, 2012, 2015, 2017)

 

Current Season
2-6-3 9 Pts., 16 GF 23 GA, 12th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Johnny Russell, Daniel Salloi, Remi Walter, 2
Assists Leader: Cameron Duke, 2
Goalkeeping Leader: Tim Melia, 11 games, 1.45 GAA / 4 clean sheets

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 0-0 draw vs. Columbus Crew
4/30 – MLS – 2-2 draw vs. FC Dallas
5/7 – MLS – 0-0 draw at New York City FC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Portland Timbers (MLS) at Los Angeles FC (MLS) 
Banc of California Stadium; Los Angeles, CA 
Kickoff: 10:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

Los Angeles FC has a long way to go to catch up to their inter-city rivals LA Galaxy in Open Cup pedigree, but in their two Open Cup appearances so far they’re off to a good start. Their debut in 2018 saw them reach the Semifinals where they were eliminated by the Houston Dynamo on penalties after a 3-3 draw. In 2019 all three of their opponents were from MLS, and after knocking off Real Salt Lake and the San Jose Earthquakes, LAFC fell to the Portland Timbers 1-0 in the Quarterfinals. Of the eight Open Cup games LAFC has played, six have been at Banc of California Stadium, and they have a 5-1 record there. 

LAFC also has a historical hill to climb to reach the heights set by the Open Cup champions of Los Angeles. Leading the way is Maccabee AC with five Championships (1973, 1975, 1977, 1978 & 1981), tied with Bethlehem Steel for the most Open Cup titles in history. Other LA winners at the Los Angeles Galaxy (2001, 2005), Los Angeles Kickers (1958, 1964), and McIlvaine Canvasbacks (1959)

Portland’s game against LAFC will be the 15th straight Open Cup contest the Timbers have played against an MLS opponent, a streak that stretches back to 2014. The club holds an 8-6 record in the previous 14 games. Their last non-MLS opponent was the Orlando City U-23’s of the PDL (USL League Two) in the 2014 Fourth Round, a 3-0 win for Portland.

The two clubs faced off in the 2018 & 2019 Quarterfinals. In 2018 LAFC won 3-2 on goals from Carlos Vela, Marco Urena and a Timbers own goal. Portland’s goals came from Vytautas Andriuškevičius and Julio Cascante. In 2019 the Timbers avenged that loss with a 1-0 victory on Jeremy Ebobisse’s 84th minute goal.

Portland and LAFC played to a 1-1 draw back on March 6 when Mamdou Fall scored the equalizer for LAFC in 90th minute stoppage time. Yimmi Chara gave Portland an early 1-0 lead in the 18th minute, but the Timbers were forced to play with 10 men for the final 28 minutes when Cladio Bravo received his second yellow card and was sent off.

Los Angeles FC had an easy time in their 5-1 Third Round victory over Orange County SC. Cristian Arango and Danny Musovski each had two goals, and Cal Jennings added another.

The Portland Timbers celebrate after the club's 1-0 win over LAFC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Twitter @TimbersFC
The Portland Timbers celebrate after the club’s 1-0 win over LAFC in the Quarterfinals of the 2019 US Open Cup. Photo: Twitter @TimbersFC

Portland Timbers (MLS)
16th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 19-14-1 (0-1 PKs) (12-8-0 in MLS)
Away: 10-8-0 (5-6-0 in MLS)
MLS: 9-10-1 (0-1 PKs) (9-7 in MLS)
Best finish: Semifinals (2019)

 

 

Current Season
2-3-6 12 Pts., 11 GF 16 GA, 10th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Yimmi Chara, Jaroslaw Niezgoda, 3
Assists Leader: Yimmi Chara, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Aljaz Ivacic, 10 games, 1.500 GAA / 3 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 0-0 draw vs. Real Salt Lake
4/30 – MLS – 0-2 loss at Colorado Rapids
5/7 – MLS  – 1-1 draw at New York Red Bulls

 

 

 

Los Angeles FC (MLS)
3rd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 6-1-1
Home: 5-1-0
vs. MLS: 3-1-1 (0-1 PKs)
Best finish: Semifinals (2018)

 

 

Current Season
7-1-2 23 Pts., 23 GF 10 GA, 1st in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Carlos Vela, 4
Assists Leader: Jose Cifuentes, Diego Palacios, Carlos Vela, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: MAxime Crepeau, 10 games, 1.00 GAA / 3 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/24 – MLS – 2-1 win at FC Cincinnati
5/1 – MLS – 2-0 win vs. Minnesota United
5/7 – MLS – 2-2- draw vs. Philadelphia Union

 

 

 

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May 11, 2022

Charlotte FC (MLS) at Richmond Kickers (USL-1) 
City Stadium; Richmond, VA
Kickoff: 6:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

The Kickers have been involved in the Open Cup since 1995, winning that year’s tournament as an amateur club. Their most recent deep run came in 2011 when they knocked off two MLS clubs (Columbus & Kansas City) to reach the semifinals, where they lost to the Chicago Fire 2-1. Over the years Richmiond has jumped between second and third level USL leagues, having spent 2017 & 18 in the USL, then moving down when USL League One was created. 

While Richmond has never had the chance to face Charlotte FC in previous Open Cup tournaments, the Kickers have had six games with teams from North Carolina, and have not had good results with that state’s professional sides. Richmond is 2-4 all-time against teams from the Tar Heel state, and those two wins came against amateur clubs. All three of the four losses came against a professional team, North Carolina FC/Carolina RailHawks in 2007 (0-1, QF), 2009 (1-2, R1) and 2019 (1-4, R3). Richmond also holds a 5-13-1 (0-1 PKs) record against MLS teams, with their last win coming in the 2011 Quarterfinals against Sporting Kansas City. 

Charlotte faced a tough battle in their Open Cup debut in the Third Round, outlasting the Greenville Triumph of USL League One 2-1 in extra time. Christian Ortiz scored the opener just before halftime, and Harrison Afful netted the eventual game-winner in the 106th minute.

Richmond won their Second Round game 1-0 over Northern Virginia FC at home. The lone goal was netted by David Olden, his first goal in over four years while away from the game battling injuries. Their Third Round game against the North Carolina Fusion U-23s of USL League Two nearly went to penalties, but Emiliano Terzaghi scored in the 118th minute to avoid the upset from the amateurs.

Christian Ortiz of Charlotte FC celebrates after scoring a goal against Greenville Triumph in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Charlotte FC
Christian Ortiz of Charlotte FC celebrates after scoring a goal against Greenville Triumph in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Charlotte FC

Charlotte FC (MLS)
1st US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 1-0-0
Away: 0-0-0
vs. Division 3: 0-0-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2022)

 

Current Season
4-6-1 13 Pts., 10 GF 13 GA, 8th in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Karol Swiderski, 4
Assists Leader: Benjamin Bender, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Kristijan Kahlina, 11 games, 1.18 GAA / 4 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 0-0 draw at Colorado Rapids
4/30 – MLS – 1-2 loss at Orlando City SC
5-7 – MLS – 1-0 win vs. Inter Miami CF

 

 

 

Richmond Kickers (USL League One)
22nd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 33-19-4 (2-2 PKs)
Home: 26-7-1 (1-0 PKs)
vs. MLS: 5-13-1 (0-1 PKs)
Best finish: 1995 US Open Cup champions

 

 

Current Season
2-2-1, 7 Pts. 7 GF 4 GA, 5th in USL League One
Goal Scoring Leader: Emilinano Terzaghi, 3
Assists Leader: Leonardo Baima, 2
Goalkeeping Leader: Akira Fitzgerald, 5 games, 0.80 GAA / 1 clean sheet

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/20 – USOC 3R – 1-0 (AET) win vs. North Carolina Fusion U-23s
4/25 – USL L1 – 2-1 win at Charlotte Independence
5/7 – USL L1 – vs. Forward Madison

 

 

 

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Rochester New York FC (MLSNP) at New York City FC (MLS) 
Belson Stadium (St. John’s Univ.); Jamaica, NY 
Kickoff: 7 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

Rochester New York FC, who under the name Rochester Raging Rhinos remain the only non-MLS club to win the US Open Cup since 1996, had been on hiatus since 2018 due to financial difficulties, finally returning to play this season in MLS Next Pro. Rochester are the only independent club in the league, and if they remain so they’ll stay eligible to enter future Open Cup tournaments. In their 23 Open Cup appearances, RNYFC has played a remarkable 46 of their 64 Open Cup games at home, where they hold a 34-8-4 record. The club’s 40 Modern Era Open Cup wins ranks only second behind the Chicago Fire with 42. The last 16 times Rochester had played in the Open Cup, they have advanced to face an MLS club, a streak that runs back to 2002.

In their previous life Rochester was always an upset threat to MLS clubs, holding a respectable 7-6-2 (1-1 PKs) record from 1996-2005. Since then Rochester has managed just one outright win in 14 games against MLS opposition, advancing one other time on penalties. Their last win against an MLS team came in 2014 with a Fourth Round home win against defending champion D.C. United in a game that featured multiple delays.

NYCFC’s short Open Cup history has only seen one successful run, a trip to the Quarterfinals in 2019. Their previous four appearances all ended after one game to a pair of NYC clubs. In 1015 & 2016 they were upset by the NASL’s New York Cosmos, and in 2017 & 2018 the New York Red Bulls sent them packing.

Rochester has opened their 2022 tournament against a pair of amateur clubs. First up was a 1-0 win over Lansdowne Yonkers in the Second Round. Girban Rayo’s goal in first half stoppage time was enough for Rochester to see off the amateurs. Their Third Round game against FC Motown was a bit more difficult and dramatic. By the end of the second half Rochester found themselves playing with nine men after Lamar Batista and Pedro Dolabella received second half red cards. FC Motown then tied the game in stoppage time, but Rochester survived the two-man advantage for 35 minutes to win the penalty shootout after finishing 2-2 over 120 minutes.

Rochester New York FC celebrate after advancing 4-3 in penalty kicks (2-2 draw) against FC Motown in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Rochehster NY FC
Rochester New York FC celebrate after advancing 4-3 in penalty kicks (2-2 draw) against FC Motown in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Rochehster NY FC

Rochester New York FC (MLS Next Pro)
23rd US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 40-18-6 (3-3 PKs)
Away: 4-10-2 (1-1 PKs)
vs. MLS: 8-16-5 (2-3 PKs)
Best finish: Champions (1999)

Current Season
1-3-1 5 Pts., 5 GF 9 GA, 8th in MLS Next Pro Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Wilterlynd Inalien, 2
Assists Leader: Four players tied with 1
Goalkeeping Leader: Caique, 5 games, 1.80 GAA / 1 clean sheet

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/20 – USOC 3R – 2-2 (AET/4-3 PKs) draw vs. FC Motown
4/23 – MLS NP – 2-3 loss vs. New York City FC II
5/8 – MLS NP – 2-1 win at FC Cincinnati 2

 

 

 

New York City FC (MLS)
6th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 2-3-2 (0-2 PKs)
Home: 1-1-0
vs. Division 2: 1-1-1 (0-1 PKs)
Best finish: Quarterfinals (2019)

 

 

Current Season
4-3-2 14 Pts., 19 GF 10 GA, 6th in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Valentin Castellanos, 5
Assists Leader: Talles Magno, 5
Goalkeeping Leader: Sean Johnson, 9 games, 1.11 GAA / 4 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/24 – MLS – 5-4 win vs. Toronto FC
5/1 – MLS – 3-0 win vs. San Jose Earthquakes
5/7 – MLS – 0-0 draw vs. Sporting Kansas City

 

 

 

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FC Cincinnati (MLS) at New England Revolution (MLS) 
Gillette Stadium: Foxborough, MA 
Kickoff: 7 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

Cincinnati’s Open Cup history actually goes all the way back to the 1931 tournament, when teams from the Queen City began entering the Ohio district’s qualifying rounds. The teams didn’t find much success and by the end of the 1930’s the city went dormant in Open Cup play until the early 1970’s. 

FC Cincinnati of course had their famous Open Cup run in 2017 as a USL club, reaching the semifinals and drawing crowds over 30K to three of the games they hosted that year. The game that put them on center stage was their epic Fifth Round contest with the Chicago Fire, which was televised live on ESPN. After a 0-0 draw Cincinnati advanced on penalty kicks, and went on to push the New York Red Bulls to extra time before losing 3-2 in the semifinals.

This will be the first Open Cup game for the Revs at Gillette Stadium since their 3-1 win over the Chicago Fire in the 2016 Semifinals. Overall New England have only played one other of their 21 Open Cup home games at Gillette Stadium, a 2-1 win over the Harrisburg City Islanders in the 2007 Quarterfinals. Their first five Open Cup games in 2000 & 2001 were at the old Foxboro Stadium. The Revs other home Open Cup games have been played in Boston, Ludlow MA, Providence, RI, New Britain, CT.

FC Cincinnati needed 120 minutes for their 2-0 Third Round win over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Alvaro Barreal scored twice in the first ten minutes of extra time to give Cincinnati the edge they needed to advance.

FC Cincinnati Pittsburgh Riverhounds 2022 US Open Cup Luciano Acosta
Luciano Acosta of FC Cincinnati dribbles against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: FC Cincinnati
4/19/2022
Photographer:Brett Hansbauer/4th Floor Creative

FC Cincinnati (MLS)
5th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 9-3-2 (2-1 in Major League Soccer)
Away: 2-2-0 (0-1 in Major League Soccer)
vs. MLS: 1-1-2 (1-1 PKs) (0-0 in Major League Soccer)
Best finish: Semifinals (2017)

 

Current Season
5-5-1 16 Pts., 14 GF 17 GA, 5th in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Brandon Vasquez, 6
Assists Leader: Luciano Acosta, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Alec Kann, 7 games, 2.00 GAA / 1 clean sheet

Last Three Games
4/30 – MLS – 2-1 win at Toronto FC
5/4 – MLS – 0-2 loss at FC Cincinnati
5/7 – MLS – 1-0 win vs. Minnesota United

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New England Revolution (MLS)
19th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 20-15-5 (3-2 PKs)
Home: 13-5-3 (2-1 PKs)
vs. MLS: 7-10-1 (1-0 PKs)
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champion (2007)

 

Current Season
3-5-2 11 Pts., 16 GF 18 GA, 11th in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Adam Buksa, 4
Assists Leader: Carles Gil, 5
Goalkeeping Leader: Earl Edwards Jr., 4 games, 2.00 GAA / 1 clean sheet
Brad Knighton, 4 games, 2.00 GAA / 0 gclean sheets

 

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 2-3 loss at D.C. United
4/30 – MLS – 2-0 win vs. Inter Miami CF
5/7 – MLS – 2-2 draw vs. Columbus Crew

 

 

 

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Atlanta United FC (MLS) at Nashville SC (MLS) 
GEODIS Park; Nashville, TN
Kickoff: 8 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

In a way this will be Nashville SC’s re-debut in the Open Cup, as it will be their first game in the tournament as a MLS club after their previous two appearances came as a USL team. Five of their six previous Open Cup games were home affairs for Nashville, but this will be the first in their very own stadium. All three home games in 2018 were at Vanderbilt in Nashville, and their two in 2019 were at Middle Tennessee State in Murfreesboro, TN. Nashville holds a 4-0-1 record at home 

Atlanta’s first prominent team in the Open Cup was Datagraphic in the early 1980’s. Datagraphic reached the Quarterfinals in 1979, and then the Semifinals in 1981. The club also won the 1979 National Amateur Cup.

After the previous two Open Cup tournaments had been canceled due to COVID-19, Atlanta United was able to begin defense of their 2019 Championship. The Five Stripes  had no trouble with Chattanooga FC in the Third Round, cruising to a 6-0 victory. Dom Dwyer scored twice, with Ronald Hernandez, Marcelino Moreno, Luis Araujo and Brooks Lennon adding to the score for the defending Open Cup Champions.

The clubs have yet to meet in MLS play this season, with their first game coming ten days after their Open Cup contest, once again in Nashville.

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 (MLS)
4th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 8-2-0
Away: 2-1-0
vs. MLS: 3-1-0
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champions (2019)

 

 

 

 

Current Season
4-4-2 14 Pts., 15 GF 14 GA, 7th in MLS Eastern Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Ronaldo Cisneros, 4
Assists Leader: Marcelino Moreno, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Brad Guzan, 7 games, 1.32 GAA / 1 clean sheet

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/24 – MLS – 1-2 loss at Inter Miami CF
4/30 – MLS – 1-2 loss at CF Montreal
5/7 – MLS – 4-1 win vs. Chicago FIre

 

 

 

Nashville FC (Major League Soccer)
3rd US Open Cup appearance (1st in MLS)
Overall: 4-1-1 (0-1 PKs)
Away: 4-0-1 (0-1 PKs)
vs. MLS: 1-0-0
Best finish: Fifth Round (2018)

 

Current Season
4-3-3 15 Pts., 11 GF 10 GA, 6th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: CJ Sapong, 3
Assists Leader: Hany Mukhtar, 4
Goalkeeping Leader: Joe Willis, 10 games, 1.00 GAA / 3 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 0-1 loss at Los Angeles Galaxy
5/1 – MLS – 1-1 draw vs. Philadelphia Union
5/8 – MLS – 2-0 win vs. Real Salt Lake

 

 

 

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Colorado Rapids (MLS) at Minnesota United FC (MLS) 
Allianz Field; St. Paul, MN 
Kickoff: 8 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

The Colorado Rapids are the worst MLS team as far as the Open Cup goes. Only once in their previous 17 appearances they have advanced past a second game, that came in 1999 when they reached the Final. The Rapids lost to the Rochester Raging Rhinos 2-0, the only non-MLS club to win the Open Cup since 1996. Their record against MLS teams in the Open Cup is just 4-8-0, with the last win coming in the 2006 Fourth Round over Real Salt Lake. Since then the Rapids are 0-5 vs. MLS. Their record on the road isn’t much better, 5-16-0 with their last road win coming versus the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the 2012 Third Round.

The state of Minnesota’s first entry in the Open Cup game in the 1958 tournament, when the Minneapolis Tigers were the only entry from the state. The Tigers lost to Milwaukee’s Serbian SC 2-1 in extra time, and in the following years the Minnesota entry would play the Wisconsin winner, but failed each time to get past their neighbors to the East.

Minnesota United didn’t have much Open Cup success either in the NASL (2010-2016) or MLS, only advancing past a second game just once in 2012. In 2019 the club finally broke through, making their way to the Final where they lost to Atlanta United 2-1. As an MLS club the Loons are 3-0-0 at home, but hold just a 3-3-0 record against MLS teams.

Minnesota took the first step in returning to the Final with a 2-0 win over Forward Madison in the Third Round. Adrien Honou and Brent Kallman scored in the second half.

Colorado and Minnesota met earlier this season at St. Paul, MN in MLS play on April 16 with Minnesota coming out 3-1 winners. Bakaye Dibassy, Robin Lod and Abu Danladi scored for Minnesota, with Diego Rubio getting the lone marker for Colorado.

Bongokuhle Hlongwane of Minnesota United battles for the ball in the club's match against Forward Madison in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Minnesota United
Bongokuhle Hlongwane of Minnesota United battles for the ball in the club’s match against Forward Madison in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Minnesota United

Colorado Rapids (MLS)
18th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 13-18-1 (0-1 PKs)
Away: 5-16-0
vs. MLS: 4-8-0
Best finish: Final (1999)

 

Current Season
3-4-3 12 Pts., 11 GF 12 GA, 9th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Diego Rubio, 5
Assists Leader: Michael Barrios, 4
Goalkeeping Leader: Will Yagbrough, 10 games, 1.20 GAA / 4 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 0-0 draw vs. Charlotte FC
4/30 – MLS – 2-0 win vs. Portland Timbers
5/7 – MLS – 0-1 loss at San Jose Earthquakes

 

 

 

Minnesota United (MLS)
11th US Open Cup appearance | 4th in Major League Soccer
Overall: 10-8-2 (1-1 PKS) | 5-3-1 (1-0 PKs) in Major League Soccer
Home: 4-3-0 | 3-0-0 in Major League Soccer
vs. MLS: 4-6-0 | 3-3-0 in Major League Soccer
Best finish: Final (2019)

 

 

Current Season
4-4-2 14 Pts., 11 GF 9 GA, 7th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Robin Lod, 3
Assists Leader: Emanuel Renesto, 4
Goalkeeping Leader: Dayne St, Clair, 8 games, 0.66 GAA / 3 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 3-0 win vs. Chicago Fire
5/1 – MLS – 0-2 loss at Los Angeles FC
5/7 – MLS – 0-1 loss vs. FC Cincinnati

 

 

 

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Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC (USL-1) at Union Omaha (USL-1) 
Caniglia Field (Univ. of Nebraska at Omaha); Omaha, NE 
Kickoff: 8 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

Northern Colorado had the odd distinction of their debut Open Cup match also being their first ever match as a club. Despite being outshot 25-9 by the Colorado Springs Switchbacks, the Hailstorm pulled off the 1-0 upset in extra time on Jerry Desdunes’ goal in the 96th minute.

In the Third Round, Robert Cornwall made the most of his teams’ one shot on goal, netting the game winner in the 70th minute to upset Real Salt Lake.

Union Omaha had to go a long longer to pull off the upset in their Third Round match with the Chicago Fire. Noe Meza scored the tying goal midway through the second half, and in extra time Alex Touche sent the game to penalties with a 120th minute stoppage time goal . Rashid Nuhu saved Chicago’s Final penalty to give Omaha the upset.

While they await the completion of their new stadium, Northern Colorado will not play its first home game in USL League One until June 8 when it hosts North Carolina FC

The Hailstorm and Union have not faced each other in USL League One yet, but the club will meet twice before the end of the month on May 11 & 28, both at Omaha.

Robert Cornwall of Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against Real Salt Lake in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Ashley Potts | Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC
Robert Cornwall of Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against Real Salt Lake in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Ashley Potts | Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC

Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC (USL League One)

1st US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 2-0-0
Away: 2-0-0
vs. Division 3: 0-0-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2002)

Current Season
1-2-1 4 Pts., 5 GF 8 GA, 10th in USL League One
Goal Scoring Leader: Irvin Parra, 2
Assists Leader: Four players tied with 1
Goalkeeping Leader: Thomas Olden, 3 games, 2.33 GAA / 0 clean sheets

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/20 – USOC 3R – 1-0 win at Real Salt Lake
4/30 – USL L1 – 2-1 win at North Carolina FC
5/7 – USL L1 – 1-4 loss at Chattanooga Red Wolves

 

 

 

Union Omaha (USL League One)
1st US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 2-0-0
Home: 1-0-0
vs. Division 3: 0-0-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2002)

 

Current Season
1-1-2 5 Pts., 6 GF 4 GA, 8th in USL League One
Goal Scoring Leader: Hugo Kametani, John Scearce, 2
Assists Leader: Noe Meza, 2
Goalkeeping Leader: Rashid Nuhu, 3 games, 0.67 GAA / 2 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/19 – USOC 3R – 2-2 (AET/5-4 PKs) draw at Chicago Fire
4/23 – USL L1 – 3-0 win vs. Central Valley Fuego
4/30 – USL L1 – 2-1 loss at Charlotte Independence

Union Omaha Chicago Fire 2022 US Open Cup Soldier Field
Union Omaha celebrate after eliminating the Chicago Fire 5-4 in penalty kicks (after a 2-2 draw) in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup at Soldier Field. Photo: Union Omaha

 

 

 

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San Antonio FC (USL-C) at Houston Dynamo (MLS) 
PNC Stadium; Houston, TX 
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

Houston has quite a remarkable home field record in the Open Cup, having played 21 of their 31 cup games at home. 14 of their last 17 Cup games have been at PNC Stadium, including the last 9 games. Their entire championship run (5 games) in 2018 was played at PNC. The Dynamo are 5-2-1 (0-1 PKs) against division 2 clubs in the Open Cup, and their last loss to a team from that level came in the 2012 Third Round when the NASL’s San Antonio Scorpions upset them 1-0 at San Antonio.

San Antonio have made decent runs in their short Open Cup history, twice going three rounds deep in 2016 and 2018. In those years their tournament ended at the hands of MLS teams. In ‘16 they dropped a 4-0 decision to Houston, and in ‘18 FC Dallas stopped their run 1-0. The 2016 game is the only time the two clubs have met in Open Cup play.

Both clubs had to fight to the very end in their Third Round games. Houston needed a stoppage-time winner from Samuel Janqua to get past the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros 2-1. Each team gifted the other with own goals earlier in the game. San Antonio upset Austin FC 2-1 in extra time at home on goals from Elliot Collier and Carter Manley, but the hero was goalkeeper Jordan Farr. Through the 120 minutes, Farr made seven saves off 28 shots, including stopping a scramble right in front of the goal just before the final whistle.

San Antonio FC goalkeeper Jordan Farr punches the ball away in his club's match against Austin FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: San Antonio FC
San Antonio FC goalkeeper Jordan Farr punches the ball away in his club’s match against Austin FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Farr finished a close second in TheCup.us Player of the Round voting in Round 3. Photo: San Antonio FC

San Antonio FC (USL Championship)
5th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 7-3-2 (1-1 PKs)
Away: 3-2-1 (0-1 PKs)
vs. MLS: 0-2-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2016, 2018, 2022)

Current Season
7-2-0  21 Pts., 14 GF 7 GA, 2nd in USL Championship Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Elliot Collier, 4
Assists Leader: Connor Maloney, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Jordan Farr, 6 games, 0.83 GAA / 4 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – USLC – 1-0 win at New Mexico United
4/30 – USLC – 6-0 win vs. Monterey Bay FC
5/7 – USLC – 0-3 loss at Phoenix Rising FC

 

 

 

Houston Dynamo (MLS)
14th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 18-11-2 (1-1 PKs)
Home: 15-5-1 (1-0 PKs)
vs. Division 2: 6-2-1 (0-1 PKs)
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champions (2018)

 

 

Current Season
3-4-3 12 Pts., 12 GF 13 GA, 8th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Sebastian Ferreira, Darwin Quintero, 4
Assists Leader: Adam Lundqvist, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Steve Clark, 10 games, 1.30 GAA / 2 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 1-2 loss at FC Dallas
4/30 – MLS – 1-2 loss vs. Austin FC
5/7 – MLS – 0-2 loss at D.C. United

 

 

 

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San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) at Seattle Sounders FC (MLS) 
Starfire Sports Complex; Tukwila, WA 
Kickoff: 10 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

The Earthquakes are on a four game home Open Cup winning streak that goes back to 2017. The club has had limited success in their 16 previous Cup appearances, having reached the Quarterfinals nine times but only advancing to the Semifinals twice (2004 & 2017). The ‘Quakes are just 2-9-4()0-4 PKs) against MLS competition, with their last win coming against Seattle in the 2017 Fifth Round.

As a USL club Seattle made Semifinal runs in 2007 & 2008, but once they moved to MLS in 2009 they cemented themselves as one of the great Open Cup teams of all time. The Sounders reached the Final four straight times from 2009-2012, winning the first three, becoming just the fourth team to win three consecutive Open Cup championships. The others are Fall River Marksmen (1929-1931), Stix, Baer & Fuller (1933-1935) and NY Greek American AA (1967-1969). 

Seattle won a fourth title in 2014, adding themselves to another select list of teams to officially win that many, joining the Chicago Fire (1998, 2000, 2003, 2006), Fall River Marksmen (1927, 1929-1931), Greek American AA (1967-1969, 1974), Ukrainian Nationals (1960, 1961, 1963, 1966), and Sporting Kansas City (2004, 2012, 2015, 2017).

Seattle has the unique situation of having a regular Open Cup venue outside of their normal league venue. Over the years the Sounders have played 22 of their 34 home Open Cup games at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Washington, reserving the larger Lumen Field for home games in the later rounds. From 2005-2014 the Sounders won 19 straight Open Cup games at Starfire, and have an over record of 20-1-1 with one in via PKs.

San Jose rolled over Bay Cities FC of NISA 5-0 in the Third Round, with Jack Skahan, Paul Marie, Cade Cowell, Niko Tskarias and Ousseni Bousa scoring.

Paul Marie of the San Jose Earthquakes celebrates after scoring a goal against Bay Cities FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Photos by Benny Blanco | @Bennyy_Blanco
Paul Marie of the San Jose Earthquakes celebrates after scoring a goal against Bay Cities FC in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Photos by Benny Blanco | @Bennyy_Blanco

San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)
17th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 16-12-7 (3-4 PKs)
Away: 7-7-4 (2-2 PKs)
vs. MLS: 2-9-4 (0-4 PKs)
Best finish: Semifinals (2004, 2017)

Current Season
2-5-3 9 PTs., 16 GF 23 GA, 11th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Jeremy Ebobisse, 5
Assists Leader: Jan Gregus, 5
Goalkeeping Leader: JT Marcinkowski, 10 games, 2.30 GAA / 1 clean sheet

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 3-4 loss vs. Seattle Sounders
5/1 – MLS – 0-3 loss at New York City FC
5/7 – MLS – 1-0 win vs. Colorado Rapids

 

 

 

Seattle Sounders (MLS)
24th US Open Cup appearance (12th in MLS)
Overall: 38-17-6 (4-2 PKs) | 21-6-4 (3-1 PKs in MLS
Home: 28-4-2 (2-0 PKs) | 17-2-1 (1-0 PKs)
vs. MLS: 19-11-3 (2-1 PKs) | 15-4-2 (1-1) in MLS
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champion (2009, 2010, 2011, 2014)

 

Current Season
2-5-1 7 Pts., 9 GF 13 GA, 13th in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Jordan Morris, 2
Assists Leader: Nicolas Lodeiro, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Stefan Frei, 5 games, 1.80 GAA / 0 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 3-4 loss at San Jose Earthquakes
5/4 – CONCACAF CL – 3-0 win vs. UNAM Pumas
5/7 – MLS – 0-2 loss at FC Dallas

 

 

 

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Phoenix Rising FC (USL-C) at Sacramento Republic FC (USL-C) 
Heart Health Park; Sacramento, CA 
Kickoff: 10:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

Phoenix Rising has struggled in its six Open Cup appearances, holding a 6-4-2 (0-2 PKs), and are 2-2-1 (0-1 PKs) against teams from their own level.

Sacramento is nearly unbeaten at home in the Open Cup, carrying a 14-1-0 record with an active 9 game home winning streak dating back to 2017, the longest current streak of its kind. Sacramento are also 4-0 against competition from their own level.

Sacramento has gone as deep as the fifth round on two occasions, in 2017 & 2018. Each time they knocked off MLS opposition, 3-1 over Real Salt Lake in ‘17, and a 2-1 extra time win over Seattle in 2018.

Sacramento had no trouble beating the Portland Timbers U-23s 6-0 in the Second Round. Sacramento held a 6-0 lead at halftime and eased up in the second half so as not to run up the score on the youngsters. Their Third Round game against Central Valley Fuego was a bit more challenging. Despite being outshot 23-7, the Fuego held on to a 1-1 tie for most of the game. Sacramento was awarded a penalty in the 5th minute of stoppage time, which Rodrigo Lopez converted to give Republic a 2-1 win.

Phoenix had a hard time with Valley United FC (NISA) in the Second Round. Claudio Repetto broke the scoreless draw after 115 minutes to give Phoenix a 1-0 win. Phoenix’s Third Round win over New Mexico United came late. New Mexico gifted Phoenix an early lead with an own goal, then tied the game midway through the second half. Greg Hurst won the game for Phoenix with an 81st minute goal.

The teams are even in USL Championship play since 2014 at 6 wins 6 losses and 7 draws. Phoenix has not lost to Sacramento since a 3-1 defeat on May 19, 2018 and holds a 4-0-4 record in the series since then. The clubs have managed to avoid each other in Open Cup play until this year.

Players from Phoenix Rising FC and New Mexico United battle for the ball in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Eryn Nicholson | Phoenix Rising FC
Players from Phoenix Rising FC and New Mexico United battle for the ball in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Eryn Nicholson | Phoenix Rising FC

 

Phoenix Rising FC (USL Championship)
7th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 6-4-2 (0-2 PKs)
Away: 3-0-1 (0-1 PKs)
vs. Division 2: 0-1-1 (0-1 PKs)
Best finish: Fourth Round (2014, 2022)

Current Season
6-3-0, 18 Pts., 18 GF 12 GA, 4th in USL Championship Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Greg Hurst, Luis Seijas, 4
Assists Leader: Aodhan Quinn, 3
Goalkeeping Leader: Benjamin Lundt, 9 games, 1.33 GAA / 3 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – USLC – 2-1 win vs. Miami FC
5/1 – USLC – 0-3 loss at Los Angeles Galaxy II
5/7 – USLC – 3-0 win vs. San Antonio FC

 

 

 

Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship)
7th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 15-5-1 (0-1 PKs)
Home: 14-1-0
vs. Division 2: 4-0-0
Best finish: Fifth Round (2017, 2018)

Current Season
4-2-3, 15 Pts., 11 GF 9 GA, 5th in USL Championship Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Douglas Martinez, Rodrigo Lopez, 2
Assists Leader: Douglas Martinez, 2
Goalkeeping Leader: Daniel Vitiello, 6 games, 1.00 GAA / 1 clean sheet

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/30 – USLC – 1-1 draw vs. Las Vegas Lights
5/4 – USLC – 0-0 draw vs. New Mexico United
5/8 –  USLC – 1-0 win at New York Red Bulls II

 

 

Sacramento Republic Portland Timbers U-23s 2022 US Open Cup
Players from Sacramento Republic celebrate during the club’s game against Portland Timbers U-23s in the Second Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: John Jacobs

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LA Galaxy (MLS) at California United Strikers FC (NISA) 
Orange County Great Park (Championship Stadium); Irvine, CA 
Kickoff: 10:30 p.m.
Broadcast: ESPN+

 

 

 

It’s been 16 years since the Galaxy’s back to back Finals appearances, and since then they’ve struggled to find consistent success. 2007 through 2014 saw a string of tournaments the Galaxy did not qualify for or were eliminated after just two games.2015 saw a return to the Quarterfinals followed by a Semifinal (2016) and another Quarterfinal (2017). The last two tournaments the Galaxy were stopped by the Portland Timbers each time.

Ther Galaxy have struggles on the road in Open Cup play, holding a 9-14-1 (1-0 PKs) record. Five of those losses are to njon-MLS clubs, the last coming in the 2014 Fifth Round to the Carolina RailHawks (now North Carolina FC).

California United Strikers FC made their Open Cup debut in the Second Round with a resounding 5-0 win over San Fernando Valley FC of the UPSL. The star of the show was 15-year old Marcus Lee, who scored the opening goal in the 4th minute and assisted on another. 

Lee has his very own supporters group from the high school he attends, and is believed to be the youngest player ever to score an Open Cup goal.

California United won their Third Round game over FC Tucson in dramatic fashion. Down 1-0 for most of the game, Omar Nuno tied the score in the 71st minute, and on his debut for the club, Ryotaro Kawashima won the game in stoppage time.

The Galaxy welcomed former club legend and San Diego Loyal manager Landon Donovan to Dignity Health Sports Park in the Third Round, and came away 1-0 winners. Kevin Cabral scored the lone goal of the game.

Omar Nuno of California United Strikers scores a goal against FC Tucson in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Cal United Strikers
Omar Nuno of California United Strikers scores a goal against FC Tucson in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Cal United Strikers

Los Angeles Galaxy (MLS)
17th US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 33-17-1 (1-0mPKs)
Away: 9-14-1 (1-0 Pks)
vs. Division 3: 2-1-0
Best finish: U.S. Open Cup Champions (2001, 2005)

 

 

Current Season
6-3-1 10 Pts., 11 GF 7 GA, 3rd in MLS Western Conference
Goal Scoring Leader: Chicharito, 5
Assists Leader: Raheem Edwards, 5
Goalkeeping Leader: Jonathan Bond, 10 games, 0.70 GAA / 5 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – MLS – 1-0 win vs. Nashville SC
4/30 – MLS – 0-1 loss at Real Salt Lake
5/8 – 1-0 win at Austin FC

 

 

 

California United Strikers FC (NISA)
1st US Open Cup appearance
Overall: 2-0-0
Home: 1-0-0
vs. MLS: 0-0-0
Best finish: Fourth Round (2022)

Current Season
4-2-0 14 Pts., 9 GF 4 GA, 1st in NISA West Division
Goal Scoring Leader: Omar Nuno, 3
Assists Leader: Felipe Liborio Jr., 2
Goalkeeping Leader: Jean Gamain Antoine, 3 games, 0.00 GAA / 3 clean sheets

 

 

 

 

Last Three Games
4/23 – NISA – 4-3 win vs. Bay Cities FC
5/1 – NISA – 1-0 win at AC Syracuse Pulse
5/4 – NISA – 2-1 win at Flower City Union

 

 

 

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Filed Under: 2022 US Open Cup, Feature - Main, Featured Post - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2022 US Open Cup, Major League Soccer, MLS, Preview

2018 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Portland Timbers withdraw protest against LAFC

July 21, 2018 by Harrison Huntley

LA

After filing a protest against Los Angeles FC over the number of international players used in their quarterfinal loss, Portland Timbers have withdrawn their protest. US Soccer released the following statement on Friday night:

“After a thorough review of the Portland Timbers’ official protest, it has been determined that the inclusion of additional foreign players was a result of a good faith misunderstanding among U.S. Soccer, Major League Soccer and Los Angeles Football Club. Each organization involved has agreed to determine an improved process to ensure this will not happen again. In recognition of this fact, the Timbers have gracefully withdrawn their protest.”

The misunderstanding seemed to be in regards to Mark-Anthony Kaye, a Canadian player on LAFC. Since MLS has teams in both the US and Canada, Kaye is considered a domestic player in league play. However, in US Open Cup play, he would usually be considered an international player. Sources have told TheCup.us that LAFC contacted the federation to confirm that Kaye was eligible. He was reportedly approved.

Whether LAFC believed they had clearance to use Kaye as a domestic player, or simply forgot that the rules were different in the USOC, it seems all has been resolved now. The club released this statement:

“We are pleased the situation has been resolved,” LAFC Vice President of Soccer Operations & General Manager John Thorrington said. “From the start, we proactively did our due diligence with U.S. Soccer to ensure our roster was compliant with U.S. Open Cup guidelines. We have stayed within those guidelines throughout the tournament and will continue to do so moving forward. We are excited to turn our attention to taking on the Houston Dynamo in the U.S. Open Cup Semifinals.”

LAFC will move on to face Houston Dynamo in the semifinals. The host will be determined by a draw that will happen in the next few days.

Filed Under: 2018 US Open Cup, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2018 US Open Cup, Feature, Los Angeles FC, MLS, Portland Timbers

2016 US Open Cup Final: Mauro Diaz helps FC Dallas beat Revolution to end 19-year title drought

September 14, 2016 by Adam Uthe

FC Dallas: 2016 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup champions. Photo: FC Dallas
FC Dallas: 2016 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup champions. Photo: FC Dallas

UPDATE: Mauro Diaz wins his second consecutive TheCup.us Player of the Round award

Mauro Diaz set up two goals and then converted a penalty kick in the first half, before adding a third assist in the second half, and FC Dallas defeated the New England Revolution 4-2 in front of a standing room only crowd of 16,612 at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.

With owner Clark Hunt and team president Dan Hunt looking on, the last remaining MLS team owned and operated by the Hunt family took home its second Lamar Hunt US Open Cup trophy; the first coming back in 1997 before the trophy was eventually named after Lamar in 1999. The then-Dallas Burn defeated DC United 5-3 on penalty kicks after playing to a scoreless draw in regulation. It was also the first US Open Cup final rematch since 1944. The two teams met back in 2007 with New England coming away with a 3-2 win on the same field, including a goal from the game’s ESPN color commentator Taylor Twellman.

With the win, FC Dallas earns a $250,000 cash prize, and a spot in the 2017/18 CONCACAF Champions League.

It didn’t take long for the game to get going. In the sixth minute, Gershon Koffie played a pass to Juan Agudelo, who was posting up Dallas center back Walker Zimmerman at the top of the box. Agudelo spun Zimmerman neatly and took a quick touch to set up his shot before beating Dallas goalkeeper Chris Seitz to put the Revolution up 1-0 early.

Agudelo’s goal is the second-fastest goal scored in a US Open Cup Final in the Modern Era (1995-present). The only goal that was faster was Luciano Emilio of D.C. United who scored in the 4th minute in 2008.

Dallas was quick to respond though. In the 15th minute, Diaz drove a low, very early cross into the box to Maxi Urruti, who needed just one touch to control it and fire past New England keeper Brad Knighton for the equalizer.

Minutes later, Mauro Rosales went down in the box under a challenge from Watson, but referee Baldamero Toledo did not blow the whistle. It would prove to be an irrelevant moment.

In the 40th minute, a Dallas corner wasn’t quite cleared by the Revs and Diaz floated a feathery cross back into the box and it found the head of Matt Hedges who finished calmly to make it 2-1 Dallas.

Several minutes of added time were needed at the end of the first half due to several players needing treatment in the first half. One of those players was Je-Vaughn Watson, who had to be substituted right before halftime. He was replaced by Chris Tierney as New England coach Jay Heaps had to burn his second substitution before halftime; Kei Kamara was brought on for Koffie in the 42nd minute.

To make matters worse for New England, the first half went on just long enough for Jose Goncalves to bring down Matt Hedges in the box during a free kick to earn the home side a penalty kick. Diaz stepped up and converted to add a goal to his two first half assists and put his team up 3-1 going into the locker room at halftime. The four combined first half goals were the most in an Open Cup final since 1983.

Diaz continued his stellar form in the second half, placing a perfect through ball to an on-rushing Urruti who calmly slotted home to make it 4-1 Dallas in the 61st minute.

The two almost repeated their connection for a third time a few minutes later, but Urruti was whistled for offside coming off a Diaz free kick. Kei Kamara almost got one back for the Revs in the 67th minute, but his leaning header went just wide of goal.

Urruti continued to go hunting for a third in the 71st minute, but his header from second half substitute Tesho Akindele hit the far post. New England’s final substitute, Teal Bunbury (on for Kellyn Rowe), almost made an instant impact but his curled shot went just wide of the far post.

Then in the 73rd minute, Juan Agudelo found himself open at the far post and received a fortuitous deflection off a Dallas defender on the cross from Bunbury and brought it back to 4-2.

Kamara got his head on another cross in the 77th minute, but Seitz did well as he made his only save of the evening for Dallas. In the 82nd minute, Victor Ulloa, who scored the winner for Dallas against Los Angeles in the semifinals, came on for Diaz, who received a standing ovation from the home crowd as he exited the game.

It was a history-making night for Diaz as he broke multiple Open Cup Final records for the Modern Era (1995-present). Diaz broke the single-game record for assists (3) and points with five (1 goal, 3 assists). He also brought his tournament total to five assists which ties Diego Serna’s single-tournament mark set in 2000 with the Miami Fusion.

“Mauro’s performance tonight, I thought, was a collection of what he has done this year. Mauro showed the heart of this club.”, Dallas head coach Oscar Pareja said of his captain’s performance.

“It means a lot. Tonight is a night I won’t ever forget.”, Pareja added when asked about what it meant to win his first trophy as a head coach.

Cup finals are traditionally fairly low-scoring affairs, but with six total goals, the 103rd Final is the highest-scoring championship game since 1984. That year, New York’s AO Krete defeated Chicago’s Croatian SC 4-2.

Although the 2016 edition of the tournament is officially in the books, Open Cup fans need not worry: Qualifying is already underway for the 2017 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup!

#USOC2016 NOTES (TheCup.us)

* 16,612 was the announced attendance which shatters FC Dallas’ club record for US Open Cup attendance. The previous record was set in 2007 when 10,618 attended the Final against the New England Revolution. The total ranks 8th among US Open Cup Final attendance figures in the Modern Era.

* Maxi Urruti of FC Dallas and Juan Agudelo of the New England Revolution become the first pair of players in the same game to each score multiple goals in a Final (Modern Era). Prior tonight, only one player (Sanna Nyassi of the Seattle Sounders in 2010) had scored more than one goal in a Final since 1995.

* With the win, FC Dallas ends a 19-year trophy drought, which was, by far, the longest among MLS teams.

* FC Dallas becomes just the second Texas-based club to win the US Open Cup (Dallas Burn – 1997).

* This is the 31st US Open Cup win for FC Dallas in club history, which moves them into a tie for 4th place among clubs in the Modern Era.

Filed Under: Feature - Main, US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup, FC Dallas/Dallas Burn, MLS, New England Revolution

2016 US Open Cup Final preview: Why FC Dallas or New England Revolution will lift the trophy on Tuesday

September 12, 2016 by Josh Hakala

A statue of the late Lamar Hunt on display outside of FC Dallas' Toyota Stadium in Frisco, TX. Photo: FC Dallas
A statue of the late Lamar Hunt on display outside of FC Dallas’ Toyota Stadium in Frisco, TX. Photo: FC Dallas

On Tuesday night in Frisco, Texas, soccer fans will gather at Toyota Stadium to witness a rematch of the 2007 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Final. It will feature the same teams, at the same stadium.

FC Dallas will look to avenge their loss in the 2007 Final to the New England Revolution in what is a battle between two teams who are desperately looking to add to their trophy case. Both clubs have just one US Soccer Major to their credit, FC Dallas won a US Open Cup title in 1997, and the Revolution’s only major came in that 2007 title game.

This is the 103rd US Open Cup Final and some fans might be surprised to learn that this is just the fifth time that a pair of clubs have met more than once in a title game. Five-time winners Bethlehem Steel and the Fall River Rovers met three straight years between 1916-18. Stix, Baer & Fuller from St. Louis played the Pawtucket Rangers (Rhode Island) in back-to-back years in 1934 and 1935. The last championship rematch the tournament had was during World War II when Brooklyn Hispano defeated Morgan Strasser (Pittsburgh) in 1943 and 1944.

2016-us-open-cup-trophy-press-conferenceThe two teams, aside from trying to break their respective trophy droughts, they are trying to win a championship for some relatively trophy-starved states. The state of Texas has only seen one US Open Cup title (1997 – Dallas Burn) with just six teams reaching the Final (4 of them being FC Dallas). This is the 17th time that a team from Massachusetts has reached the championship game and nine of those teams lifted the trophy. However, aside from the Revolution’s 2007 cup win, the state hasn’t had a winner since 1947 (Ponta Delgada).

The winner of Tuesday’s Final will received a $250,000 cash prize and a berth in the 2017/18 CONCACAF Champions League.

The game will be broadcast live, for the second straight year, on ESPN2 and Univision Deportes. Fans can watch the game online through the Watch ESPN app. Kickoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. Eastern Time.

Below, you will find links to our tournament coverage on TheCup.us, as well as an in-depth look at both teams entering Tuesday’s championship game.

You can also follow qualifying for the 2017 US Open Cup using the hashtag #USOC2017 and TheCup.us’ Qualifying page.

You can get all the latest US Open Cup updates through Twitter, using the hashtag #USOC2016. Use that same hashtag on Instagram to share your US Open Cup-related photos.

#USOC2016 coverage:
* 2016 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup schedule, results (video/audio links)
* 2016 US Open Cup bracket (TheCup.us)
* 2016 US Open Cup statistical leaders
* 2016 TheCup.us Player of the Round winners
* 2016 Meet the Underdogs series
* USSF’s new US Open Cup qualifying tournament has challenges to address after year one
* US Open Cup Final goalscoring leaders (1914-2015)
* Series of forfeits, teams with ineligible players overshadow 2016 US Open Cup
* MLS-owned USL teams no longer eligible for 2016 US Open Cup, confirms USSF
* One is enough: NPSL champion New York Cosmos B withdraws from 2016 US Open Cup

#USOC2017 coverage:
* Find the #USOC2017 qualifying scoreboard on TheCup.us home page
* 2017 US Open Cup qualifying tournament set to begin Sept. 10 with 64 Open Division amateur teams
* Which NPSL teams will qualify for the 2017 US Open Cup?
* Which PDL teams will qualify for the 2017 US Open Cup?

More US Open Cup Final coverage
* FourFourTwo’s “Cup Tied” series
* FC Dallas, New England Revolution share trophy thirst entering U.S. Open Cup final
* USSoccer.com’s Open Cup coverage
* US Open Cup 101: Everything you need to know about the historic tournament
* Kei Kamara’s status for New England’s US Open Cup final up in the air
* Armchair Analyst: Revs have a shot vs. favorites Dallas in US Open Cup
* FC Dallas not worried about home loss just before hosting US Open Cup final
* Revs firing on all cylinders with win over New York City FC
* The story of the Dallas Burn, 1997 US Open Cup champions
* 2016 US Open Cup Final press conference
* Oral history of the New England Revolution’s 2007 US Open Cup title

Help the coverage on TheCup.us
* Support TheCup.us: New Del Rey City jerseys available for purchase
* Appreciate what we do at TheCup.us for last 13 years? Donate here
* TheCup.us is looking for writers/editors, graphics, WordPress gurus & people who can handle digital ad sales (paid position). Email us here

Twitter (#USOC2016) | Facebook | Instagram | Flickr | Reddit


New England Revolution Open Cup records
Overall: 17-11-5 (3-2 PKs) | Home: 11-4-3 (2-1 PKs) | Away: 5-7-2 (1-1 PKs) | vs. MLS: 5-7-1 (1-0 PKs)
Last entry: 2015 (Lost 1-0 in OT vs. Charlotte Independence of USL in Round 4)
Best finish: 2007 US Open Cup champions
Leading goalscorer (all-time): Taylor Twellman (7)
Leading goalscorer (2016): Teal Bunbury (3)


FC Dallas Open Cup records
Overall: 30-16-6 (5-1 PKs) | Home: 17-6-3 (2-1 PKs) | Away: 13-10-2 (2-0 PKs) | vs. MLS: 11-11-3 (2-1 PKs)
Last entry: 2015 (Lost 6-2 at Sporting KC of MLS in Round 5)
Best finish: 1997 US Open Cup champions
Leading goalscorer (all-time): Kenny Cooper & Abe Thompson (6)
Leading goalscorer (2016): Carlos Lizarazo (2)


WHY FC DALLAS WILL WIN

By Adam Uthe

(Why New England will win is down the page)

Four months ago the 103rd Lamar Hunt US Open Cup kicked off with a Modern Era (1995-present) record 92 participating teams.

Now we’re down to just two.

FC Dallas celebrate a goal against OKC Energy FC in Round 4 of the 2016 US Open Cup. Photo: OKC Energy
FC Dallas celebrate a goal against OKC Energy FC in Round 4 of the 2016 US Open Cup. Photo: OKC Energy

MLS leaders FC Dallas will host the New England Revolution on Tuesday night in front of a reportedly sold-out crowd at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas. Here are a few reasons why the Hoops will take home the trophy and could end up taking the first step to becoming the league’s first team to win three trophies in one season.

They’re The Best Team In MLS

Let’s start with the obvious: FC Dallas will win because they are the better team. In fact, they are the best team in MLS if you look at the standings. Despite a 1-0 loss to the Colorado Rapids on Saturday night, Dallas is currently five points ahead of Toronto FC and the Rapids for best record in MLS. Colorado does have two games in hand and Toronto has one, but if you’ve watched MLS all season you’d still feel comfortable declaring Dallas the best team. They’ve won the most games (15) and if you’re a fan of advanced stats, they’re averaging a league-best 1.76 points per game.

New England Isn’t Very Good

Ryan Hollingshead of FC Dallas races to the ball in a 2016 US Open Cup Semifinal match against the LA Galaxy. Photo: LA Galaxy
Ryan Hollingshead of FC Dallas races to the ball in a 2016 US Open Cup Semifinal match against the LA Galaxy. Photo: LA Galaxy

If you look at the Eastern half of the standings in MLS, you’ll find the New England Revolution fighting for their playoff lives with just 33 points from 29 games played. Their points-per-game currently sits at a meager 1.14 and their league-worst goal difference of -14 is actually five goals worse than the Chicago Fire and Columbus Crew, who are currently tied for fewest points in the overall league standings. They may be fighting for a playoff spot in the East, but in the overall league standings they’re just 14th out of 20. You could even make the argument that their toughest opponent was the New York Cosmos in Round 5 since the Cosmos have been one of the best, if not the best, team in the NASL. After that, they faced an average Philadelphia Union side and they were gifted the aforementioned Chicago Fire in the semifinals.

Balance And Depth

Unlike Toronto (Sebastian Giovinco) and Colorado (Jermaine Jones and Tim Howard), Dallas has been successful throughout this season without relying heavily on one or two players. Michael Barrios leads the team with eight goals in league play, followed by offseason acquisition Max Urruti with seven, and then Tesho Akindele with six. Midfield maestro Mauro Diaz, who typically creates first and leads the team with 11 assists, has gotten in on the action with five goals himself. Even with the departure of Colombian winger Fabian Castillo (fifth on the team with five goals and five assists), Dallas is creating goals from multiple positions.

The same has been true during their Open Cup run.

FC Dallas celebrate the game-winning goal in extra time stoppage time against the LA Galaxy in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas
FC Dallas celebrate the game-winning goal in extra time stoppage time against the LA Galaxy in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas

In Round 4 against OKC Energy they recalled Coy Craft left back from Oklahoma and he ended up providing the assist on both of Dallas’ goals, both scored by holding midfielder Carlos Lizarazo. Not to be outdone, Colin Bonner, also recalled from OKC to face them, scored the sixth and final penalty kick in the shootout to see the Hoops advance.

In Round 5 against Colorado it was Urruti’s turn as he scored the winner in extra time, with Mauro Diaz supplying the first goal in regulation. In the quarterfinals against Houston it was Castillo who stepped up and scored in stoppage time in the second half to help Dallas advance past their in-state rivals and into the semifinals. Against the LA Galaxy in the semifinals, Dallas needed extra time again (more on that trend in a moment) and it was center back Matt Hedges who scored first in the 116th minute before the unheralded Victor Ulloa score just seconds before the final whistle to send Dallas to the final.

So the team has scored six goals in four US Open Cup games and Dallas is looking to become the first team in the Modern Era (possibly of all-time) to win the tournament without having a single player who has scored more than one goal in the competition.

They’ve Faced Adversity In Every Round … And Won

As you might have noticed above, the road to this year’s final for Dallas hasn’t been easy. They needed a penalty shootout in Round 4 against USL side OKC Energy. In Round 5 they had to go to extra time against a very good Colorado team. The Quarterfinals were their only regulation win and that game would’ve gone to extra time as well if not for the heroics of Castillo. Then in the semifinals they needed two goals from the final five minutes of extra time to advance past Los Angeles.

Anything can happen in a cup final, but by most objective measures you’d have say that FC Dallas are the favorites the lift the trophy on Tuesday night.

FC Dallas’s Road To The Final

Round 4: 2-2 draw (6-5 PK win) vs. OKC Energy (USL)
Round 5: 2-1 OT win vs. Colorado Rapids (MLS)
Quarterfinals: 1-0 win at Houston Dynamo (MLS)
Semifinals: 2-1 OT win at LA Galaxy (MLS)

Texas teams in the US Open Cup Final (all-time)

1991: Richardson Rockets
1995: El Paso Patriots
1997: Dallas Burn (Champions)
2005: FC Dallas
2007: FC Dallas
2016: FC Dallas

The New England Revolution captured the club’s first-ever US Open Cup championship (and the first championship of any kind) with a 3-2 win over FC Dallas at Pizza Hut Park, a stadium where they had lost the last two MLS Cup championship games. Photo: Rick Yeatts
The New England Revolution captured the club’s first-ever US Open Cup championship (and the first championship of any kind) with a 3-2 win over FC Dallas at Pizza Hut Park. Photo: Rick Yeatts

WHY THE NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION WILL WIN

By Brian O’Connell

If there’s any indication the New England Revolution shouldn’t be overlooked in Tuesday’s US Open Cup Final, just cue the highlights from their most recent performances.

Instead of resting his starters in advance of the Final, Revolution coach Jay Heaps employed a first-choice XI, and they did well to show how dangerous they can be in Saturday’s 3-1 win over New York City FC.

The Revolution received scores from Juan Agudelo, Diego Fagundez, and Lee Nguyen, all of whom have benefited tremendously from the recent switch to a 4-4-2. But it isn’t just the goalscoring that’s made the eighth-place side a formidable foe for FC Dallas.

After the team sputtered along in a 4-2-3-1 that rarely served the attacking talents well, the move to the diamond midfield has given the likes of Fagundez, Nguyen amd Kelyn Rowe more opportunities to make the kind of short and quick passes that put Colorado’ top-ranked defense to the test in a 2-0 win on September 3.

The New England Revolution celebrate after a goal against the Philadelphia Union. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution
The New England Revolution celebrate after a goal against the Philadelphia Union. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution

The attack isn’t the only department that’s improved since the switch. The back four, which was much-maligned by mental mistakes and uncharacteristic miscues, has only conceded twice in their last four matches. With fewer gambles required from the fullbacks in the 4-4-2, Andrew Farrell and Chris Tierney have recommitted themselves to their defensive duties to frazzle opposing offenses.

Another development that’s made the Revolution a team to be reckoned with lately? The emergence of goalkeeper Brad Knighton. Bobby Shuttleworth’s ongoing struggles opened the door for Knighton, and the former backup has made the most of the opportunity. Since taking the reins, the veteran keeper has collected two clean sheets, and perhaps more importantly, provided stability to a back four that looked lost far too often prior to the switch at goalkeeper.

While some may call the Revolution’s recent form nothing more than a fluke – especially with the squad still operating below the playoff line in the Eastern Conference – it would be a mistake to simply hand the Lamar Hunt trophy to FC Dallas prematurely.

The New England Revolution celebrate after their PK shootout win over the Philadelphia Union. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution
The New England Revolution celebrate after their PK shootout win over the Philadelphia Union. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution

Yes, Dallas is in the midst of a remarkable season in which the word “treble” has been dropped on more than one occasion by many pundits. And yes, they may enter Tuesday’s final with fresher legs after coach Oscar Pareja rested many of his starters in Saturday’s loss to Colorado.

But the Revolution are playing with a full-tank of confidence as of late, and as we’ve seen all too often in tournament play, sometimes the edge belongs to the team playing with the full belief that it can’t be beat.

New England Revolution’s Road To The Final

Round 4: 1-0 OT win at Carolina RailHawks (NASL)
Round 5: 3-2 win at New York Cosmos (NASL)
Quarterfinals: 1-1 draw (4-2 PK win) vs. Philadelphia Union (MLS)
Semifinals: 3-1 win vs. Chicago Fire (MLS)

Massachusetts teams in the US Open Cup Final (all-time)

1916: Fall River Rovers
1917: Fall River Rovers (Champions)
1918: Fall River Rovers
1920: Fore River Rovers
1924: Fall River Marksmen (Champions)
1925: Shawsheen Indians (Champions)
1927: Fall River Marksmen (Champions)
1930: Fall River Marksmen (Champions)
1931: Fall River Marksmen (Champions)
1932: New Bedford Whalers (Champions)**
1946: Ponta Delgada
1947: Ponta Delgada (Champions)
1950: Ponta Delgada
1959: Fall River SC
2001: New England Revolution
2007: New England Revolution (Champions)
2016: New England Revolution

** Same club as Fall River Marksmen with different name/location

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup Final, FC Dallas/Dallas Burn, MLS, New England Revolution

2016 US Open Cup Semifinals: Mauro Diaz delivers comeback win for FC Dallas, earns TheCup.us Player of the Round

August 23, 2016 by Adam Uthe

Mauro Diaz of FC Dallas assisted on both extra time goals in the club's 2-1 come-from-behind win in the Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas
Mauro Diaz of FC Dallas assisted on both extra time goals in the club’s 2-1 come-from-behind win in the Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas

Set piece takers don’t always get the credit they deserve, but that wasn’t the case in the Semifinals of the 2016 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. FC Dallas midfielder Mauro Diaz earned TheCup.us Player Of The Round honors thanks to not one, but two well-taken corner kicks in extra time that found the heads of teammates. Those goals pushed the Hoops past the Los Angeles Galaxy, 2-1, and booked them a spot in the US Open Cup Final for the first time since 2007.

The award is voted on by the staff at TheCup.us and a select panel from the North American Soccer Reporters. Diaz was the clear winner, with Kei Kamara of the New England Revolution receiving strong consideration.

The FC Dallas midfielder also becomes the first player from Argentina to be named Player of the Round. Diaz is the fourth FC Dallas player to win the award, joining Kenny Cooper (2006), Abe Thompson (2008), and Blas Perez (2014).

After a hard-fought 90 minutes, neither team had managed to break through and extra time was needed to separate the MLS Western Conference foes. Giovani Dos Santos earned a penalty kick for Los Angeles in the 100th minute and Mike Magee converted from the spot to give their side the lead. FC Dallas pressed forward and Diaz served up pinpoint corner kicks in the 115th and one minute into stoppage time that found the heads of Matt Hedges and Victor Ulloa, respectively. The result itself was impressive enough, but Dallas also became the first away team to defeat the Galaxy in an Open Cup game since 2000.

FC Dallas celebrate the game-winning goal in extra time stoppage time against the LA Galaxy in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas
FC Dallas celebrate the game-winning goal in extra time stoppage time against the LA Galaxy in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas

Despite an injury-riddled start to his career in Dallas, Diaz is carrying on a long tradition of South American playmakers making waves in MLS. Unlike predecessors like Javier Morales (36), Diego Valeri (30), and former Columbus Crew star Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Diaz joined the club at a young age and looks set to play the entire prime of his career with the North Texas side.

While he looks to create for others first (he has 10 assists in MLS play this season), Diaz is also capable of finishing when needed.In the Fifth Round against the Colorado Rapids, he managed to poach the equalizer after teammate Fabian Castillo did all the heavy lifting, creating an excellent opportunity with a stunning solo run on the counter attack. Diaz has three goals to his name in MLS play so far this season as well.

The goal against Colorado gave him a total of two in his Open Cup career, the first coming in the 2014 Quarterfinal win against the Carolina RailHawks.

HIGHLIGHTS: FC DALLAS AT LA GALAXY (US OPEN CUP SEMIFINALS)

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup, FC Dallas, MLS, Player of the Round

2016 US Open Cup Final will have late kickoff on Sept. 13, will air on ESPN2, Univision Deportes

August 19, 2016 by Josh Hakala

A statue of the late Lamar Hunt on display outside of FC Dallas' Toyota Stadium in Frisco, TX. Photo: FC Dallas
A statue of the late Lamar Hunt on display outside of FC Dallas’ Toyota Stadium in Frisco, TX. Photo: FC Dallas

The Lamar Hunt US Open Cup has returned to the ESPN family of networks. The United States Soccer Federation announced the broadcast details, as well as the date and time for the 2016 US Open Cup Final on Friday morning.

The 103rd championship game between FC Dallas and the New England Revolution will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 13 at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and the Univision Deportes Network.

Kickoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET / 9 p.m. CT. A source tells TheCup.us, the late kickoff was a decision made by the network and not the teams.

This marks just the fourth time that the state of Texas has hosted a US Open Cup Final. The 1983 Final saw the New York Pancyprian Freedoms win its second straight title over Kutis SC in Houston. On a hot day in August in 1995, the El Paso Patriots were upset in front of their home crowd by amateur side Richmond Kickers of the USISL Premier. The last time the Open Cup Final was in the Lone Star State was when the New England Revolution beat FC Dallas 3-2 at Toyota Stadium in 2007.

This will be the third time that the Final will be broadcast live on an ESPN network. The first time came in 1999 when the Rochester Raging Rhinos of the A-League beat the Colorado Rapids on ESPN2. It would take until 2015 for the title game to return to ESPN2 when Sporting Kansas City edged the Philadelphia Union in penalty kicks last year.

Championship Match Broadcast Networks
(Modern Era, 1995-present)

2016 – ESPN2 / Univision Deportes
2015 – ESPN2 / Univision Deportes
2014 – GolTV
2013 – GolTV
2012 – GolTV
2011 – Fox Soccer Channel
2010 – Fox Soccer Channel
2009 – Fox Soccer Channel
2008 – Fox Soccer Channel
2007 – Fox Soccer Channel
2006 – Fox Soccer Channel
2005 – GolTV
2004 – GolTV
2003 – Fox Sports World
2002 – Fox Sports World
2001 – Fox Sports World
2000 – Fox Sports World
1999 – ESPN2
1998 – Fox Sports Net
1997 – Fox Sports Net
1996 – No broadcast
1995 – Prime network

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup, FC Dallas, MLS, New England Revolution

2016 US Open Cup Semifinals: FC Dallas’ two late OT goals stun LA Galaxy, send them back to the Final

August 10, 2016 by Dennis Pope

FC Dallas celebrate the game-winning goal in extra time stoppage time against the LA Galaxy in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas

 

FC Dallas celebrate the game-winning goal in extra time stoppage time against the LA Galaxy in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas
FC Dallas celebrate the game-winning goal in extra time stoppage time against the LA Galaxy in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: FC Dallas

Oscar Pareja knew his team had goals in them.

Trailing in the second overtime, FC Dallas scored twice after the 115th minute to defeat the Los Angeles Galaxy, 2-1, in overtime on Wednesday, Aug. 10, in a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup semifinal round game at the StubHub Center. For the Galaxy, it snapped a 17-game home winning streak in the tournament. Their last loss came in the 2000 Semifinals against the Chicago Fire.

“I could see that coming; Not just the second one but the first one, too,” Pareja said. “Our players were pushing, we were all heart there, and I thought the game rewarded them in the best way.”

Matt Hedges headed in a goal in the 116th minute, and Victor Ulloa tallied at the death for FC Dallas, which advances to play New England Revolution in the Open Cup Final in September.

“We’ve proved that this team is full of spirit. The boys are doing great stuff,” Pareja said. “They deserve to be in the final for sure.”

A rematch of the 2005 Open Cup Final, the Galaxy led 1-0 after a penalty kick by Mike Magee in the 10th minute over the first overtime, but both teams were slow to get started.

Alan Gordon, starting as L.A.’s only forward, had his shot on goal in the 17th minute stopped by Chris Seitz, and FC Dallas replied with a pair of shots that challenged Galaxy keeper Brian Rowe to make reactionary saves.

Ryan Hollingshead of FC Dallas races to the ball in a 2016 US Open Cup Semifinal match against the LA Galaxy. Photo: LA Galaxy
Ryan Hollingshead of FC Dallas races to the ball in a 2016 US Open Cup Semifinal match against the LA Galaxy. Photo: LA Galaxy

The visitors had the better of the play in the second half, but the Galaxy’s Baggio Husidic nearly won the game with a long-range effort in second-half stoppage time. However, his shot was a little high of the mark.

Neither team gave an inch during the start of the first overtime period, but Giovani Dos Santos was tripped in the area in the 100th minute, and Referee Ted Unkel saw enough contact to award the Galaxy a penalty.

Magee stepped up to take the spot kick, faked Seitz right and easily beat the keeper on his weak side.

L.A. did its best to defend into the closing minutes, but FC Dallas earned a corner kick five minutes from full time that Matt Hedges headed in for the late equalizer. It was Hedges second career Open Cup goal, the first coming in 2013.

Dallas got another corner in stoppage time, and Mauro Diaz placed another dangerous ball into the box to get his second assist as Victor Ulloa snuck in to score the game-winner.

“Certainly frustrating,” Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena said. “We did a terrible job, obviously, in the last five minutes of the game.”

For Dallas, it continues a string of dramatic victories in the tournament. They opened the tournament by getting taken to penalty kicks by the USL’s Oklahoma City Energy and followed that up with a 2-1 extra time win over the Colorado Rapids. In the Quarterfinals, they played their first road game, beating the Houston Dynamo 1-0 on a second half stoppage time winner by the recently departed Fabian Castillo.

Now, with the win, they will host the Revolution in the Final, just like they did in 2007. That year, the Revs won 3-2 to win their first major trophy.

NOTES:

* This was just the third US Open Cup match of the Modern Era (1995-present) to be decided on a goal scored in the 120th minute or later. The Atlanta Silverbacks (USL-1) avoided an upset by the PDL’s Carolina Dynamo with a 3-2 win in the 2004 Third Round. A year later, Chivas USA were nearly taken to penalty kicks by the Charlotte Eagles (USL-2), but scored in stoppage time to escape with a 3-2 victory.

* This was the 30th all-time US Open Cup win by FC Dallas, which moves them into fifth place in the Modern Era in victories behind the Chicago Fire (39), Rochester Rhinos (36), Seattle Sounders (35), and DC United (31).

* Dallas will be the sixth Texas-based club to reach the US Open Cup Final, and the fifth team from North Texas. Of those six teams to reach the Final, FC Dallas represents four of them (1997, 2005, 2007, 2016).

HIGHLIGHTS: FC DALLAS AT LA GALAXY

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup, FC Dallas, Los Angeles Galaxy, MLS

2016 US Open Cup Semifinals: Revolution overcome Fire to reach club’s third final

August 9, 2016 by Seth Macomber

The New England Revolution defeated the Chicago Fire 3-1 to advance to the club's third US Open Cup Final. Photo: New England Revolution
Je-Vaughn Watson celebrates his goal with New England Revolution fans in the Revs’ 3-1 win over the Chicago Fire in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution

The New England Revolution advanced to the 2016 US Open Cup Final after a 3-1 win over storied rival the Chicago Fire. Kei Kamara, Je-Vaughn Watson, Teal Bunbury each had a tally on an action-packed night at Gillette Stadium.

The game started quietly without much to speak of during the first 15 minutes. Things would change when referee Edvin Jurisevic pointed to the spot, ruling that Rodrigo Ramos had tripped Kelyn Rowe at the edge of the box. Kamara stepped up to take the kick, putting it past Matt Lampson to give his team a 1-0 lead.

“For sure it was an important moment of the game,” Fire head coach Veljko Paunović said. “For us, it was tough to receive that first goal too early. We have to be honest that we’re a young team and we commit too many innocent mistakes.”

The game opened up from there with both sides having solid looks on goal.

Kei Kamara of the New England Revolution celebrates after a goal against the Chicago Fire in the 2016 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution

First, Chris Tierney played a long ball that found Teal Bunbury on the right flank after a deflection from Kamara. Bunbury was unable to put his shot on frame.

The Fire’s response came moments later when John Goossens marched towards goal after Je-Vaughn Watson whiffed his clearance. The ensuing shot was on frame, but Brad Knighton was there to make the stop.

In the 28th minute, Kamara’s pace made a routine back pass interesting when he challenged Lampson. The oblivious goalkeeper’s clearance was blocked by Kamara, but the danger was adverted when the ball went out of bounds instead of going into the back of the net.

Kamara continued to cause the Fire headaches when he won possession in the 32nd minute. The striker then found Bunbury on the right flank but the winger once again failed to put his shot on target.

It was the Fire’s turn to attack in the 35th minute, but Jose Goncalves had consecutive slide tackles that neutralized the threat. The captain first denied an on-rushing Goossens before repeating the action against David Accam.

Accam would do better five minutes later when he grabbed his fifth goal of the tournament. The striker used creative footwork to deceive Watson. With space in front him, Accam hit a low shot to the left of Knighton. With the impressive goal, Accam moved into a tie for first place on the tournament’s goalscoring chart, tying him with La Maquina’s Edwin Borboa.

Watson got his redemption two minutes later when he nodded the ball over the goal line. The chance began with Tierney’s corner, which was won by Kamara. The ball would bounce off a Fire defender before reaching an eager Watson.

“We were talking earlier, me and Steve Neumann, and I said, ‘It’s Chicago, I scored on them last time, so, whatever, I’m going to go for it’,” Watson said. “Before I even tap it in the goal, I said, ‘Oh, my god. It’s a goal again’.”

The Revs had a good chance to add another two minutes later when Tierney identified Rowe on the right side. Rowe’s cross went across the goalmouth but Bunbury and Kamara couldn’t connect.
The Fire didn’t wait long to make an adjustment, as Brandon Vincent replaced Ramos at halftime. Despite the defensive change, the game reminded wide open.

In the 50th minute, Goossens took his third shot of the game but it did little to worry Knighton. The Fire tried again in the 55th minute but Michael de Leeuw failed to take advantage of Arturo Alvarez’s in-swinging cross. Things looked good for the Revs in the 62nd minute as Gershon Koffie put Kelyn Rowe in on goal. Feeling the pressure of the Fire defense, Rowe’s shot missed its mark.

The lull in the game was broken by Bunbury in the 85th minute, who found success with his third shot of the night. The 26-year-old hit a low-driving ball that was just out of Lampson’s reach.

“I think it’s huge,” Bunbury explained. “Chicago was putting some pressure on us. When it gets late into games like that you kind of sit back and hold onto a 2-1 lead, so to extend that and get that third goal was huge for us.”

Emotions boiled up in the 88th minute when Accam and Rowe got into a dispute at midfield. The dust-up resulted in a straight red for Accam and a yellow for Rowe.

Up a man and two goals, the Revs saw out the game to secure their first trip to the Open Cup Final since winning the tournament in 2007. The Revolution will play the winner of Wednesday night’s LA Galaxy-FC Dallas game.

FULL HIGHLIGHTS: REVOLUTION 3, FIRE 1

GOAL: KEI KAMARA (16′)

GOAL: DAVID ACCAM (40′)

GOAL: JE-VAUGHN WATSON (42′)

GOAL: TEAL BUNBURY (85′)

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup, Chicago Fire, MLS, New England Revolution

2016 US Open Cup Semifinals preview: Galaxy, Dallas seek to end title droughts with Revolution awaiting winner

August 9, 2016 by Seth Macomber

2016-usoc-logo-724-wideThe field for the 103rd Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is down to just four teams and all of them are former champions looking to break some Open Cup title droughts.

On Tuesday, the New England Revolution will host an Open Cup game at Gillette Stadium for just the second time when they welcome the Chicago Fire to Foxborough, Mass. Tomorrow night, the Galaxy will host FC Dallas in a rematch of the 2005 Final.

Both games will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and the Watch ESPN app.

Below, you will find links to our coverage on TheCup.us, as well as previews from both Semifinal games. You can get all the latest updates from every game through Twitter, using the hashtag #USOC2016. Use that same hashtag on Instagram to share your US Open Cup-related photos.

#USOC2016 coverage:
* 2016 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup schedule, results
* Complete 2016 US Open Cup bracket (TheCup.us)
* 2016 US Open Cup goalscoring leaders
* Which NPSL teams will qualify for the 2017 US Open Cup?
* Which PDL teams will qualify for the 2017 US Open Cup?
* Lletget wins TheCup.us Player of the Round | 2016 POTR winners
* 2016 Meet the Underdogs series
* Things you should know about the Semifinals of the US Open Cup
* 2016 US Open Cup Quarterfinals review
* USSF’s new US Open Cup qualifying tournament has challenges to address after year one
* Series of forfeits, teams with ineligible players overshadow 2016 US Open Cup
* MLS-owned USL teams no longer eligible for 2016 US Open Cup, confirms USSF
* One is enough: NPSL champion New York Cosmos B withdraws from 2016 US Open Cup

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* Appreciate what we do at TheCup.us? Donate here
* TheCup.us is looking for writers/editors, graphics, WordPress gurus & people who can handle digital ad sales (paid position). Email us here

Twitter (#USOC2016) | Facebook | Instagram | Flickr | Reddit

BROADCAST: ESPN2
If Los Angeles wins … they will host New England in the Final
If FC Dallas wins … they will host New England in the Final


FC Dallas Open Cup records
Overall: 29-16-6 (5-1 PKs) | Home: 17-6-3 (2-1 PKs) | Away: 12-10-2 (2-0 PKs) | vs. MLS: 10-11-3 (2-1 PKs)
Last entry: 2015 (Lost 6-2 at Sporting KC of MLS in Round 5)
Best finish: 1997 US Open Cup champions


Los Angeles Galaxy Open Cup records
Overall: 28-13-1 (1-0 PKs) | Home: 19-2-0 | Away: 9-11-1 (1-0 PKs) | vs. MLS: 12-9-1 (1-0 PKs)
Last entry: 2015 (Lost 1-0 at Real Salt Lake of MLS in Quarterfinals)
Best finish: 2001, 2005 US Open Cup champions


By Dennis Pope

Something has got to give.

The LA Galaxy celebrate a goal against the Seattle Sounders in the 2016 Quarterfinals. Photo: LA Galaxy
The LA Galaxy celebrate a goal against the Seattle Sounders in the 2016 Quarterfinals. Photo: LA Galaxy

FC Dallas is unbeaten in its last five games. Los Angeles Galaxy has taken points from each of its last 10.

The long-time MLS Western Conference foes match up Wednesday night at the StubHub Center in Carson (Calif.) in a Lamar Hunt US Open Cup semifinal round game.

Galaxy are still sweating from a 2-2 home draw on Sunday, Aug. 7, against the New York Red Bulls, scoring both goals in the final 10 minutes to earn a point in one of the most physical games of the season for both teams.

Robbie Keane’s nose was bloodied as the result of a violent collision with Red Bulls keeper Luis Robles midway through the first half, but returned straight away and later contributed to the build-up on both of L.A.’s goals.

FC Dallas celebrate a goal against OKC Energy FC in Round 4 of the 2016 US Open Cup. Photo: OKC Energy
FC Dallas celebrate a goal against OKC Energy FC in Round 4 of the 2016 US Open Cup. Photo: OKC Energy

Mike Magee got the Galaxy on the scoreboard in the 80th minute, finishing an assist from Steven Gerrard, and Ashley Cole scored his first goal for L.A. nine minutes later to equalize.

FC Dallas’ latest result – a 2-1 win over Real Esteli FC (Nicaragua) on Thursday, Aug. 4 – came in a CONCACAF Champions League group stage match.

Coach Oscar Pareja’s team has won four and drawn one since a 5-0 loss to Seattle Sounders on July 13, and has stayed atop MLS’ Western Conference table.

How FC Dallas adjusts to life without midfielder Fabian Castillo will be a major story line going forward. The talented Columbian, now with Trabzaonspor (Turkey), had five goals and five assists before his departure.

Both teams have had difficult paths to the Semifinals. The Galaxy needed extra time (and a controversial goal) to dispatch amateur Cinderella story La Maquina, 4-1. They followed that up with a narrow 1-0 road win over the Portland Timbers, followed by a 4-2 home win over the Seattle Sounders in the Quarterfinals. L.A. rallied to beat Seattle thanks to a pair of late goals from Sebastian Lletget, who earned TheCup.us Player of the Round for his efforts. The win over Seattle put the two-time Open Cup champs into the Semifinals for the first time since 2006.

LA Galaxy: 2005 US Open Cup champions
The last time the LA Galaxy faced FC Dallas in the US Open Cup, they beat them 1-0 in the 2005 Final. Photo: LA Galaxy

The only team that has more Semifinal appearances in the Modern Era than FC Dallas are the Chicago Fire. To get to their ninth final four, Dallas needed penalty kicks to eliminate the Oklahoma City Energy (USL), followed by a 2-1 extra time win over the Colorado Rapids. In the Quarterfinals, they had to travel down to Houston and escaped with a 1-0 win thanks to a late goal by the recently departed Castillo.

This will be the third all-time meeting between the clubs in the tournament. The first time they met, the Galaxy defeated the Dallas Burn 4-1 in the 2002 Semifinals at Titan Stadium on the campus of Cal State Fullerton. Carlos Ruiz scored the opener and then set up goals by Mauricio Cienfuegos and Cobi Jones to give L.A. a 3-0 halftime lead. Simon Elliott would add a late penalty kick to put the game away.

The last time they met was in the 2005 Final where a young striker named Herculez Gomez scored the lone goal in the first half as the Galaxy won their second Open Cup trophy, 1-0. The game was played at Home Depot Center (StubHub Center) in front of 10,000 fans, a smaller crowd due to a local ordinance limiting the attendance of midweek home games. With the victory, they became just the 10th Southern California team to win it all.

Wednesday, the two teams will square off for the third time to see who can put themselves in position to end their Open Cup title drought. The Galaxy last won in 2005, while Dallas hasn’t lifted the trophy since 1997.

BROADCAST: ESPN2
If Chicago wins … they will host winner of LA Galaxy / FC Dallas in Final
If New England wins … they will play at winner of LA Galaxy / FC Dallas in Final


New England Revolution Open Cup records
Overall: 16-11-5 (3-2 PKs) | Home: 10-4-3 (2-1 PKs) | Away: 5-7-2 (1-1 PKs) | vs. MLS: 4-7-1 (1-0 PKs)
Last entry: 2015 (Lost 1-0 vs. Charlotte Independence of USL in Round 4)
Best finish: 2007 US Open Cup champions


Chicago Fire Open Cup records
Overall: 39-13-4 (3-1 PKs) | Home: 25-1-2 (1-1 PKs) | Away: 13-12-1 (1-0 PKs) | vs. MLS: 21-8-1 (1-0 PKs)
Last entry: 2015 (Lost 1-0 at Philadelphia Union of MLS in Semifinals)
Best finish: 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006 US Open Cup champions


The last time the New England Revolution and the Chicago Fire met in the US Open Cup was in 2006. Photo: Chicago Fire
The last time the New England Revolution and the Chicago Fire met in the US Open Cup was in 2006. Photo: Chicago Fire

UPDATE: The New England Revolution defeated the Chicago Fire 3-1 to advance to the club’s third US Open Cup Final. They received goals from Kei Kamara, Je-Vaughn Watson and Teal Bunbury. David Accam scored his fifth goal of the tournament in the losing effort before getting sent off in the final minutes of the match.

Two teams desperate for a positive result will face off on Tuesday night when the New England Revolution host the Chicago Fire at Gillette Stadium in the Semifinals of 2016 US Open Cup.

In terms of league play, the Fire find themselves at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a record of 4-11-6 and a goal differential of -10. The Revs hold the sixth spot with a 6-9-8 record and a -11 goal differential. Both clubs are coming off multi-goal losses.

But things have been a little different in Open Cup play.

The Revs reached the Semifinals by edging out the Carolina RailHawks 1-0 and the New York Cosmos 3-2 before recording a shootout victory over the Philadelphia Union. While the Cosmos win was powered by known threats like Kei Kamara and Teal Bunbury, the two other victories came courtesy of young Zach Herivaux, jack-of-all-trades Je-Vaughn Watson, and backup goalkeeper Brad Knighton.

Chicago Fire celebrate a goal against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers in the 2016 US Open Cup Quarterfinals. Photo: Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire celebrate a goal against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers in the 2016 US Open Cup Quarterfinals. Photo: Chicago Fire

Meanwhile, the Fire advanced by collecting a shootout victory over the Indy Eleven, a 2-1 result over Columbus Crew SC, and a 3-0 home win over the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. The man behind all of these games has been David Accam, who has contributed four goals and one assist.

This Tuesday will mark the 74th overall meeting between the Revs and Fire. There’s no love lost between the two clubs, who have quite a storied history.

In the early 2000s, the Revs and Fire have regular meetings in the playoffs. The Fire proved victorious in 2000, 2003, 2008, and 2009, while the Revs owned 2002, 2005, 2006, and 2007.

The New England Revolution celebrate after their PK shootout win over the Philadelphia Union. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution
The New England Revolution celebrate after their PK shootout win over the Philadelphia Union. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution

The two clubs have also met twice in the US Open Cup, with Chicago advancing both times. In 2005, the Men in Red needed extra time to grab a 3-2 result in the Fourth Round thanks to a pair of goals from Andy Herron. One year later, it was Herron to the rescue again as he scored both goals in a 2-1 Quarterfinal win.

That said, the Revs do hold an advantage going into this most recent meeting, as they recently defeated the visiting Fire 1-0 thanks to a late Watson goal. Also worth noting is the fact that the Fire haven’t won a road game in 38 tries.

None of that could matter on Tuesday, however, as the Revs look to win their first Open Cup since 2007, while the Fire try to make history by winning the tournament for a fifth time, which would tie the all-time record (1998, 2000, 2003, and 2006).

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup, Chicago Fire, MLS, New England Revolution, Preview

2016 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Sebastian Lletget’s late heroics for LA Galaxy earn him TheCup.us Player of the Round

August 4, 2016 by Dennis Pope

Lletget becomes the first Galaxy player to win TheCup.us Player of the Round since Landon Donovan in 2006. Photo: LA Galaxy
Lletget becomes the first Galaxy player to win TheCup.us Player of the Round since Landon Donovan in 2006. Photo: LA Galaxy

Sebastian Lletget’s two late goals in a 4-2 victory over the Seattle Sounders earned the Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder TheCup.us Player of the Round honors for the Quarterfinals of the 2016 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

“This is the first time I can win something,” Lletget said. “I’m really excited.”

Lletget’s brace moves him into the competition for the tournament’s scoring title. His four goals in Los Angeles’ last two Open Cup games place him one goal behind Edwin Borboa of Santa Ana (Calif.) La Maquina FC (UPSL), a team the Galaxy eliminated in Round 4.

Lletget becomes just the second Galaxy player to ever win the award. The last came a decade ago when Landon Donovan scored a pair of overtime goals to eliminate the Colorado Rapids in the 2006 Quarterfinals.

The award is voted on by TheCup.is staff and a select panel from the North American Soccer Reporters.

Lletget edged Brad Knighton of the New England Revolution for the award, with the Chicago Fire’s David Accam also receiving strong consideration.

The former West Ham (EPL) academy starlet, Lletget is currently the Galaxy’s super sub coming off the bench. He started in the Quarterfinals against Seattle but did not find the scoresheet until the 85th minute when his one-touch finish from Baggio Husidic’s cross gave L.A. a 3-2 lead.

Following a deft one-two sequence with teammate Gyasi Zardes three minutes later, Lletget capped the Galaxy’s rally from a 2-0 deficit with his second goal.

He also scored twice late in the Galaxy’s 5-1 win over La Maquina in a Fourth Round game.

HIGHLIGHTS

LLETGET’S GOALS

Filed Under: US Open Cup Tagged With: 2016 US Open Cup, Los Angeles Galaxy, MLS, Player of the Round

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U.S. Open Cup History

1995 us open cup rewind graphic

1995 US Open Cup Rewind series: The Modern Era begins

The 30th anniversary of the 1995 Open Cup is upon us this year, and as we did with the inaugural tournament in 1913-1914, we’re going to take you back in time and relive the 1995 US Open Cup in chronological order, as it happened.

  • I-95 Quarterfinals: Best of New York-New Jersey vs. Philadelphia in US Open Cup history
  • 1995 US Open Cup Round 1: Richmond Kickers dominate shorthanded Spartans SC … again
  • 1995 US Open Cup Round 1: USASA orders replay for Richmond Kickers vs. Spartans SC match
  • 1995 US Open Cup Round 1: El Paso Patriots overcome early upset scare, beat 1989 USOC champs
  • 1995 US Open Cup Round 1: Day after a league game, Chico Rooks blank San Fernando Valley Golden Eagles

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