Complete U.S. Open Cup Coverage

Sacramento Republic FC

2026 US Open Cup Round 3: Minnesota United beat Sacramento Republic in near-record PK shootout

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Players from Minnesota United and Sacramento Republic watch as the ball misses the target in the Third Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC
Players from Minnesota United and Sacramento Republic watch as the ball misses the target in the Third Round of the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC

On Tuesday April 14, Minnesota United FC played the Sacramento Republic FC of the USL Championship at Heart Health Park in the Round of 32 of the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Kicking off in front of a crowd of more than 7,000 fans, the game would go scoreless for 120 minutes. After 24 penalty kicks and almost exactly 3 hours, Minnesota United of MLS advanced to the Round of 16.

The 12 rounds of penalty kicks is the second-longest shootout of the Modern Era.

The first half was fairly uneventful, with no goals scored despite a few solid looks from both teams. Minnesota controlled possession for the majority of the half, and after only one minute of extra time, the break arrived before much of the action. 

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The second half was not quite as quiet, with 2 yellow cards and a shot on goal seemingly every few minutes, but despite the offenses firing on all cylinders, the defenses held strong and the first 90 minutes went without a goal. 

“They sat deep, they were dangerous in a few counterattacking moments, they have some guys up front that have pace and power, and when they’re direct and in transition, they’re dangerous,” said Minnesota head coach Cameron Knowles on his team’s strengths. 

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Extra time saw an increase in pace and intensity from both teams, with 4 more yellow cards and 10 shot attempts, but despite numerous shots on goal throughout the 120 minutes of play, the stalemate persisted, and the game would go to penalties. 

The penalty shootout started with a Minnesota goal, the first of 4 consecutive goals leading to a  score of 2-2, which was then followed by 2 consecutive misses, both saves. After another goal from each team, Sacramento keeper Danny Vitiello would record his second save of the shootout, but Sacramento failed to capitalize on the opportunity, as the next shot hit the left post. Another 10 consecutive goals led to the goalkeeper’s turns. Alec Smir of Minnesota United missed high and right, and Vitiello’s attempt was saved by Smir. 

After both netminders missed, the shootout order started over as Joaquín Pereyra of Minnesota United would make his second penalty of the shootout, before Dominik Wanner of Sacramento missed right, ending the Republic’s tournament run.   

“We knew it was going to be difficult coming in and you want to get through to the next round, and that’s job done,” said Knowles. “Maybe not in the fashion or in the 90 minutes that we would have hoped, but, we’re on to the next round.”

2026 US Open Cup Round 2: Sacramento Republic conquer Valley 559 FC to advance

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Kyle Edwards (#71) of Sacramento Republic celebrates a goal with teammate Daniel Crisostomo in a Second Round game against Valley 559 FC in the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Recpublic FC
Kyle Edwards (#71) of Sacramento Republic celebrates a goal with teammate Daniel Crisostomo in a Second Round game against Valley 559 FC in the 2026 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Recpublic FC

On a rainy night in Clovis, California, Sacramento Republic FC secured its place in the Round of 32 of the 111th U.S. Open Cup with a commanding 4–0 victory over Valley 559 FC at Clovis East High School.

Sacramento controlled the match from the outset, dictating possession and tempo while consistently building through their attack. The breakthrough came in the 11th minute when Dominik Wanner delivered a dangerous ball back into the box, finding captain Lee Desmond, who powered home a header to open the scoring.

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Valley 559 showed brief signs of a response shortly after, as Jose Tovar rattled the post, but the opportunity failed to spark sustained momentum. Sacramento quickly reasserted control, showcasing their composure and attacking fluidity.

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The visitors doubled their lead in the first half following a well-worked sequence of possession. After building through multiple passes, Kyle Edwards found Wanner, who drove forward and finished clinically. Just minutes later, Edwards added a goal of his own, converting a precise cutback from debutant Brandon Cambridge to give Sacramento a 3–0 advantage heading into halftime.

Valley nearly pulled one back before the break after a costly backward pass created a golden opportunity. Lucas Ribeiro ran onto the loose ball as the goalkeeper rushed out to close him down. Ribeiro chipped his effort past the keeper, but Lee Desmond recovered in time to clear it off the line, preserving Sacramento’s clean sheet.

Sacramento continued its dominance in the second half, maintaining possession and limiting Valley’s chances. In the 64th minute, Wanner once again played a key role, threading a through ball to Edwards, who calmly finished to complete his brace and seal the 4–0 result.

Wanner delivered a standout performance with one goal and two assists, while Edwards notched his second brace of the tournament. Desmond not only opened the scoring but also preserved the clean sheet with his crucial goal-line clearance.

The match also marked an important night for Sacramento’s depth and development, with several players making their first-team debuts, including Brandon Cambridge, Sergio Rivas, and academy products Jackson Montero and Luke Strassburg.

With the win, Sacramento Republic FC continues its consistent run in the competition, advancing once again to the tournament’s next round while Valley 559 is left to regroup after struggling to convert early moments into meaningful momentum.

2025 US Open Cup Round 4: San Jose Earthquakes edge Sacramento Republic to avenge upset

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San Jose Earthquakes fans chant during the team's match vs. Sacramento Republic FC of the Fourth Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Abel Anguiano
San Jose Earthquakes fans chant during the team’s match vs. Sacramento Republic FC of the Fourth Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Abel Anguiano

Revenge was on the menu Wednesday night, and the San Jose Earthquakes served it ice cold. In a tightly contested US Open Cup Round of 32 clash, the Quakes earned a 2-1 victory over Sacramento Republic FC, avenging last year’s dramatic 4-3 loss in the Round of 16.

This time, San Jose flipped the script, leaning on experience, composure, and home-field advantage to eliminate one of the tournament’s most dangerous lower-division sides. With the win, the Earthquakes advance to the Round of 16, where they’ll host the Portland Timbers on May 20 or 21, continuing their push for silverware in 2025 under Bruce Arena.

The Quakes heavily rotated their squad, with Bruce Arena opting to rest Cristian Espinoza and Chicho Arango—leaving a combined 17 goal contributions in MLS on the bench. The club was looking to see which players could step up and help match last year’s US Open Cup run by reaching the Round of 16.

Arena addressed the media about the lineup decision, noting the need for rotation with a packed match schedule this month.

“There’s going to be some players that have to be rotated,” said Arena, who won the 1996 US Open Cup as manager of D.C. United. “Tonight helps guys get some minutes in. So if they get called on in the next three MLS games, hopefully they’ll be better prepared to contribute.”

San Jose Earthquakes fans also got their first extended look at the highly anticipated signing of Noel Buck. At the same time, squad regulars like Rodrigues returned to the XI despite falling out of favor under Arena.

It didn’t take long for the Quakes to make an impact. Within two minutes, they broke down Sacramento Republic’s backline as Amahl Pellegrino opened the scoring with a quick finish to give San Jose a 1-0 lead.

Pellegrino had additional chances to double the advantage early, but couldn’t convert as Sacramento regrouped and tightened defensively.

In the 44th minute, San Jose struck again, with a team goal of real quality. Niko Tsakiris delivered a highlight-worthy 360-degree turn and assist, setting up Preston Judd for the finish. Tsakiris was the clear standout of the first half, controlling the tempo and creating space with ease.

Tsakiris was asked after the match whether his spinning flick-on assist to Preston Judd was intentional: “Yeah, of course I saw him,.” he said with a laugh.

The Black and Blue nearly made it 3-0 before the break, but Pellegrino missed a sitter that could’ve sealed the game early. Even so, the Quakes dominated the opening half, showcasing the depth and quality that has been built under Arena.

The second half followed a similar pattern. San Jose continued to create chances but couldn’t find a third goal to put the match out of reach. Fans were also treated to the return of Hernán López, who made his first appearance since suffering an injury earlier in the season.

The match took a wild turn in stoppage time. Jamar Ricketts received a red card right before the end of regular time, and Sacramento’s Trevor Amann pulled one back in the sixth minute of stoppage time.

Despite the late drama, San Jose’s early dominance was enough to secure the win, but the former US Open Cup finalist managed to make things nervy with a late push at the end.

Many of the San Jose Earthquakes players who haven’t seen significant minutes in the MLS regular season stepped up in the win over Sacramento Republic. Niko Tsakiris impressed the home crowd and began to build chemistry with Hernán López in the second half.

Tsakiris had high praise for his returning Argentine teammate: “It’s great having him back. It’s another guy that we have going forward. With the quality that he has, we missed him.”

Amahl Pellegrino of San Jose Earthquakes attempts a shot against Sacramento Republic in the Fourth Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: ISI Photos
Amahl Pellegrino of San Jose Earthquakes attempts a shot against Sacramento Republic in the Fourth Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: ISI Photos

Even with the spectacular assist and a standout first half, Tsakiris was highly critical of his own performance.

“Tonight there were moments and opportunities that I felt were open for me and moments where I felt like I could have done better,” said Tsakiris. “That’s all part of it. Getting these minutes were valuable for me and for this year. (I’m) just looking to take this and move forward with it.”

The US youth international has appeared in just six matches this season under Bruce Arena, but this performance could put the 19-year-old back in the coach’s good graces. With the Gold Cup approaching, Tsakiris will aim to earn more minutes — and possibly make a case for a senior US national team call-up.

The Quakes will look to punch their ticket to the Quarterfinals with a win over the Portland Timbers—a team they recently defeated at home just one match before their US Open Cup victory over Sacramento Republic.

Now in the Round of 16, San Jose is just four wins away from capturing their first trophy under Bruce Arena and securing a spot in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. With depth players stepping up and momentum on their side, the Quakes have a clear opportunity to make a serious run at silverware.

2025 US Open Cup Round 3: Sacramento Republic ends El Farolito’s Cinderella run

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Sebastián Herrera of Sacramento Republic FC celebrates after scoring a goal against El Farolito SC in the Third Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC
Sebastián Herrera of Sacramento Republic FC celebrates after scoring a goal against El Farolito SC in the Third Round of the 2025 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC

In a Third Round battle of Northern California’s two most iconic Open Cup Cinderellas, one threw the other out of the ball, as USL Championship stalwarts Sacramento Republic brought NPSL adversaries El Farolito’s glory run to an end in a 1-0 home victory.

With Republic fans present in droves at Heart Health Park and El Farolito’s supporters punching above their weight in terms of noise, the bout quickly proved compelling. The Burrito Boys and the Indomitable Club battled back and forth from the jump, constantly launching attacks and counter-attacks, neither side letting the other control the ball for too long or showing any fear of playing direct. For a while, the only thing separating the sides was Sacramento’s ability to earn more setpieces than their San Franciscan counterparts.

Fortunately for the hosts, they had one other crucial advantage: the presence of team captain and Open Cup Modern Era assists leader Rodrigo López. In the 29th minute, that turned out to mean everything, as López launched a cross into the box for striker Sebastian Herrera, who headed it home to get both the all-important goal and the captain’s 12th career Open Cup assist. The amateurs soon got to work trying to mount a spot, and last year’s co-top goalscorer Dembor Benson came dangerously close in the 38th, but it ultimately remained 1-0 to the Republic at halftime.

As evening turned to night and the air continued to cool, the tension on the pitch only boiled hotter with each passing minute. The contest had already been somewhat chippy in the early going, but in the second half, it went to another level. Five different Burrito Boys and nine Indomitables picked up yellow cards by the end of the night, though not always at the times they were merited. For instance, Sacramento’s AJ Edwards drew a yellow card after a foul on El Farolito’s Jesús Martinez that Martinez had absolutely milked for all it was worth. Not long after, Edwards got away with blatantly shoving a Farolito player to the ground. Such was the nature of this contest as it teetered ever closer to getting out of control.

Of all the brewing dislikes in the stadium, none burned hotter than Jesús Martinez versus the home crowd—who, from his flop in the 61th onward, despised everything he did. When he started jawing with a subbed-off López and a member of the Republic’s coaching staff, it only added fuel to the fire. By the time Martinez landed knee-first on a downed Republic player, nearly sparking a brawl and ultimately earning his yellow card for arguing afterward, a red may not have satiated those who wanted his head.

Fortunately, the match still featured more productive outlets for the teams’ pent-up aggression. As the second half went on, Republic’s grip on the game felt tighter by the minute, and it helped that they gunned aggressively for another score seemingly every time they got a touch. Meanwhile, El Farolito kept playing determined soccer, preventing dagger after dagger to the point where a viewer trying to decipher who was leading from how the teams behaved might have concluded the Burrito Boys were a goal up instead of down.

However, despite a spark from Erik Arias once he came on as a substitute, the amateurs just couldn’t get the degree of attacking momentum that they needed. As the eighth of eight stoppage time minutes loomed, the Burrito Boys lined up for some last free kick, but once Sacramento snuffed it out, the clock struck midnight on El Farolito’s Cinderella run.

Few were happier for the win than Sacramento goalkeeper and fan-voted Man of the Match Jared Mazzola, who came up big with three saves in his first Open Cup start since 2023, when he was still playing for USL-1 side Greenville Triumph.

“It was an incredible experience,” Mazzola told reporters after the match. “Any time I get to play at Heart Health Park is amazing. I’m just blessed to wear the crest and blessed to have my name on the back of this shirt. It means so much to me and my family, so I’m really happy to be here.”

Also buzzing after the game was Rodrigo López—who, after tearing his ACL during Sacramento’s cupset over the San Jose Earthquakes last year, made a triumphant return to extend his assists record. In his own post-match comments, the Indomitables’ captain showed he wasn’t taking any of this for granted.

“To me, it feels good to win,” said López. “It’s been a long 11 months for me, and to be able to play today in front of my family, in front of the fans, and in front of the people who showed me a lot of love and support throughout these 11 months, for me to step on the field again, it’s just a blessing.”

With this win, the Republic have added yet another reason why Sacramento is such a dangerous place for Open Cup hopefuls to visit. The 2022 US Open Cup runners-up improved to 21-3-1 (1-0 PKs) all-time at home in tournament play, easily one of the best home records in American soccer. Now, the day’s Goliath set their eyes on playing David, as they prepare to take on an MLS side in the Round of 32 next month.

 

2024 US Open Cup Quarterfinals: Seattle Sounders end decade-long Semifinal drought with win over Sacramento Republic

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Jordan Morris and Albert Rusnák of the Seattle Sounders celebrate after scoring a goal against the Sacramento Republic in the Quarterfinals of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Seattle Sounders FC

Sacramento Republic FC played host to Seattle Sounders FC Tuesday night at Heart Health Park in the Quarterfinals of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Sacramento earned their way to the round of eight by upsetting the San Jose Earthquakes 4-3 in extra time, while the Sounders punched their ticket by way of a 2-1 win over Phoenix Rising FC.

Despite a valiant second half from Republic FC in front of their home fans, first half goals from Sounders midfielder Josh Atencio and forward Jordan Morris proved to be enough to lift the visitors to a 2-1 road victory. With the win, the four-time Open Cup champions earned their first trip to the Semifinals since 2014.

“The guys all fought, they stuck together and it was a hard game,” said Seattle Sounders FC manager Brian Schmetzer. “They scored a goal early in the second half that gave them life, and credit Mark {Briggs} and his group for never quitting. I was happy with the performance because {we} overcame some adversity. {We’re} coming together as a group and that wasn’t an easy game. USL teams’ levels are growing higher and higher as their league progresses.”

Sounders FC got on the board first, when in the 16th minute, Reed Baker-Whiting crossed a ball from the left side that appeared to initially to be headed away by the Republic, but it found Josh Atencio at the top of the box, whose volley ricocheted off a Republic defender and into the back of the net to give the visitors an early 1-0 advantage. 

“I was really eager to get out here today and put in a performance,” said Atencio. “We’re treating {the Open Cup} as a big deal, and it is. We knew we were going to have to get one early to give us momentum and also weather their storm, because we knew they were to come at us. So I felt it helped us {getting the early goal} from a mental standpoint knowing we had to play the rest of the game with that lead, and I think we did a good job.”

Republic would have their best chance in the first half when Cristian Parano’s left-footed shot just went wide of the far post following a courageous run up the left flank. 

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Sounders FC would double their lead in the 31st minute when Republic FC goalkeeper Danny Vitiello was caught too far out of the box following a tremendous through ball from Baker-Whiting. Morris collected the ball, made a clever move around Vitiello’s left and was able to tap it into a wide open net, making it 2-0.

Republic FC would pull one back in the 49th minute when halftime substitute Sebastian Herrera powerfully headed Jack Gurr’s corner kick to make it 2-1. The goal gave the home side and its fans some life and they continued to put pressure on Seattle for the remainder of the game. 

VItiello did his best to keep his team in the match, making a couple of incredible saves down the stretch to keep it at a goal deficit. Republic FC thought they had tied the match in the 87th minute, but forward Trevor Amann was ruled offside and the goal did not stand. In the end, Seattle grinded out an impressive road victory.

With the win, Seattle returns to the Semifinals of the Open Cup for the first time since 2014, when they last won the title. They are seeking to become the first team from the Modern Era (1995-present) to win five Open Cup titles. In the 109-year history of the tournament, only three times have ever lifted the trophy five times (Bethlehem Steel, Maccabee AC, Fall River Marksmen/New Bedford Whalers)

Seattle will host the winner of Los Angeles FC and New Mexico United, which kicks off Wednesday night at 11 p.m. ET.

Republic FC return to USL league play and can hold their heads high following yet another solid Open Cup run, with some memorable moments along the way.

2024 US Open Cup Round of 16: Kieran Phillips of Sacramento Republic voted TheCup.us Player of the Round

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Graphic by Phil Naegely

After bagging a brace and leading his squad to a “cupset” of the San Jose Earthquakes in the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Round of 16, Kieran Phillips of the Sacramento Republic FC has been voted as TheCup.us Player of the Round. 

The award is voted on by TheCup.us staff, a select panel of from the North American Soccer Reporters, and select backers from TheCup.us’ Patreon. Anyone interested in voting for this award in future rounds may consider pledging $10 or more and help us with our continuing coverage of the US Open Cup and research its storied history.

Atlanta United’s Josh Cohen finished second in the voting after posting a clean sheet and two saves during penalties as United got past Charleston Battery on the road. Indy Eleven’s Hunter Sulte was third with a clean sheet and seven saves in their 3-0 win over Detroit City FC.

Phillips, on loan from EFL Sky Bet Championships side Huddersfield Town AFC, secured a brace while starting and going 79 minutes in the extra-time triumph. The Huddersfield, England, native now has three goals in Open Cup action – the brace was his first as a member of Sacramento Republic.

He first drew Sacramento level in the 17th minute, putting the cap on a terrific move that saw the forward finish Luis Felipe’s cross from the left wing. Phillips followed that up in the 38th minute when he connected on Jack Gurr’s cross from the right wing for a right-footed finish.

The win pushed Sacramento Republic into the Quarterfinals for the second time in three years. Sacramento, one of three USL Championship sides still standing, will host Seattle Sounders FC on Tuesday, July 9.

2024 US Open Cup Round 5: Sacramento Republic strikes quickly in OT to complete comeback vs. San Jose Earthquakes

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Sacramento Republic players celebrate after scoring a goal against the San Jose Earthquakes in the Round of 16 of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC
Sacramento Republic players celebrate after scoring a goal against the San Jose Earthquakes in the Round of 16 of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC

Sacramento Republic FC played host to Major League Soccer’s San Jose Earthquakes Tuesday night in the Round of 16 of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup at Heart Health Park in front of a raucous crowd of 11,569. It was the fifth all-time meeting between the clubs with the Earthquakes holding a 3-1 match advantage. In the words of the beloved character Stefon from Saturday Night Live (Bill Hader), this match “had everything.”  

Behind a first half brace from Republic FC forward (and Huddersfield Town loanee) Kiernan Phillips and theatrics in the second period of extra time where the Republic got goals from Luis Felipe in the 106th minute (assisted by Rafael Jauregui) and Sebstian Herrera (assisted by Cristian Parano) in the 108th minute, the Quails held on for a 4-3 win and knocked the Earthquakes out of the Open Cup tournament for the second time in three years. The Earthquakes winless road streak in the Open Cup also pushed to 10 games, which is the most in the Modern Era (1995-present).

Sacramento now has eliminated six MLS teams in tournament play, which is tied for third of all of the lower division clubs of the Modern Era.  

“I thought the guys showed unbelievable heart, unbelievable character, and unbelievable resilience to come back in extra time after we conceded that third goal,” said Republic FC Manager Mark Briggs. “A lot of teams would have caved in, a lot of teams would have gone under, but they showed their grit and they showed heart and they showed the Indomitable Spirit at the end of the day. And we managed to come back into it. I thought Cristian Parano came in and was excellent, Sebastian Herrera came in and was excellent. And that’s the difference and that’s why we’re in the next round.”

The Earthquakes got on the board first in the 11th minute when forward Benji Kikanović made an unbelievable run up the left side, and his left footed cross found a wide open Preston Judd who calmly slotted it home to give the visitors an early 1-0 lead. 

That lead would last five minutes when in the 17th minute, Luis Felipe received a beautifully weighted ball from midfield from Trevor Amnan. He quickly dribbled up the left hand side, and his left footed cross found Republic forward Kieran Phillips to level the score at 1-1. 

Republic FC would strike again in the 38th minute when defender Jack Gurr played the ball up the right hand side, crossed the ball to Phillips, who had made a brilliant trailing run up the middle and hammered home his second goal of the half. With the goal, Phillips secured his first brace as a member of the Republic and third goal in two Open Cup matches, which ties him for second place in the 2024 tournament with Cal Jennings from the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

San Jose leveled the match in the 80th minute on a well-placed Christan Espinoza free kick.just outside the 18 yard box. After some dangerous chances for both sides in the final 10 minutes, they went to extra time tied 2-2. 

In the 100th minute, Hernan Lopez gave the Earthquakes a 3-2 lead on an assist from Jack Skahan, which seemed to be the end of the line for the Republic. That’s when things got wacky. 

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In the 106th minute, Felipe tied the score at 3-3, and two minutes later, it was Herrera scoring the go-ahead goal, which sent Heart Health Park into an absolute frenzy. The Republic were able to hold off a mounting attack from the Earthquakes over the next 12 minutes and punched their ticket to the next round with a dramatic 4-3 victory. The win also moved Republic FC’s all-time home record in the Open Cup to 20-2-1 (1-1 in penalty shootouts). 

“Once again, the team showed great resilience to get scored on, go again, score goals, get scored on again, “said Felipe. just a great team performance overall gives us confidence to move on in the tournament. Every time we have a game like this here at home, we feel great. The atmosphere is insane. I love playing for the city, for this club. It’s amazing.”

Republic FC will learn their opponent and hosting rights on May 22 at 10 p.m. ET on U.S. Soccer’s YouTube page. 

2024 US Open Cup Round 4: Danny Vitiello leads Sacramento Republic to shutout win over Monterey Bay

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Kieran Phillips of the Sacramento Republic celebrates after scoring a goal against Monterey Bay FC in the Fourth Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC
Kieran Phillips of the Sacramento Republic celebrates after scoring a goal against Monterey Bay FC in the Fourth Round of the 2024 US Open Cup. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC

Behind two first half goals spanning across just four minutes, Sacramento Republic FC advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Tuesday night with a 2-0 win over USL Championship rival Monterey Bay FC. Republic FC Manager Mark Briggs pushed his career winning percentage to .714 in the Open Cup, which is the third highest in the Modern Era (1995-present).

With the win, Republic FC move their all-time home record in the competition to 19-2-1 (1-1 in penalty shootouts) and will next host MLS side San Jose Earthquakes, who they knocked out of the tournament in 2022 as part of their historic run to the Open Cup Final.

The Quails broke through in the 27th minute when left back Dami Viader crossed in a ball from just outside the box on the left side, which was inadvertently deflected by Monterey Bay FC defender Kai Greene straight into the back of the net to make it 1-0.

Four minutes later (31st minute), Huddersfield Town loanee Kieran Phillips notched his third goal in four matches across all competitions on a lovely through ball from Rafa Jauregui, who earned his first career assist.

From that point on, Republic FC goalkeeper Danny Vitiello made a number of clearances and big saves (four total on the night), including right before halftime and in the 88th minute, denying Monterey Bay forward Tristan Trager from breaking up Vitiello’s clean sheet.

Listening to Briggs following the match, it’s clear Republic FC are once again prioritizing the Open Cup as much as USL play, and in turn, honoring the history of the tournament.

“I think I’m fortunate that I have a squad that allows us to compete on both fronts,” said Briggs.. But the Open Cup – look, we’ve got a special history with the Open Cup. Not just in 2022 but even before I was the coach. The club’s done extremely well in the Open Cup, so it’s competition that we respect and we want to do well in, and this year is no different. Now obviously we’re coming up against a San Jose team that we’ve faced many times in the past and it’ll be a really difficult night and a difficult game, but a great opportunity for our community, our city to show what Sacramento is all about.”

The match featured a number of new faces to the tournament, but none more exciting than 16 year-old Republic FC defender and academy standout Chibi Ukaegbu, who played in his first professional match after signing a contract last November. He learned last Friday that he was going to be in the XI on Tuesday. He was nervous, but absolutely ready.

“It felt great,” said Ukaegbu. “It’s something I’ve been training for for a long time, and to get this the opportunity felt great in front of all the fans.”

2023 US Open Cup Round 4: Colorado Rapids pulls away from Sacramento Republic to end “Curse of the Rhinos”

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Jonathan Lewis of the Colorado Rapids dribbles the ball against the Sacramento Republic FC in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Colorado Rapids
Jonathan Lewis of the Colorado Rapids dribbles the ball against the Sacramento Republic FC in the 2023 US Open Cup. Photo: Colorado Rapids

Under the lights of a cool spring evening, Sacramento Republic FC played host to Colorado Rapids in the Round of 32 of the 2023 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup at Heart Health Park.

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Behind early goals from Rapids forward Jonathan Lewis and Michael Edwards, Colorado held on to knock out last year’s Open Cup runner up 4-2 in an entertaining, back and forth match.

With the win, Colorado erased a seven-game road losing streak in Open Cup play as well as the infamous ‘Curse of the Rhinos.” Since the Rapids lost the 1999 US Open Cup Final to the Rochester Raging Rhinos, they had failed to win multiple games in 17 straight tournaments. Tuesday’s win is only their sixth road win in the competition across 21 tournaments, and despite getting past Republic FC, they still have a losing record against second division teams in the tournament (7-8-1, 0-1 PK) and hold the record among MLS teams who have been upset 11 times by a lower division side.

“Obviously, happy to advance,” said Colorado manager Robin Fraser. “As I’ve been saying all week, we certainly intend to take this tournament seriously, and we’ve talked a lot about mentality, we talked about what it’s like to play in an arena like this. And were every bit as good as I thought they would be. After giving up a couple of early goals, they really applied a lot of pressure late in the game. I was certainly pleased with how we handled it, and then obviously, to relinquish the lead, and then come back in and find two more goals to win it. I was really proud of the group for that. But as I said, the bottom line is we’re happy to have gotten through and advance to the next round.”

Jonathan Lewis opened the scoring for the Rapids in the 4th minute following a nice through ball from Daniel Leyva to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage. Eleven minutes later (15th minute), Rapids defender Michael Edwards slid under the Republic defense and headed in a corner from Alexander Gerbach to make it 2-0.

After the shock of going down two early goals, Republic FC were able to gain composure and work themselves back into the match. The effort would pay off in the 30th minute, when Sebastian Herrera pulled one back for the Quails on a beautiful cross from forward Keko Gontan on the right side capping off a solid build up of play.

Looking to level the match out of halftime, Republic FC got what they needed in the 52nd minute when Herrera got his brace after heading in a cross from defender Jack Gurr to send Heart Health Park into a frenzy. Unfortunately for the Republic, the excitement of fighting back to level at 2-2 would be short-lived.

Colorado regained the advantage in the 56th minute when substitute Sam Nicholson gathered the rebound following a blistering right-footed shot from Michael Barrios that hit the left post, ricocheted near the right post where Nicholson was crashing in. He calmly tapped it in to give the Rapids a 3-2 advantage.

The game would change when Republic defender Shane Wiedt picked up two yellow cards in a span of 90 seconds (61st and 62nd minute) and was sent off with 30 minutes left in the match. Down a man, Republic FC fought hard and continued to mount pressure and create chances, however, the game was put away in the 81st minute by Barrios off a cross from substitute Braian Galvan to make it 4-2, which is where the game would finish.

With the loss, Republic’s home unbeaten streak ends at 14 (second longest in the Modern Era). However, they still hold an impressive 18-2-1 (1-0 PK) home record in the Open Cup. For Colorado, Tuesday’s win means a trip to the Round of 16 and an opportunity to do something special in this tournament and change the direction of their history in the Open Cup. Lewis and his teammates are embracing the moment.

“If you tell somebody you can win a trophy in five or six games, then I think most people will take that,” said Rapids forward Jonathan Lewis. “You’ve got to win six games, so for us, it’s like that focus and that mentality right there to win or go home. And, you know, we have that in the back of our heads, and we know that this could be an opportunity, a tournament that we can actually win, so I think everybody’s just putting their head down. We know whoever we get next, again, it’s going to be just another game, but there’s going to be a lot more urgency in these games right now than even maybe an MLS game.”

2022 US Open Cup: Rodrigo Lopez of Sacramento Republic voted TheCup.us Player of the Tournament

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Graphic by Bradley Delmar (Twitter: @bradmarepublic)

Fresh off a tournament-best four goals and four assists, and a share of the tournament Golden Boot Award, Sacramento Republic FC midfielder Rodrigo Lopez earned a rare combination of awards for his performance in the 2022 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Lopez was the was not only voted TheCup.us Lower Division Player of the Tournament, but he was also voted the overall Player of the Tournament. Since a “lower division” award was added in 2012, he is the first player to sweep both awards. Lopez also becomes just the second player from a lower division team to win the overall Player of the Tournament award. He joins goalkeeper Chris Eylander, who earned the honor in 2008 with the then United Soccer League (USL) Seattle Sounders.

The Player of the Tournament awards are voted on by TheCup.us staff, a select panel from the North American Soccer Reporters and select backers (those that pledge $10 or more) of TheCup.us’ Patreon team.

Rodrigo Lopez (left) and goalkeeper Danny Vitiello celebrate after Lopez scored the game-winning penalty kick to give Sacramento Republic a 5-4 win over Sporting KC in the 2022 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC
Rodrigo Lopez (left) and goalkeeper Danny Vitiello celebrate after Lopez scored the game-winning penalty kick to give Sacramento Republic a 5-4 win over Sporting KC in the 2022 US Open Cup Semifinals. Photo: Sacramento Republic FC


Lopez was an absolute force during the tournament, propelling Republic FC to their first Open Cup Final where they would eventually lose 3-0 to Orlando City. Despite the loss, Republic FC were only the fourth non-MLS club to compete in a Final. During their run, the Quails knocked off MLS sides San Jose Earthquakes, LA Galaxy and Sporting Kansas City, in what was a thrilling penalty shootout that only rivals the Miracle at Bonney during the club’s inaugural season. From the Miracle at Bonney, to the 2022 Open Cup run, it was Lopez leading the way for the Republic.

“I am a little bit shocked to be honest … something that I wasn’t expecting especially after not winning the US Open Cup,” said Lopez when asked for his reaction to winning both awards. “(But) to be awarded this MVP brings a little joy to me and to the work I’ve put in throughout the season and obviously the work of my teammates, coaching staff and everyone involved with the Republic.”

This marks the second time, and the second tournament in a row that a player on a team that didn’t win the tournament won the Player of the Tournament award. In 2019, the tournament’s top scorer Darwin Quintero of Minnesota United FC won despite his team falling to Atlanta United FC in the Final.

Lopez’s contributions were felt widely across the tournament. In the Fifth Round (Round of 16), he scored a goal and tallied an assist en route to a 2-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. In the Quarterfinals against the LA Galaxy, Lopez scored an early goal that set the tone in a 2-1 victory. And in the Semifinals against Sporting Kansas City, he played 120 minutes and converted a penalty kick to send Republic FC to the Open Cup Final. He’s played this tournament many times before, but this year was different. It was apparent that Lopez, his teammates and the club were locked in.

“You may remember in the past we got knocked out by an amateur team, and I didn’t play that game and the coach made a lot of changes, I don’t think some of the players took it very serious,” said Lopez. “I really think Mark did a good job in the rotations and taking every game serious. We never underestimated any team. For Mark to play me in these games when I had been playing all the league games, it definitely showed me he wanted to win. I just really wanted to make a big run, and with the tone we had in our locker room and with the coaching staff and front office, I truly felt like we had a really good chance.”

Make no mistake about it, the Republic’s run in this year’s Open Cup galvanized the City of Sacramento, captivated soccer fans and media across the country and elevated the game. When Lopez was told about recent chatter on social media saying that when the Republic build their new downtown stadium, there should be a statue of him out front. That’s how much he means to the city and fans.

“It means a lot, but I don’t like to take full credit of the success this club has had or I’ve had,” said Lopez. “It’s all built around a team and I’ve been very lucky to play under great coaches and alongside amazing players, but once my son Roman was born, I definitely changed my mindset and the way I worked and the way that I acted as a professional and worked on the field every day. All the success and attention I am getting is based on the hard work, the struggles and me learning from early on in my career. I appreciate everyone who supports me and for the fans to praise me like that … it’s special.”

Father-Son Open Cup Connection

One of Lopez’s biggest fans watching this Open Cup from the stands or on television was his dad, Alvaro Lopez. He also competed in the tournament with San Nicolás FC out of Pomona in 1998. That team had to win a tournament in their zone and travel to Albuquerque for a regional tournament against teams across six states to qualify for the Open Cup.

Once they qualified, they had to travel to Austin, which proved to be complicated. The team flew out at 1 a.m., had to make a connecting flight, and eventually arrived at their hotel at 11 a.m. for a 5 p.m. kickoff. San Nicolás would eventually lose 2-1 to the Austin Lone Stars (USISL D-3 Pro League), with Alvaro starting and playing a full 90 minutes. Despite the challenges to qualify, he looks back on his experience fondly.

“It was very difficult to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup,” said Alvaro. “I remember that the team’s overall skill level was very good, which included college and players who had played professionally. We only had time for breakfast and rest before heading to the field at 3:30 p.m. That team in Austin would be considered to be at a USL Championship level today, but I believe we would have had a better result if we would have traveled the day before. But it was a very good experience.”

Whether it’s 1998 or 2022, qualifying or making a run in the Open Cup takes a lot out of players and teams. There is a tremendous amount of sacrifice, playing through injuries, heavy minutes with league play, mental toughness to push through and the expectation to play well and advance. Knowing Lopez faced and battled through all of this is something his dad understands and appreciates.

“He deserves a very good rating for his overall performance,” said Alvaro when taking about Lopez’s Open Cup play. “He satisfied all the expectations I had on him and the way he played this year. I believe that his experience, the way he takes care of his body and his willingness to give it his all for his team and the City of Sacramento all came together to keep him motivated.”

One of the Best Seasons Ever?

Without question, this was one of Lopez’s best years as a professional. While Republic FC fell just short in the Open Cup, nobody in Sacramento will soon forget their magical run.

“This has to rank in the top three of my career,” said Lopez. “I would say that first year winning the championship was one of them, making my dream come true to play in Mexico in the first division was the other, and this one is up there. I don’t know what order to be honest, but it definitely has to be in the top three.”

Hats off to Rodrigo Lopez – ambassador for the game, consummate professional, Sacramento Republic FC legend, and now, 2022 TheCup.us Player of the Tournament. I am sure fans look forward to watching him reach even new heights next season.

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