Complete U.S. Open Cup Coverage

Orange County SC

2026 US Open Cup Round 2: Vukovic’s OT header sends Phoenix Rising FC past Orange County SC

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Phoenix Rising FC celebrates after defeating Orange County SC 2-1 in the Second Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Phoenix Rising FC
Phoenix Rising FC celebrates after defeating Orange County SC 2-1 in the Second Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Phoenix Rising FC

Under a full moon at Championship Stadium, Phoenix Rising FC advanced to the Round of 32 in the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup with a 2-1 extra-time victory over Orange County SC on Wednesday night. Aleksandar Vukovic delivered the decisive header early in extra time after Ousmane Sylla’s late equalizer forced overtime in a physical second-round matchup defined by momentum swings, missed chances and late drama.

The game started with Orange County controlling the ball with such elegance that Phoenix could not get possession for a substantial enough amount of time to create an opportunity. Phoenix played aggressively, dealing nine fouls to OCSC and getting three yellow cards in return. Orange County on the other hand were a bit less aggressive but still committed a couple unnecessary fouls that led to Phoenix being able to hold some possession.

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In the late minutes of the half, Alexander Rando made a mistake leading to an easy goal for Gunnar Studdenhofft and a 1-0 lead. After that goal the momentum shifted Phoenix’s way with them having more opportunities in those seven minutes than they did in the entire half.

The second half followed a similar pattern. The half had many fouls and yellow cards, but OCSC broke through in the last 10 minutes to tie the match up with a spectacular sequence of skills from Ousmane Sylla.

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“There’s not many players that can do the things he does with the ball and have the confidence to go and dribble and drive through players and he scores a very good goal,” said coach Danny Stone.

The game went to extra time and in the first five minutes Phoenix Rising’s Vukovic scored an amazing header goal from a corner. It was his first career Open Cup goal.

After that, fatigue started to kick in for both teams which caused many gaps in the middle and both teams were able to exploit. In the dying minutes of the game, OCSC saw a couple of chances just go wide.

“I am very happy with the overall performance of the boys, but also the subs that made a huge difference,” said Coach Pa-Modou Kah of Phoenix Rising. “We are going to continue to be who we are and keep striding and fighting. It’s a great game for our players.

“They are seeking to go higher and now they get to play an MLS team and showcase what their abilities are and what they can do.”

Stone was still positive even after the loss for OCSC.

“I was really proud of the players for the effort, the way they fought, and competed in the game and I think probably we didn’t deserve to be the losing team in the game,” he said.

Phoenix Rising’s Eziah Ramirez was one of several teenagers on the field.

“I was a little nervous at first but, when I get here on the field all the nerves go away and I feel confident,” Ramirez said.

With the win, Phoenix advances beyond their opening round game for the fifth year in a row, however for Orange County SC, this is the third year in a row that they are one-and done.

The future is bright for both teams, but it will be Phoenix that will play at least one more match in this 111th Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. (UPDATE: Phoenix Rising will play at the San Jose Earthquakes in Round 3)

2026 US Open Cup Round 1: Orange County SC takes care of business, 3-0 vs. Laguna United

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Chris Hegardt of Orange County SC celebrates after scoring a goal against Laguna United in the First Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Orange County SC
Chris Hegardt of Orange County SC celebrates after scoring a goal against Laguna United in the First Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Orange County SC

Consistency and assertiveness were the key combination for Orange County SC’s 3-0 win over Laguna United FC in the first round of the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. 

“The intention and really, the sole goal tonight was to be in the next round. So we’ve achieved that … we’re happy with the outcome,” said Orange County SC head coach Danny Stone. 

Orange County SC started the first half with immense determination to be in the lead. They held most of the possession throughout the half and allowed Lauguna United FC very few moments to create offensive advances. 

As the energy continued to amp up on the field, Laguna United FC would find themselves earning a yellow card in the 22nd minute by Carter Blondolilllo. However, that would not affect their gameplay as they quickly regrouped for the next play. 

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“…you know these Cup games, they’re never as simple as people feel they should be. And credit to Laguna United, they played a good game tonight,” said Stone.

After several close attempts to take the lead, Orange County SC finally put themselves on top with a goal in the 25th minute by Stephen Kelly. A few plays later in the 28th minute, and multiple saves from the Laguna United keeper, a final rebound landed on the foot of Ryan Doghman, who secured a 2-0 lead.  

“It was nice to get my first goal of the season. Just tried to get in the box and from the back holding the ball and luckily got shot away,” said Kelly. 

Orange County SC would remain in possession of the ball for the duration of the first half. In addition, both teams would accumulate a fair share of fouls, but wouldn’t have much effect on them. 

However, no more goals would be made in the half; resulting in a score of 2-0 in favor of Orange County SC. 

As the second half commenced, Laguna United FC took the opportunity to maintain possession of the ball, but it was short-lived. The match would again fall into the hands of Orange County SC. 

Only in the 71st minute would Laguna United FC  have an attempt on goal, where the shot would skim the top of the net and out of the bounds. 

As the final minutes of the match ticked away, Orange County SC had a fourth opportunity to raise the score.

 A block, in the 86th minute, thet rebounds off Laguna United FC’s goalie rolls into position for an incoming Orange SC player. However, that play would be called offside. 

The final whistle would sound with Orange County SC advancing to the next round in this 3-0 victory.

“… the most important thing tonight was to be in the next round. But as far as how we carry through, we take the positives from it, as we always do. The clean sheet tonight is a good one. And to win a game is key. This is it,” said Stone.

2025 US Open Cup Round 3: AV ALTA FC earns PK win over Orange County in SoCal classic

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Alassane Maboumou of AV ALTA FC salutes the crowd at his club match against the Oakland Roots in the Third Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: AV ALTA FC
Alassane Maboumou of AV ALTA FC salutes the crowd at his club match against the Oakland Roots in the Third Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: AV ALTA FC

The match between AV ALTA FC and Orange County SC became an instant classic with drama throughout Tuesday night’s Third Round match in the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

After overcoming an early Orange County goal and taking the lead, AV ALTA saw the visitors score an 83rd minute equalizer to send the match into extra time tied at 2-2. The match would be decided by a penalty kick shootout where AV ALTA would bring Denzil Smith off the bench to replace starting goalkeeper Carlos Avilez. The gamble paid off as Smith made a save as the USL League One side advanced to the Fourth Round by the score of 4-2.

In the 13th minute, Orange County opened the scoring from a corner kick with a quick pass back to Ousmane Sylla who dribbled down the end line and drilled the ball above goalkeeper Carlos Avilez and into the roof of the net.

At the 25-minute mark, right back Miguel Pajaro slid and was hit in the head, which sidelined him. He would return to the match four minutes later with his head taped up.

In the second half, AV ALTA started asking questions of the OC defense, attacking the right side of the pitch. After a few corners the home team was able to get on the board from a header from Luca Mastrantonio in the 67th minute. The ball was curled in by Walmere Martinez and met the head of Mastrantonino inside the six-yard-box.

A few minutes later, ,AV ALTA would complete the comeback with a go-ahead goal from Emmanuel Alaribe. With the home crowd behind them, AV ALTA would find themselves on a run into the Orange County box. Mastrantonio would center the ball to Alaribe who managed to get a foot to the ball after it was deflected by a defender and he beat the keeper in the 75th minute.

Just as AV ALTA appeared to be in control of the game, OCSC snatched it back with the tying goal in the 83rd minute. Ousmane Sylla delivered a ball to the head of Mouhamadou War who tied the game. After a stalemate in extra time, the game will be decided in penalties.

AV ALTA would make the rare goalkeeper change just before the end of extra time but it wouldn’t pay off until the third round. After both teams scored their first two attempts, Orange County’s Kyle Scott had his attempt blocked by the subsitute goalkeeper, which brought the crowd to a frenzy. Sebastian Cruz would convert to put the home team up 3-2 and he signaled to the crowd to calm down. Moments later, Nico Benalcázar would send his attempt over the top right of the goal to give AV ALTA FC to seal the game with another goal. The captain, Miguel Pajaro, with his head still taped, calmly went to the spot and sunk the final penalty to send AV ALTA to the Fourth Round in the club’s inaugural Open Cup run.

After the game, AV ALTA FC head coach Brian Kleiban said his team is building to try to get better.

“Every game, being down we reacted and find ways to get the win,” said Kleiban, who was thankful to the strong fan support and the community in the Antelope Valley. “We are very excited to be playing MLS teams for this Cup.”

All 16 eligible teams from Major League Soccer will enter tournament next round. The draw for Round 4 is scheduled to take place on Thursday.

It was the third time advancing for the USL League One side with all three of those games being played at home in front of a vocal crowd at Lancaster Memorial Stadium in Lancaster, Calif.

“Keeping the momentum going at home with the fan support drives us to win,” said AV ALTA FC goalkeeper Carlos Avilez. “It definitely helped in this game.”

2024 US Open Cup Round 4: Loudoun United goes coast-to-coast, beats Orange County SC, 2-1

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Photo by Orange County SC

Loudoun United FC is into the Fifth Round of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for the first time in its history.

The-Red-and-White used a pair of finishes by forward Wesley Leggett and a second-half penalty save from goalkeeper Dane Jacomen to guide them to a 2-1 win over Orange County SC at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine, Calif.

“We made some very good saves,” Loudoun head coach Ryan Martin said. “Big clearances, big blocks — and those little moments win and lose games and our guys made enough big plays to win us the game.”

There wasn’t a bigger play than Jacomen’s save on Orange County defender Markus Nakkim from the spot which came during the game’s most eventful period that featured an OC equalizer, a Loudoun go-ahead goal, and a foul in the box within five minutes.

Orange County started the game on the front-foot and enjoyed most of the ball’s possession throughout the first 45 minutes.

OC head coach Morten Karlsen, though, said his team wasted 45 minutes by failing to create solid opportunities with the lion’s share of ball retention in the opponent’s attack.

Midway through the first half, OC’s ineffective offense allowed Loudoun’s counter-attack to land the first haymaker. 

Against the run of play, Leggett picked up a pass at the center circle from midfielder Kalil ElMedkhar before dashing beyond two defenders and reaching the inside of the box to curl his attempt beyond OC goalkeeper Colin Shutler’s reach.

The exceptional run and finish from Leggett put the visitors in front at halftime and forced Karlsen to reach into his bench and make two substitutions before the second half

The hosts found it difficult to pierce through the Loudoun backline and ended the half without a shot on goal.

“We want to be one of the best defensive teams in the league,” Martin said. “We showed it tonight that we’re on that path.”

Replaced at halftime for OC was former Major League Soccer striker Ethan Zubak who, according to Karlsen, was a “tactical sub, performance sub.”

Cameroonian striker Thomas Amang replaced the former LA Galaxy and Nashville SC frontman and the former needed just 17 minutes to get his team-leading fourth goal of the season and equalize.

Amang tapped home from close range after wingers Bryce Jamison and Christian Sorto connected from a cross to set up the game-tying goal.

Moments later, Leggett collected his second via a defensive mishap to extinguish any momentum gathered from Amang’s goal.

“The equalizer was well deserved,” Karlsen said. “Then on our way to build momentum, we give away a goal.

“I don’t think we did ourselves any favors today in terms of winning the game.”

Leggett took advantage of OC center backs Ashton Miles and Nakkim’s failure to clear a tame pass into the box which was met by the forward with aplomb before he set himself up to beat Shutler for the second time.

Ninety seconds later, the hosts had a road back into the game when Loudoun midfield substitute Florian Valot took down OC midfielder Cameron Dunbar in the box for a penalty kick.

Nakkim, who got his first start of the season after a spell on the injured list, stepped up and had his attempt to the left saved by Jacomen.

“I was locked in on the penalty taker,” Jacomen said about his mentality during Nakkim’s attempt. “Not really feeling much pressure in the situation, just trying to do my job and help us get three points.”

It’s the second time a saved penalty by Jacomen carried Loudoun United onto the next round in this tournament. The goalkeeper’s penalty shootout save in the visitor’s third round match lifted them beyond the Richmond Kickers.

Loudoun United will travel again in the Round of 16 which is set to take place on May 21 or 22 — the winner between Los Angeles FC and Las Vegas Lights FC on Wednesday will host the Virginians.

“The guys showed that they belonged,” Martin said. “Whoever we get, it’s an honor to play in this so we’ll just keep pushing forward.”

2023 US Open Cup Round 3: Portland Timbers overcome “hungry” Orange County SC to advance

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Tyler Clegg of the Portland Timbers scored a goal in his first team debut against Orange County SC in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Portland Timbers FC
Tyler Clegg of the Portland Timbers scored a goal in his first team debut against Orange County SC in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Portland Timbers FC

With both teams were coming off losses in regular season play, host Portland Timbers and Orange County SC were looking for a huge bounce back game to advance to the Fourth Round of the US Open Cup.

Portland received huge news and a boost for the encounter as Sebastián Blanco returned from injury and would play his first minutes for the club in 2023.

The welcomed news of Blanco’s return, along with Tyler Clegg’s clutch play, and Jaroslaw Niezgoda’s continued form led the Timbers to the 3-1 win. Orange County SC had their chances, but could not convert when it mattered most.

“US Open Cup. I missed it. It’s good to have it back. It’s good to be able to play these games,” said Timbers manager Gio Savarese. “This allows to give the chance to players like Caliskan, Clegg, Griffith, to get their minutes and to get the possibility to continue to grow.

“These games are always difficult because when you play teams like Orange County, they come so hungry. They want to prove. They have so much desire. The games get very complicated and difficult. There’s a lot of energy in the games and we saw today that it was a difficult game and very competitive.”

In the first ten minutes of the game, OCSC outshot Portland 3-0. The Timbers responded and kept the attack on the gas pedal the rest of the half. They had several short free kicks, but could not get a goal out of any of those chances. Portland kept the pressure on and kept the barrages kept coming. However, in the 37th minute, they were rewarded. Niezgoda found Marvin Loría at the top of the box, who calmly slotted it home past Cropper to put the home side up 1-0. Portland ended the half with the edge in shots, 7-6 and corners, 4-3.

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The Portland Timbers started the second half with a party as Clegg headed home a corner kick from a gorgeous cross from Bonilla. After having all of the majority of the chances and possession, the Timbers got sloppy in the 54th minute when Milan Iloski slotted home a shot past Sulte.

In the 62nd minute, Moreno headed home a ball that nearly crossed the line, but was saved at the last second by Cropper. In the 69th minute, Orange County continued to knock on the door and had multiple shots on goal that were saved by Hunter Sulte and his defenders.

Portland used their trademark counterattack to get multiple good looks shortly after, but could not find the finish. In the 89th minute, Orange County scored off a corner, but it was ruled off due to offsides. The comeback was taken away in the first minute of stoppage time when Cropper misplayed the high ball in the box and Nathan found a way to head to Niezgoda to put the finishing touches on the game. 

“I have to say thank you to the fans because we had a good crowd on a Wednesday, that’s very important. We have to respect this competition,” Savarese said. “This is the oldest competition in the United States. The fact that the fans came in; the fact that my players and the organization took this game very, very seriously – I’m very proud of what we achieved today… But at least for tonight, very content.

“So many positives. Jaro scored again. That’s a good thing. We saw guys that came in and contributed in a big way, so very content with that. Hunter started and played really well. A lot of good things.”

2023 US Open Cup Round 2: Orange County SC cruise past Capo FC, 5-0

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Players from Orange County SC and Capo FC battle for the ball in their match in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Orange County SC
Players from Orange County SC and Capo FC battle for the ball in their match in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Orange County SC

In a calm and collective manner Orange County SC placed themselves in the next round after defeating Capristrano FC, 5-0, in the Second Round of the 2023 US Open Cup. 

The beginning of the match showcased the intensity of the play that would unfold in the first half. Right off the bat Capo FC demonstrated their eagerness to be the first on the board with a smooth play in front of OCSC goalie in the sixth minute but with Capo FC’s Hevany Ramos’ shot ending in the keepers hand.
 

“I think that 92 (Ramos) was basically started the show in the last game for them. So we knew all about the guy,” head coach Richard Chaplow said. “We knew it was a danger man. I’m glad that Capo but they didn’t get the goal because it showed our guys what I was talking about in the builder that they’re a dangerous team.”

Just a few minutes later in the 13th, another close opportunity from Capo FC’s Hevany Ramos would end up in the keeper’s hands yet again; fueling the Capo FC to find a way to finish their plays.

However, that determination would leave Capo FC to collect three yellow cards with more than 20 minutes of play left.

“We knew that we knew there will be physical. I would say I thought Capo, you know, tried to try to do what they needed to do to win the game and I respect that,” said Chaplow. 

OCSC continued to play with calmness though each of their shots were deflected multiple times, but still pushed offensively and in the 33rd minute they raised the score. 

In a one and one run from the left corner into the goalie box, Orange County’s Emil Nielsen found a shot to the bottom corner of the net to give them the lead.
 


The following minutes after their first goal, OCSC would have conceded two more goals but in each event, there would be an offside call that would keep them at a 1-0 scoreline.

Orange County’s Bryce Jamison would put Capo FC in a deficit right at the end of the first half in the first minute of stoppage time after heading a free kick from Daniel Penderson to give them a 2-0 lead.

Returning in the second half, Capo FC didn’t lighten up their physical intensity on the field. In the 58th minute, this would disrupt Orange County’s calm demeanor of play as they would receive their first yellow card of the match in order to compete with Capo’s attack. 

By the 62nd minute, the intensity level on the field had reached its all-time high. A foul would be committed where it seemed an elbow was thrown between two players, but ultimately, Capo FC’s Sergio Montes would receive his second yellow card of the evening and would exit the field. Capo FC continued on with only 10 players. 

In the 69th minute, OCSC would lengthen the lead with a goal by Milan Iloski who was assisted by Alexander Villaneuva. However, that would not end their scoring ride, in the 87th minute, Thomas Amang would bring Orange County up to 4 -0. 

With the game dwindling down, three minutes were added to the end of the half, but a penalty kick by Iloski would seal Orange County’s spot in the next round. 

“I think we had a lot of momentum we were very clinical finishing wise and finish our chances,” said Ruiz. 

 

2022 US Open Cup Round 3: LAFC score five ‘beautiful goals’ in dominant win over Orange County SC

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Cal Jennings of LAFC celebrates his goal against Orange County SC with Latif Blessing and Carlos Vela in the Third Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: LAFC

Creating a large lead in the first half of the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup would place the Los Angeles Football Club in the next round after defeating Orange County Soccer Club, 5-1. 

“Yeah, one round, which was the objective tonight is happy with the goals we scored, the quality of the football, and the goals were excellent. Something we’ve been working on and wanting to improve, not just playing successfully, meaning giving around further getting three points in the league, but scoring beautiful goals,” LAFC head coach, Steve Cherundolo said. 

At the sound of the whistle, LAFC came onto the pitch full force and within the first minute had their first shot straight shot on goal. While that opporunity passed, the momentum for that moment did not lighten up. 

However, OCSC would return the same energy and a shot from almost mid-field would barely brush the fingers tips of LAFC goalie John McCarthy and go over the post thus losing OCSC’s closest opportunity to being first on the board. 

In the 13th minute, LAFC in its offensive push at the top of the box Danny Musovski would complete a pass from Jose Cifuentes and hit the lower far corner of the post that was just out of reach of the OCSC goalie’s hand. 

Following the goal, OCSC didn’t lose sight of its energy and was quick to try and make a turnaround. OCSC held off the LAFC offense for as long as they could and tried to create meaningful offensive strides. 

Yet, in a breakaway move during LAFC’s offensive advance a volley from Diego Palacios into the mid of the goalie box would find the foot of Cristian Arango and back into the net. 

By the 34th minute, the 2-0 score would be in LAFC’s favor. 

Now trailing behind, OCSC began to lose its formation just a bit and would continue to fend off the LAFC offense. 

In the final minute of the half, OCSC goalie, Patrick Rakovsky stepped to the side of the post to block a potential shot. However, Musovski saw the chance to pass the ball to his teammate Arango who had a clear shot of the unguarded side of the goal. 

Arango would gain his second goal of the night and lengthen the lead to 3-0. 

As the second half was underway, both teams entered the field with the same determination and aggression. It was evident that LAFC wanted to keep a clean slate but OCSC was eager to get at least one goal in. 

However, that heated play would only lead to a card being awarded during the play in the 55th minute. In a defensive move, LAFC Palacios would commit a foul that would give him the first and only yellow of the match. 

In a round of substitutions in the 63rd minute, LAFC Cal Jennings and Carlos Vela would be assets for the team. 

Just a few minutes later in the 68th minute, Jennings would be added to the list of scores after a pass from fellow teammate Franco Escobar led him to in front of the box, for a clean shot. 

“It was awesome. It’s something you know that when I signed here, I was dreaming about, you know, scoring in front of a crowd and the 3252 and it happened to me so I’ll take it. Whether it’s one in the six-yard box or outside the box, every goal counts,” Jennings said. 

LAFC would lead 4-0, but that would change again in the next few minutes. 

In the 71st minute, in another swift offensive push, off the right side of the field, Vela would make a short pass to the center of the goalie box where Musovski would claim his second goal of the night. 

With the lead now 5-0, OCSC still battled to at least get one goal and their efforts would finally be awarded in the 73rd minute. 

OCSC Erick Torres would find himself in front of the goalie and take a shot that was passed to him by his teammate Tommy McCabe and make the score 5-1. 

“We want to play our game and put the game on our terms. And every minute, that doesn’t always work out,” Cherundolo said. “But I’m not too concerned with the scoreline, we want to play our style of play and we’re trying to do that at every moment possible.”

The goal seemed to put a fire into the OCSC and put more pressure on LAFC’s defense. However, that would not be enough to even out the score. 

The match would conclude with a score of 5-1, in LAFC’s favor and eliminate OCSC from the competition. It was the most goals scored by LAFC in the club’s brief history that includes two previous Open Cup appearances.

LAFC’s next opponent in the U.S. Open Cup will be determined in the next drawing on Friday, but until then they return their focus back on their spring season. 

“In terms of who we play next. We’ll just have to wait and see the draw. I don’t think we’re thinking too much about it yet until we see who we’re playing and then we’ll do our preparation after that,” Musovski said. 

2022 US Open Cup Round 2, Day 1 Review: MLS Next Pro wins debut, one amateur side survives

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Toby Sims Pittsburgh Riverhounds Maryland Bobcats 2022 US Open Cup
Toby Sims of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds dribbles against the Maryland Bobcats in the Second Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Chris Cowger | Pittsburgh Riverhounds

The first MLS NEXT Pro team to enter the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup scored the league’s first win in the Second Round of the tournament, and USL League Two scored an upset over a nearby USL League One counterpart Tuesday night as 11 teams punched their tickets to the next round of the 107th edition of the US Open Cup. 

Round 2 continues Wednesday with 13 matches, with seven more to be decided Thursday. All of the games will be broadcast live on ESPN+ 

If you appreciate our coverage of the US Open Cup for the last (nearly) two decades, and want to see it grow in the future, consider joining our Patreon team by clicking above.

Several MLS clubs will join the competition in the Third Round, which will hold a draw Friday to determine the matchups. The draw is scheduled for 12 p.m. ET. 

Here’s a look at all 11 Second Round matches from Tuesday.

Click here for a preview of all the Round 2 games on Wednesday and Thursday

North Carolina Fusion U-23s (USL League Two) 4:2 Charlotte Independence (USL League One)
American Legion Memorial Stadium – Charlotte, NC
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

The North Carolina Fusion U23 pulled off the first upset of the second round, knocking off their professional USL League One opponent Charlotte Independence 4-2 in Charlotte.

Charlotte opened the scoring after 14 minutes when Shalom Dutey found the end of a Ayrton Paez free kick just in front of goal near the post, beating Fusion goalkeeper Josh Perryman. Twenty-three minutes later, a shot by Faisal Almabaslat was blocked by Charlotte goalkeeper Keegan Meyer, but Luis Neto was right there to put away the rebound to draw the Fusion level 1-1. It took Charlotte just five minutes to regain the lead, as Ivan Luquetta took the ball to the touch line in the penalty area, then passed back to Paez for the goal.

The Fusion tied things up minutes into the second half when Joao Silva took a shot at the top of the box that deflected off a Charlotte defender. Charlotte was reduced to 10 men in the 76th minute when Tresor Mbuyu was sent off for an altercation with a Fusion player after a hard tackle. With just a few minutes remaining in regulation, Charlotte goalkeeper Meyer fumbled an easy shot by Alexandre Horveno, and Tom Marriott scored on a wide-open goal. The Fusion cemented the upset in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Colton Sessoms easily scored on a 3-on-1 breakaway, the youngster’s fourth goal of the night, to book a spot in the third round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Maryland Bobcats (NISA) 0:2 Pittsburgh Riverhounds (USL Championship)
Highmark Stadium – Pittsburgh, PA
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

On a rainy Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh, the USL Championship Riverhounds entertained the visiting Maryland Bobcats of NISA. A pair of goals from Toby Sims on either side of halftime was all the Riverhounds needed to see off the Bobcats 2-0 and advance to the third round. Simms’ first goal came in the 38th minute from the center of the penalty area off a Luis Argudo assist. Almost 10 minutes into the second half, Simms tallied from the left side of the penalty area on a Mohamed Sesay assist. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

St. Louis CITY 2 (MLS NEXT Pro) 2:0 Indy Eleven (USL Championship)
Michael A. Carroll Track and Soccer Stadium (IUPUI) – Indianapolis, IN
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

St. Louis City 2 notched the first-ever Open Cup win for a MLS NEXT Pro team with a 2-0 victory over Indy Eleven of the USL Championship.

St. Louis drew first blood when Joshua Yaro sent an attempted clearance back into the box, where Era Armstrong collected the ball and beat Indy goalkeeper Tim Trilk. The reserve club of the future St. Louis MLS club doubled their lead in the 72nd minute when Armstrong passed to substitute Celio Martins, who then fed Wan Kuzain at the top of the box for the goal. From then on. Indy only managed a couple of chances on goal and the St. Louis reserves made their way to the third round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Michigan Stars FC (NISA) 0:3 Detroit City FC (USL Championship)
Keyworth Stadium – Hamtramck, MI
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

In a battle of former NISA rivals, the USL Championship Detroit City FC smoked the Michigan Stars 3-0 in Detroit.

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Support TheCup.us and its coverage of the US Open Cup by purchasing a “Champions” shirt, honoring the five clubs from the pre-Modern Era (1914-1994) to win four or more US Open Cup titles. Visit THECUP.US SHOP

Just as the first half looked to end scoreless, Detroit stuck twice on corner kicks. In the 45th minute, Connor Ruiz put away a Maximilliano Rodriguez corner kick. In the second minute of stoppage time, Rodriguez served up another corner, and this time Matthew Lewis headed the ball home for a 2-0 lead. For the rest of stoppage time, the air was filled with smoke from jubilant City supporters.

 

After a pair of crosses Detroit extended their lead to 3-0 in the 63rd minute. After Michigan headed away an initial cross, Michael Bryant sent the ball back into the box, where Connor Ruiz headed the ball to the feet of Matthew Lewis for his second goal of the game. From that point, Detroit easily saw out the remaining time to book their first ever appearance in the third round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

The Villages SC (USL League Two) 0:6 Tampa Bay Rowdies (USL Championship)
Al Lang Stadium – St. Petersburg, FL
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

The Villages SC of USL League Two were no match for the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the USL Championship, with the hosts steamrolling to a 6-0 win. Lucky Mkosana quickly put the Rowdies ahead 2-0 with two goals early in the first half. Jordan Scarlett pushed the lead to 3-0 on a header from a Jake Areman free kick. In the 53rd minute Mkosana appeared to have completed his hat-trick, connecting on a cross from Jake Areman, however the goal was later credited to Kyle Greig.

The goals continued to flow in as Jake LaCava (63rd minute) and Laurence Wyke (73rd minute) finished the rout of their amateur opponents, and confirmed a spot in the third round for the Rowdies. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Des Moines Menace (USL League Two) 1:2 Union Omaha (USL League One)
Morrison Stadium (Creighton Univ.) – Omaha, NE
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

The Menace opened the scoring in the 15th minute when a shot from Gabriel Rodriguez struck the crossbar and was swatted away by Omaha goalkeeper Rashid Nuhu. Corey Hertzog then slammed home the loose ball. Five minutes later, Union found the equalizer when John Scearce headed home a corner from Joseph Brito.

Union Omaha kept control most of the second half, and with nine minutes remaining, Omaha gained the lead on a Menace mistake when Alefu Bertini accidentally headed a lobbed pass from Conor Doyle past his own goaleeper. Omaha withstood a desperate Menace search for an equalizer to win their debut Open Cup match and advance to the third round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Tulsa Athletic (NPSL) 1:2 FC Tulsa (USL Championship)
ONEOK Field – Tulsa, OK
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

The USL Championship’s FC Tulsa came out on top in the Tulsa derby, defeating the NPSL’s Tulsa Athletic, 2-1.

FC Tulsa wasted no time grabbing the lead, as Jorge Corrales sent a cross into the box that Brian Brown managed to put away while being pulled down by a Tulsa Athletics defender. FC Tulsa scored again in the 19th minute, this time on a Ronald Rodriguez header off a corner kick from Joaquin Rivas. Tulsa Athletic had a few promising free kicks in the rest of the half but the score remained 2-0 at the break.

Despite being outshot by a wide margin, Tulsa Athletic managed to cut the lead in half with thirteen minutes remaining. Halftime substitute Billy Nzojyibwami’s goal from the right side of the penalty area gave the amateurs a glimmer of hope. But FC Tulsa kept the visitors at bay in the final minutes to book their place in the third round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

D’Feeters Kicks (USCS / The Roja League) 1:3 San Antonio FC (USL Championship)
Lynchburg City Stadium – Lynchburg, VA
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

For 45 minutes, the amateur D’Feeters Kicks had hope of an upset over the professional San Antonio FC of the USL Championship. However, in four quick minutes that dream was interrupted.

San Antonio scored three goals in four minutes of the second half to separate themselves from their amateur guests en route to a 3-1 win. In the 53rd minute, Henrik Sakshaug scored from the top of the penalty area after a free kick pinballed between players from both teams. Just a minute later, a shot by Justin Dhillon deflected off a D’Feeters defender, allowing Connor Maloney to easily beat goalkeeper Anthony Rodriguez for San Antonio’s second goal. Three minutes later, Sakshaug struck again from the center of the penalty area, assisted by Shannon Gomez, and suddenly San Antonio were comfortably ahead 3-0.

D’Feeters regained a slight glimmer of hope when San Antonio goalkeeper Matt Cardone was unable to handle a long shot from the left side, allowing Sebastian Mendez to easily tap home the goal. With seven minutes remaining, D’Feeters were reduced to 10 men when Juan Ramirez was shown his walking papers after a hard foul. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Las Vegas Legends FC (NPSL) 0:5 New Mexico United (USL Championship)
Univ. of New Mexico Soccer Complex – Albuquerque, NM
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

The NPSL’s Las Vegas Legends saw their luck run out in the second round as New Mexico United of the USL Championship rolled to an easy 5-0 victory.

The hosts set the tone in the seventh minute when Chris Wehan converted a penalty after Sergio Rivas was fouled by the Legends’ Hector Casillas. Jerome Kiesewetter scored the first of his two goals from close range in the 17th minute, and Randy Ovouka placed his shot in the bottom left corner of the goal five minutes from halftime for a 3-0 lead at the break.

Carl Sainte made it 4-0 from a shot outside the penalty area shortly after halftime. Eduardo Guzman was sent off in the 82nd minute, leaving Las Vegas with 10 men. New Mexico was awarded another penalty with four minutes remaining after another foul by Hector Casillas in the box. Kiesewetter stepped to take the penalty and New Mexico cruised to a berth in the third round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

El Paso Locomotive (USL Championship) 1:4 Central Valley Fuego (USL League One)
Lamonica Stadium (Clovis H.S.) – Clovis, CA
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Sean Walker

Villyan Bijev scored a brace, and USL League One side Central Valley Fuego stunned El Paso Locomotive of the USL Championships, 4-1 at Lamonica Stadium in Clovis, California.

Nathan Smith and Christian Chaney also scored for the Fuego, which needed less than five minutes to score and never looked back.

Bijev opened the scoring in just the fourth minute, chipping the goalkeeper from the left side of the box to put Central Valley up 1-0 mere moments into the game. The goals kept coming, too, through Smith’s golazo in the 15th minute and a second from Bijev in the 44th minute en route to a 3-0 halftime advantage. Chaney added a goal in the 62nd minute for the Fuego.

Eric Calvillo scored in the 90th minute for El Paso, which turned out to be the first Open Cup goal in Locomotive history for the 2019 debutants. El Paso was playing its second of three games in eight days after a four-match winless skid to open USL Championship play, and had traveled up the California coast following Sunday’s 3-2 loss to the San Diego Loyal in league play.  [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

LA Force FC (NISA) 2:5 Orange County SC (USL Championship)
Orange County Great Park (Championship Stadium) – Irvine, CA
BROADCAST: ESPN+

By Sean Walker

Former Real Salt Lake homegrown signing Milan Iloski had a goal and an assist as Orange County SC of the USL Championship rolled by the NISA’s LA Force, 5-2 at Championship Stadium in Irvine, California.

Daniel Pedersen, Sean Okoli, Mikko Kuningas and Kobi Henry each added a goal for Orange County, which converted five of its six shots on target into goals and out-shot the Force 22-15.

Samuel Goni scored a brace for LA Force FC, including a 37th-minute strike that pulled the Open Cup debutants within 3-1 at halftime. But Iloski dished a pinpoint backheel pass to Kuningas to restore Orange County’s three-goal lead, and Henry’s goal in the 69th minute helped seal the win for good.  [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

2022 US Open Cup Round 2: Orange County thumps LA Force in battle of Los Angeles

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Orange County SC 2022 US Open Cup
Players from Orange CountySC celebrate after scoring a goal in the club’s 5-2 home win over El Paso Locomotive in the Second Round of the 2022 US Open Cup. Photo: Orange County SC

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For the first time since 2017, Orange County SC advanced to the Third Round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.A goal in the 90th minute had no effect on the outcome of the 2022 US Open Cup Second Round match as Orange Country SC topped LA Force, 5-2 and advanced to the Round 3.

“Delighted to obviously be in the hat for the next round. I thought it was a professional performance. Disappointed, though, I think to not come away with a clean sheet,” said Orange County head coach Richard Chaplow. “We’ve conceded two in the end, but we put ourselves in a silly position at halftime going in conceding a sloppy goal. But overall, obviously, the game is about winning. And we did that.”

The first 10 minutes of the match kept a steady pace before OC SC and L.A. Force were able to create opportunities.

Both teams held a 50/50 possession with no attempts at goal. It was until the 12th minute when OC SC’s Sean Okoli took his first shot on goal, but the shot just barely skimmed the goal post and lost the opportunity to put his team on the board.

OCSC used that close opportunity as more motivation to gain the first goal and they succeeded. In the 24th minute,  OC SC Daniel Pederson saw his chance with a straight shot to the back of the net and took the lead, 1-0.

Just six minutes later in the 30th minute, OC SC Milan Iloski was able to read the direction of the play that L.A. Force goalie Brandon H. Gomez was about to make causing hesitation and loss of the ball.

Iloski reacted to it quickly and raised the score to 2-0.

“My dad always told me growing up to read it through their eyes. So I know when I saw the ball go back to him and the center back open up. I saw his eyes look where the guy was and I was able to meet it and cut off the path,” Iloski said.

With OC SC in the lead, L.A. Force slowly lost their shape in the backfield and another minor mistake in the defense left another open chance for OC SC to capitalize.  Reading the movement of the ball OC SC’s Okoli was able to get a light touch on the ball as it moved past the defender and directed it to the net.

OC SC led 3-0, with plenty of time left in the first half.

Now that L.A. Force was trailing far behind, the team increased their pressure on OC SC’s offensive which resulted in L.A. Force, Kyle O’Brien receiving the first yellow card of the match.

The yellow card riled up both teams, but L.A. Force used that energy to gain their first goal in the half in the 36th minute. Samuel Goni had a straight shot from within the goalie box that shifted the score to 3-1.

OCSC was left a bit frazzled following the goal and lost sight of their formation for a few minutes, but was able to adjust right at the end of the first half.

Returning for the second half, OCSC was able to recuperate from the goal they had given up prior and regained their composure.

“We’re leading three zero and then they got the goal on our mistake and felt like it was the only way they could get back into the game was on our mistakes,” Pederson said. “So we just talked about to be a little bit better on the ball and take care of the ball. Don’t lose it in bad situations.”

However, that would cease when a foul in the 50th minute in the OC SC goalie box put one of its players in an unsafe situation. Immediately after the foul, players reacted to that situation in a minor scuffle as tension rose while they waited for officials to make a decision on the outcome of the play.

Both L.A. Force Jaime Chavez and OC SC goalie Patrick Rakovsky were awarded yellow cards once it settled.

“That happens in football. So of course, you know, it’s a little bit heated,” Pederson said. “I think it was a bad foul. I think it was dangerous and I think that should have been penalized a little bit harder than if I fall in the midfield because something bad could really happen there.”

It was a pivotal moment for both teams as aggression increased on the field. Yet, it would not phase OC SC as they continued to hold their formation and move offensively with one another.

Just three minutes after the commotion, in the 53rd minute, Mikko Kuningas would contribute to OC SC’s lead after clearing the ball right in front of the goalie line.

A 4-1 lead in the second half, allowed for fresh players to take the field. From the 62nd to the 66th minute, OC SC used all five of its substitutions which held positive effects for the remainder of the game.

Seven minutes after being substituted in, OC SC’s Kobe Henry added his name to the scoring list in the 68th minute after his shot brushed between the goalie’s hand and the top of the net.

OCSC would lead 5-1 with less than 20 minutes in the match.

The remaining time of the match would mirror much like the end of the first half. Emotions and intensity rose higher and OC SC would once again slowly feel the offensive push from L.A. Force; losing their formation.

In the final minute of the match, L.A. Force Clayton Torr would complete an assist from Jose Villareal during the moment OC SC would lose its structure. Yet, the score would remain in OC SC’s favor, 5-2.

OCSC will now move to the fourth round and learn who their next competitor is on Friday, April 8th.

Until then the team will focus on areas that Chaplow saw during the match that needed improvement not only for the next round but for their spring season.

“I think first and foremost being a little bit more defense defensively sound, you know, having a bit of a better defensive structure,” Chaplow said. “Naturally the players are excited, they want to go and score goals. So there’s probably, you know, focusing on having a little bit more control in those moments. That’s all that matters.”

 

2019 US Open Cup Round 2: In battle of Orange County, the Football Club upsets the Soccer Club in PKs

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Orange County FC celebrates after their 2019 US Open Cup Second Round match against Orange County SC. OCFC won 5-3 in PKs after a 2-2 draw to become just the 5th NPSL team to upset a pro team. Photo: Glenn Feingerts
Orange County FC celebrates after their 2019 US Open Cup Second Round match against Orange County SC. OCFC won 5-3 in PKs after a 2-2 draw to become just the 5th NPSL team to upset a pro team. Photo: Glenn Feingerts

In the inaugural “Is it soccer or football?” derby, Orange County Football Club of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) eliminated Orange County Soccer Club in a penalty kick shootout to advance to the Third Round of the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

Orange County SC, a professional side competing in the USL Championship, seemed to be on their way with a Third Round date with the Las Vegas Lights. OCSC had a 2-1 lead heading into second half stoppage time but a Ryan Holland goal two minutes into stoppage time sent the game into extra time.

After a scoreless 30 minutes of extra time, Orange County FC goalkeeper David Preys capped off an exceptional performance with a save in the opening round of the penalty kick shootout. That stop would prove to be crucial as OCFC would convert all five of their attempts to punch their ticket to Round 3 for the first time in club history.

OCFC manager and former US international Paul Caligiuri was over the moon about his team’s performance.

“We conceded an unfortunate goal in the first half but we were able to come back and tie it,” said Caligiuri. “The fans enjoyed it and the players never gave up. Then we went down 2-1 late in the game and we tie it 2-2. It think it shows a lot of character of what we stand for … we showed the will, drive, and the never-say-die attitude and it paid off today.”

At the start of the first half, OCSC controlled much of the play. They were composed on the ball and the away side struggled to get it.

The OCSC struck first in the 14th minute as OCFC centerback Joshua Davis headed it into his own goal.

OCSC still controlled the match after the goal, but OCFC started to find their footing by disrupting play in midfield. OCFC would get the equalizer in the 28th minute against the run of play as Aaron Cervantes was forced to make a save on a 2-on-1 situation, but forward Dakota Collins hit home the rebound.

OCSC had two good chances to re-take the lead, but OCFC keeper David Preys was up to the task. He denied forward Jerry van Wolfgang from six yards out and parried away a shot outside of the 18-yard box.

OCSC made an offensive change bringing on Harry Forrester for Charlie Adams at the start of halftime. The English international would make his presence felt moments later as he forced Preys into another brilliant save in the 48th minute.

OCSC then put Brazilian upstart Vinicius on to add more attacking options, subbing off Danny Chrisostomo.

Van Wolfgang put in a threatening cross and midfielder Aodhan Quinn hit his shot just wide of the far post. He also forced a deflection in the 72nd minute.

The “SC” appeared to take the lead off of a corner kick, but it was ruled offside.

The away side, “FC”, were hanging onto dear life as Darwin Jones had a shot cleared off of the line in the 75th minute. Jones then missed an open goal chance as he shot it over the bar. Moments later, in the 85th minute, Jones broke the deadlock as he chipped it over Preys to make it 2-1.

But there was a sudden twist to the tale.

Near the end of second half stoppage time, OCFC forward Ryan Holland tied it up with a header in the box to make it 2-2.

The score would stay the same at full time.

In extra time, both teams gave each other no quarter as they fought for the go-ahead goal.

OCSC had majority of the chances as few shots were close to the goal line, but were caught or cleared off of the line.

The match went to penalties.

OCSC’s Aodhan Quinn had his team’s opening penalty kick saved by Preys and that proved to be the difference as OCFC converted all of their attempts to advance.

In addition to the deciding save, Preys put together a man of the match level performance by making eight saves in the game.

“ is without a doubt our MVP of the last two games,” said Caligiuri. “He was the hero versus Golden State Force and tonight, he’s the hero again. He was a huge pickup for us and we are very fortunate to have him.”

For Caligiuri, he is looking forward to leading his team against his former teammate in Eric Wynalda, head coach of the Las Vegas Lights.

“Eric is a competitor,” said Galigiuri. “He was a phenomenal player and a wonderful coach and we know what it means to these guys and what it means to the Las Vegas Lights.”t

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