US Open Cup Qualifying

As many professional leagues in the United States enter playoff time another knockout tournament is underway. The 108th edition of the US Open Cup and its second qualifying round continued last weekend. It featured amateur competition for multiple leagues and associations from the Open Division of the United States Soccer Pyramid.

The 7th edition of the US Open Cup Qualifying Tournament saw 36 matches played across the country. For 37 teams this was their first match in the competition this year after receiving a bye last round. While many returning names moved, including an astounding nine teams from last year’s tournament proper, a few notable ones crashed out in upset losses. Teams such as FC Denver and Christos FC, which have made their names in previous tournaments, were eliminated this round.

The winners from this round move on to next month’s third qualifying games. Those will take place between November 19-20,

SATURDAY October 15

Oyster Bay United FC (UPSL)
4:1
Queensboro FC II (UPSL)
Queens College Varsity Soccer Field; Flushing, NY

By Dave Einhorn

Oyster Bay United cruised past Queensboro II FC into Round 3 of the 2023 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Oyster Bay United defeated Queensboro II FC at Queens College by a score of 4-1 on Saturday morning. The tie was a rematch of the United Premier Soccer League American Division Final played this past spring, where it was Queensboro II who took the spoils. Like that match, Queensboro jumped out front within ten minutes, taking an early 1-0 lead from an own goal.

Queensboro looked to settle the game with their lead but could not contain Oyster Bay United. Mathew Carriel scored a brilliant equalizer from the left-side edge of the box in the 14th minute. Duga Dambelly gave Oyster Bay the lead in the 32nd minute after he slotted home a through ball from midfield past the keeper. The 2-1 score at halftime suggested it was anyone’s game.

After the second-half whistle, Oyster Bay talisman Junior Rosero scored his team’s third goal, putting more pressure on Queensboro II FC to respond. Both teams traded fouls, free kicks, and corner-kick opportunities. Oyster Bay cemented their victory with a fourth goal from Sebastian Ruiz in the 61st minute. The full-time score: Oyster Bay United 4 and Queensboro II FC 1.

There were different emotions at the end of the game. Queensboro II FC coach Diego Gomez talked about mental strength in his team: “We need to keep believing and keep playing and try to hardship. In the second half, we were not able to play at our level. Meanwhile,

Oyster Bay United coach Josue Esqueche looks towards the next round: “We’re not where we want to be yet, but we’re on the right track. If we continue like this, we will accomplish the same goal we had last season, the main rounds .

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South Carolina United Heat (UPSL)
4:0
TCSA (UPSL)
Paul Thigpen Chevrolet; Vidalia, GA

By Forrest Wimbley

On a sunny day in Vidalia, Georgia, the South Carolina Heat steamrolled TCSA in the second qualifying round by a 4-0 score.

The visitors from South Carolina began the scoring in the 7th minute with a skillful chip over the TCSA keeper by Alejo Binaghi. The Heat turned up the temperature when Mitch Backer scored a second goal from a long cross in the 31st made, making it 2-0. The visitors continued their domination in the 43rd minute, with Rodane McKenzie cleaning up a second ball from a free kick. SC United was in cruise control with a 3-0 halftime lead. An 82nd minute goal from McKenzie put the game to bed once and for all.

The Heat are attempting to qualify for the US Open Cup for the first time. Last year, they advanced to the final round only to forfeit the “Win & You’re In” match.

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Kalonji Pro-Profile (UPSL)
5:1
FC Birmingham (UPSL)
Pleasant Grove Soccer Complex; Pleasant Grove, AL

By Kaylor Hodges

On a sunny 85-degree Saturday in Pleasant Grove, Ala., Kalonji Pro-Profile made the 190-mile drive from Lawrenceville, Ga. Kalonji Pro-Profile came out in their traditional 4-2-3-1 and bagged their goal early from former professional Junior Sandoval in the 5th minute. FC Birmingham, playing the 3-3-3-1, looked a step behind from the bounce.

In the 17th minute, a controversial moment as Kalonji Pro-Profile scored after not one, but two goal line clearances off of the crossbar, Frantz Rooby Dalusma doubled the visitors’ lead, despite the pleading of offsides from the home fans.

Midway through the first half, an impromptu hydration break was called as all the balls were lost in the woods surrounding the pitch. At least ten minutes were lost as players entered the thicket to attempt to find at least one game ball. Immediately on the restart, Finn Dowdey gets a yellow card brandished for studs to the shin. Five minutes later, another yellow card was given out to FC Birmingham. As the first half moved on, Kalonji-Pro Profile moved to an extremely aggressive 3-4-2-1 that looked more like a 3-2-5 in attack. In the dying minutes of the half, Dalumsa gets his first half brace on a rocket from 25 yards out, despite FC Birmingham’s keeper Cosmas Uzoaru getting a solid paw on the ball.

To start the second half, Cosmas Uzoaru gets three massive saves to keep his Falcons Squad in the match and raise his save total to 8 through the 50th minute. In the 55th minute, Anthony Sumo Jr. got on the end of a pass at the top of the box to beat the Frenchman in net to put Kalonji Pro-Profile up 4-0. In the 77the minute, FC Birmingham grabbed a goal back thanks to Finn Dowdey on their first shot on goal in the match. In the 84th, Kalonji Pro-Profile’s Kofi Twumasi put the boys in red up 5-1 after a rebound goal. This would be the final goal of the game as the victors move on to their next round of the US Open Cup.

BROADCAST

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Metro Louisville FC (UPSL)
1:0
Valhalla FC (Ohio Valley Premier League / USCS)
Charity J. Lucas Multi-Purpose Athletic Complex; Milford, OH

By Brandon Gee

Metro Louisville traveled to Milford, Ohio, with only 11 players, to take on Valhalla FC and finished victorious, 1-0.

The lone goal was scored by Alejandro Trejo in the 28th minute after an errant clearance by Valhalla goalkeeper, Ian McNamara. McNamara’s kick landed right at the feet of the approaching Trejo who chested it down, took one step and chipped a left-footed ball over McNamara’s head into the upper 90.

https://twitter.com/MetroLouFC/status/1581406599825932289?s=20&t=VUclRXRJdDkucUuKiqyI5Q

Metro Louisville, who are attempting to qualify for the first time in club history, now awaits word of their opponent in the third qualifying round to be held Nov. 19-20.

BROADCAST

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FC Denver (Colorado Super League / USASA)
1:4
Azteca FC (Colorado Super League / USASA)
Dick’s Sporting Goods Park; Commerce City, CO

By Matt Pollard

Azteca FC won a heated rivalry match with FC Denver on Saturday afternoon to advance to the third round of US Open Cup Qualifying.

Azteca came out the better side, with Denver’s defense bending but not breaking. However, Cesar Castillo found Juan Torres on a run in behind in the 20th minute. Torres went bottom far corner to give Denver the 1-0 lead. 

Nine minutes later, Azteca equalized. Off a throw in, Denver goalkeeper Drew Johnson bobbled the ball. Brice Colcombe pounced on it and buried it with his first touch.

Denver was better to start the second half. They were sharper on the ball and had good sequences in transition. The game turned against them however in the 53rd minute. Azteca got on a break with Jovany Herrera taken down from behind by Carlos Castro in the box. A penalty was called and Castro was given a straight red. Herrera converted the penalty easily, making it 2-1

Castillo found center back Brian Roddy set pieces but could not convert as Denver tried to battle back. There were shouts for a penalty in the 64th when Liam Creedon was taken down by
Azteca defender Jose Bencomo, but the cross was out of reach

The game was put away in stoppage time. Saul Garcia scored on a breakaway in the 88th minute. Azteca won a second penalty minutes later with Bencomo converting. The match ended 4-1

“We came out flat. The red card was harsh. slows down, has no choice but to run into his back. That changed the game. From there, failed to execute down a man. We gave them too much space in midfield. It’s execution and composure. We didn’t have that,” FC Denver Head Coach Andy Goellner told thecup.us post game.

“It’s the highlight of the year. Everyone of us is competing to play with the big boys. You’re playing the best teams. It’s always fun,” Goellner added sentimentally when asked about the significance of the competition. 

 
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Boston Street FC (UPSL)
0:1
Brockton FC United (Bay State Soccer League / USASA)
Rocky Marciano Stadium; Brockton, MA

By Liz McQuikin (Recap used with permission from Mass-Soccer.org)

Brockton FC hosted Boston Street FC in the second round of US Soccer’s Lamar Hunt Open Cup Qualifying Round. The drama in this game started before kickoff when Boston Street Soccer questioned whether the Marciano Stadium turf met the Open Cup’s minimum standard of 65 yards in width. After several measurements by field officials, it was determined that the field was one yard too narrow.

Before declaring a Brockton forfeit, USSF gave Brockton FC until 7 p.m. for their field to meet the minimum standards. Brockton supporters were able to obtain field chalk from a local hardware store and the team and fans banded together to re-line the field.  Finishing at 6:59pm, with just a minute before the deadline, the game was saved and the fans would get to see their teams play.  This round would have a winner determined on the pitch after all!

Boston Street came out strong.  They demonstrated good speed, quick passes, and pressure in their attacking third. Early on, they forced a few mistakes from the Brockton defensive line and created some opportunities off corners.  Brockton adjusted to the tenacious Boston Street pressure and began to create counter opportunities.

In the twenty fourth minute, Brockton was awarded a PK on a foul in the box. Boston Street goalie and captain, PJ Mundis, made a fantastic save as seen here: PK Save

The game remained scoreless through halftime.  In the sixty-fourth minute, Brockton was able to convert a set piece served by #8 “Geo” Alves and finished by #21 Antonio Correira as seen here:  Brockton Goal

After Brockton’s goal, there were a few more opportunities by Brockton including this cross by #20 Elizandro Cardosa to an attempted bicycle kick by #11 Nilton Texixeira Andrade: Brockton Late Game Opportunity. The game remained 1-0 to the final whistle and the Brockton keeper, Benvindo Barros, turned in a clean sheet.

Fans and supporters were glad this game was played because both teams turned in solid performances and represented their clubs well.

Brockton FC will move on to the third qualifying round of the Open Cup.

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Houston FC (National Soccer League / USSSA)
2:3
D10 Lions FC (National Soccer League / USSSA)
Matias Almeyda Training Center; Houston, TX

By John Raycroft

D10 Lions FC won a heated matchup against Houston FC 3-2 to advance to the next round of qualifying. The D10 Lions got a goal in the 10th Minute from David Perez, to get out to an early lead. The Lions had control of the midfield from the start and dominated possession early on. They continued to pressure Houston FC for the first quarter hour until the second goal from Perez in the 26th Minute.

Houston FC seemed to calm down after the second goal and started to push back against the Lions leading to a goal in the 36th Minute from Michel Anthony Luster. Some late first half attacks and free kicks poised no threat to either side as the half ended 2-to-1 with the D10 Lions in the lead. 

The second half opened with fireworks as the D10 Lions goalie got called for a handball and tackle outside of the box which led to a red card and a free kick for Houston FC. The Lions had to replace their goalie as a result, and Houston FC capitalized on the opportunity to level it with a goal from Mahmoud Adawin. The intensity rose as the second half continued including multiple yellow cards for D10 coaches.

A red card for violent play for the Lions’ Axel Cabrin, led to Houston FC having a two man advantage for an extended period. The game would get more and more physical as play continued resulting in a red card for Houston’s Jesus Herrera Vargas. As the sun was dropping low in the sky and visibility decreasing by the minute, contingency plans were made to ensure lighting would be available in case the game went to extra time. The D10 Lions managed to grab a late goal to take a 3-2 lead that they would hold onto until the end of the game. The game ended up with more than 10 minutes of stoppage time due to red cards, goals, and injuries throughout the second half. D10 Lions escaped a very physical, back and forth game while down multiple players at one point to secure their advancement.

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Santa Cruz FC (UPSL)
L:W (Forfeit)
Unations FC (UPSL)
Fore Kicks II; Marlborough, MA

Santa Cruz were forced to forfeit this contest due to player unavailability, which means Unations advance to the third qualifying round which is scheduled for Nov. 19-20. Unations’ previous tournament resume includes being one-and-done in both 2018 and 2022 qualifying. This will be the farthest they’ve ever reached, all while never playing a single game.

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Gainesville City FC (UPSL)
1:2
Florida Premier FC (UPSL)
GSports Clubhouse Field; Trinity, FL

Florida Premier FC hosted fellow United Premier Soccer League side Gainesville City FC on a clear and mild night of US Open Cup qualifying action. The home side came out in control and drew first blood in the 10th minute off a lovely curling shot to the upper right corner. Heading into the latter end of the first half, Gainesville began to generate chances, mainly through their striker Dorian Jackson. Though Premier controlled the majority of possession, the visiting side would make occasional forays into FPFC’s third, including a penalty shout when a Gainesville City player was taken down just inside the box

As passions flared on both sides, and especially the visiting bench, Florida Premier was able to take advantage of the chaos to add a second goal in first half stoppage time. Left back Stewart Vigh found himself alone in the middle of City’s 18 and one-timed a shot toward the bottom left of the goal. Gainesville’s goalkeeper got a palm on the ball, but not enough to keep it out.

The second half began much the same as the first, with Florida Premier maintaining control of the tempo and Gainesville City’s manager’s protestations eventually earning him a yellow card in the 56th minute. Both teams began making substitutions around the hour mark, and play opened up on both ends. The Gainesville keeper was able to smother a barrage of shots from Premier and was once bailed out by a heroic goal line clearance from one of his defenders. 

With less than ten minutes left in the match, the visitors were able to turn up the pace. The hard work of Dorian Jackson paid off in the 88th as he controlled a cross with his chest and turned to volley in a laser of a shot, giving a spark of hope to the orange-clad away side. The late goal turned out to be too little too late as Premier steadied themselves and saw out the remaining short stoppage time period to claim a well-earned victory and move on in qualification. 

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Club de Lyon (NISA Nation / USASA)
3:1
Orlando FC Wolves (Central Florida Soccer League / USASA)
Econ Soccer Complex; Orlando, FL

Patrick Sandidge scored in the 5th minute to open the scoring for Orlando FC Wolves, who made their US Open Cup debut last year. But the game would turn around with Club de Lyon scoring three unanswered goals to advance to Round 3. 

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Germantown City FC (UPSL)
0:6
Nova FC (Eastern Premier Soccer League)
Virginia Revolution Sportsplex; Leesburg, VA

By Liam Wolfe

Northern Virginia Football Club (NoVa FC) was able to comfortably take down Germantown City 6-0 on a crisp fall night off the back of a KJ Nadeau hat-trick.

It did not take long for the defending EPSL champions and Amateur Cup runners up to get on the scoreboard as in the 13th minute it would be Vagner Marques who’d get on the end of a Alton “POP” West cross and get the home side an early lead.

Germantown City struggled all night with giveaways in the middle of the pitch and NoVa would capitalize on one of those mistakes in the 30th minute after Marques would make a fantastic run past three Germantown defenders before laying it off to Nadeau who had a simple finish to the bottom left of the net.

NoVa’s third and Nadeau’s second would come right on the edge of halftime as Jhonny De Souza would take a free kick quickly and was able to find the head of Nadeau who directed it over the Germantown keeper Aboubacarr Sinera to add to their lead.

NoVa would make it 4-0 in the 50th minute after substitute JP Ayolmbong would perfectly slip in his pass to beat the offside trap and into the path of Marques would dribble around the goalie and get his third goal contribution of the day.

Nadeau was able to finish off his hat trick and it might’ve been the easiest goal of his career after Pierre Richard would send a looping cross to the back post and it appeared the keeper misread the passes trajectory as he would run beyond the ball and leaving Nadeau with a free header into a empty net in the 64th minute,

NoVa really did leave the best of last as their sixth goal of the night was simply jaw-dropping. After it appeared that NoVa’s Will Zarco was in on goal it’d be a last ditch challenge only a few inches outside the box. Up stepped the center back Frankie DiOrio for the free-kick, the defender would fire off an absolute rocket of the shot into the very top left corner and stamp of a very impressive NoVa FC win. 

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D’Feeters Kicks Soccer Club (UPSL)
3:2
Alamo City Soccer Club (UPSL)
Alamo Sportsplex; San Antonio, TX

Sebastian Mendez was the difference, scoring a hat trick to lead D’Feeters Kicks SC to a 3-2 road win over Alamo City SC. Mendez scored two goals in the first half and each time he scored, Alamo would answer with a goal of their own. Mendez would complete his hat trick in the second half to send the Kicks into Round 3.

D’Feeters are seeking to qualify for the US Open Cup for the second year in a row after punching their ticket in their first-ever attempt last season.

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Beaman United FC (UPSL)
3:1
Bowling Green FC (UPSL)
The Pit (Bowling Green Junior High); Bowling Green, KY

By Federico Pravettoni

On a chilly Saturday night at The Pit, the Golden Lions fell short to Beaman United FC from Nashville by a score of 3-1.

From the first minutes of the match, Beaman started strong and took control of the game with great spells of possession while the home side struggled to play their game.

After a few chances in the first 15 minutes, Beaman found the lead with a goal by Alphonso Gooden in the 22nd minute. The forward, assisted from the right flank, readied himself inside the box and finished with a great touch in the top right corner.

Beaman continued to dominate and came close to doubling the advantage with a header by midfielder and captain Kwadwo Poku.

Later, in the 30th minute, the captain found the back of the net in a 1v1 with Golden Lion goalkeeper Chas Cross, giving Beaman a 2-0 advantage.

The visitors continued to push as they maintained hold of the ball and looked to find their third of the night with Seth Poku, but stopped by an impressive cross to keep BGFC afloat.

In the second 45 minutes, the home side came out with a completely different approach and with just three minutes into the half, shortened the advantage with a goal by Jacob Liddy – who won the challenge with Beaman’s defender and finished with a shot on the ground in the bottom left corner beating BUFC goalkeeper Alex Rodriguez.

The Golden Lions made themselves dangerous again and came close to finding the equalizer.

In the 78th minute, however, Beaman found the third of the night off a devastating counterattack ended with a tap-in goal by forward Hayden Black, sealing the game to crush Bowling Green’s hopes for a comeback.

“We’re proud of our guys, it’s our first experience doing this,” said BGFC head coach Evan Sutherland. “They stayed together and gave it a fight tonight.”

Despite the loss, Sutherland believes this is a valuable experience for the team’s growth moving forward.

“It’s really about growing and getting this experience, these experiences, this is so valuable for these guys because like I said, we got a lot of guys that are 19, 20 years old,” he said. “We’re going to grow, we’re going to keep getting better and you know, see if we come back here next year and move forward.”

Beaman captain Kwadwo Poku has an interesting US Open Cup resume from his earlier playing days. In addition to his nine career tournament goals, he is one of two players to score a goal in three consecutive tournaments for three different teams at three different levels. Poku scored for the Georgia Revolution (NPSL) in 2013, Atlanta Silverbacks (NASL, Div. 2 pro) in 2014 and then for New York City FC (MLS, Div. 1) in 2015. He shared his thoughts on the game and the final result.

“It’s really important, it’s our first you know, I think for Beaman, it’s our first Open Cup game and obviously, everybody wants to be in the US Open Cup regardless of what level, so you know, the guys were determined to win,” he said.

With the win, Beaman advances to the third qualifying round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, to be played Nov. 19-20.

“It’s going to get harder and harder and harder,” said Poku. “You got to take it one at a time, you got to work day in day out because it’s not going to get easy, so, again, you know, we will train and we will do our best to get to where we want to get to.”

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Inter San Francisco (San Francisco Soccer Football League / USASA)
4:0
Real San Jose (National Soccer League / USSSA)
PAL Stadium; San Jose, CA

By Abel Anguiano

Inter San Francisco took down Real San Jose by a score of 4-0 at PAL Stadium in San Jose on Saturday in the second round of the U.S. Open Cup qualifying tournament. It was a rematch of last year’s opening round qualifying game, which Inter won by a score of 4-2.

What began as a decently even match eventually turned into San Francisco domination. Half an hour into the match, Inter would net their first after a Dylan Autran shot found its way past the goalkeeper to put the visitors up by one. At the death of the first half, Inter struck twice more with Dylan Autran netting his second and assisting Gamal Compaore to make it 3-0 at the break.

The second half was a much more tame game of football, but Real San Jose still found themselves overwhelmed by the attacking presence of Autran and former pro Matthew Fondy. The latter would find the back of the net after a corner kick play, putting the game to bed. The rest of the game lacked drive from the home side while San Francisco played as if they were playing a practice scrimmage. The match ended 4-0 with Real San Jose finding themselves out of the competition for the fourth year in a row, while Inter San Francisco advanced to the next round.

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Davis Legacy SC (UPSL)
2:1
Elk Grove Blues (UPSL)
11 p.m.  Bartholomew Sports Park; Elk Grove, CA

By Marco Lopez

Davis Legacy SC defeated Elk Grove Blues by a final score of 2-1 at the Bartholomew Sports Park in the 2nd round of the 2023 US Open Cup qualifying tournament.

After a close 4-3 win against UC Davis Club Soccer in the 1st round on Sept. 17, Davis Legacy SC again took the victory over Elk Grove Blues in a very intense matchup highlighted by physical defense. The first half was an all-out dogfight with several opportunities being just short of a goal, whether it was a 1 on 1 or a long ball. And for the beginning of the second half, it seemed like the scoring drought would continue for both teams. That is until Gabriel Moreno scored in the 81st minute to put Elk Grove Blues up 1-0. 

This, however, gave Davis new life and motivation as they would go on to score two goals within four minutes of each other to seal the game. James Togbah would score in the 84th minute while Lesia Simon Thetsane would land the finishing blow in the 88th minute. With that being said, both soccer clubs played a very gutsy match with each giving maximum effort. But the offensive pressure that Davis’s front line exerted in the second half was too much Elk Grove in the end.

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16

Coronado Athletic Club (UPSL)
0:4
UDA Soccer (UPSL)
Field of Dreams Soccer Complex; Las Cruces, NM

By Edward Camp

UDA Soccer took on the visiting Coronado Athletic Club of Cochise County, Arizona in Las Cruces, New Mexico. From the opening kick, UDA dominated every aspect of the game. Mattias Cavallo scored the opener in the 15th minute for UDA, who kept up pressure on Coronado throughout the rest of the first half.

Coronado would take their only shot on goal early in the second half before Eric Gomez-Silva scored a brace in the 59th minute and the 61st minute to put UDA up 3-0.

Marco Millan put up their fourth in the 75th minute to close out the scoresheet. By then, Coronado had seemingly accepted their fate, playing with little urgency as UDA dropped back to defend their win.

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IASC Boom (Rochester District Soccer League / USASA)
3:1
Sahara Gunners FC (UPSL)
Dobson Field (D’Youville University); Buffalo, NY

By Jonathan Molik

On a stereotypical gloomy Sunday in Buffalo, NY we saw the Sahara Gunners host the IASC Boom. Witman Hernandez opened the scoring early for Boom with a goal on the counterattack in the fourth minute. It only took them twelve minutes to notch a second goal. This time Witman was providing the setup for Ali Shawish to slot it home between the legs of the keeper. In the twenty second minute we see the Gunners grab one back. Off a corner kick, Kovan connects with a powerful header and slams it into the back of the net. Keeping with how things were going, it only took Boom sixty seconds to regain their two goal lead thanks to another great finish from Witman Hernandez.

The technically gifted Gunners were unable to keep up with the quality of possession and teamwork on display from Boom. The Gunners lacked the last pass in the final third of the field and because of this failed to create scoring opportunities. The game finished 3-1 in favor of Boom.

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Lancaster Elite (UPSL)
0:2
Vereinigung Erzgebirge (United Soccer League of Pennsylvania / USASA)
Vereinigung Erzgebirge Clubhouse; Warminster, PA

By Greg Oldfield

Derek Antonini scored early and added an assist to lead Vereinigung Erzgebirge past Lancaster

Elite 2-0 in the Second Round of qualifying for the 2023 US Open Cup. The hosts and current leaders in the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania jumped on the board 11 minutes in when Angelo Dambalas played a diagonal ball to Antonini that beat the Lancaster back line. Antonini took a few touches before beating reserve keeper Andrea Disomma.

VE Goals (video courtesy of Scott Reiber)

Chris Baker doubled the VE lead four minutes into the second half after Dambalas forced a turnover and sprung Antonini free again down the right side. Antonini beat the Lancaster back, and Baker smashed home the cross from inside the six. In the 78th minute, Alec Neumann played Antonini in over the top, but the VE forward’s shot hit the crossbar. Minutes from the end, VE’s Greg Shertzer jumped on an Evan Vare long ball with only Disomma to beat, but his unselfish layoff to Antonini forced an incredible sprawling save by the Lancaster keeper. Lancaster nearly pulled one back in the 90th minute when reserve forward Troy Mead’s shot hit the outside post.

Despite the loss, Lancaster coach Gino Disomma was pleased with his team’s effort.

“We’re on the younger side,” he said. “I think the inexperience showed a little bit.”

Lancaster won the first round 3-2 over USLPA side Lancaster City FC in extra time. The UPSL team is currently eighth in the Northeast Division. “We’re happy to have been in the second round,” Disomma said. “We’re a new team coming together, so just the experience of getting this, and as we grow, I think it’s going to be better for us as well.”

VE will await their opponent for the third round of qualifying, which will take place the weekend of November 18 th -20 th . Last year, VE was knocked out in the third round by Philadelphia Lone Star FC. VE defeated Lone Star 2-1 in the first round in September. Antonini is excited about advancing, and when asked about what his team needs to do to prepare for the next opponent, he said:

“Just keep guys healthy and get all our guys here. We were missing some good players, Mike Reese, Sean Peckham, and Steve Neumann. If we can get those guys and we’re healthy, we can compete with anybody.”

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West Chester United SC (United Soccer League of Pennsylvania / USASA)
4:0
United German Hungarians (United Soccer League of Pennsylvania / USASA)
Temple University Ambler Campus; Ambler, PA

By Matt Ralph (BrotherlyGame.com)

Finn Reese had a pair of goals and an assist in a four-goal second half to lead West Chester United to a win over his former team on Sunday afternoon. After a scoreless first half with chances falling to both teams – Chas Wilson hit the crossbar in the best chance of the half – Reese found the breakthrough in the 57th minute. It came from a pass into the box from Thomas King that Reese was able to collect and fire with his right foot across his body to beat UGH keeper James Brett.

Playing with the 1-0 lead, West Chester was able to find more space moving forward in the thick grass and doubled their advantage 12 minutes later when Reese played a long lofted ball right into the path of substitute Levi Maruca, who still had some work to do to beat two defenders and Brett but showed his technical skill to do so.

UGH still had some life left – West Chester captain Luca Mellor put out several fires on dangerous counters from Jason Pixley and Sixtus Akinlosuto – but didn’t have an answer to match West Chester’s fresh legs coming off the bench. Reese reached into his bag of tricks and pulled out a rabbit when he was able to touch a ball from King around his defender, collect it off the back spin and poke it home to make it 3-0 in the 70th minute. Whether he intended it or not, it was a lovely goal reminiscent of Dutch great Dennis Bergkamp.

Substitute Clay Moyer fired home the fourth of the day after finding space at the top of the box and placing it into the bottom corner with a kiss off the left post. The goal was assisted by substitute Mason Miller and substitute Jake Gosselin was inches away from adding a fifth minutes later off a well played through ball from Moyer. In the end, the game was closer than the 4-0 score line but the class of Reese and the depth of the Predators’ bench proved the difference. 

Man of the Match: Finn Reese. He had two great goals and a lovely assist but could’ve had more with two perfectly placed passes into the box. He was also a force defensively and defending set pieces. Luca Mellor and Thomas King also deserve a mention for their standout play on the day too. 

Highlights:

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1927 SC (Ohio Valley Premier League / USCS)
1:1
Chicago House AC (Midwest Premier League / USASA)
Hales Franciscan High School ; Chicago, IL
Chicago House AC advance 4-3 in penalty kicks

By Joe Chatz

Chicago House Athletic Club utilized a 91st minute equalizer to advance to the third round of Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying Sunday after defeating 1927 Fort Wayne Sporting Club 4-3 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 draw at Hales Franciscan High School in Chicago. 

Less than eight minutes into the match, Chicago found themselves down a goal. Fort Wayne’s Uriel Macias was taken down in the penalty area, earning his side a penalty that Breno Boccoli de Oliviera slotted home to give the visitors the 1-0 lead. 

Fort Wayne maintained the lead until the first minute of second half stoppage time when Chicago was awarded a penalty kick after Seo-in Kim was taken down in the penalty area. Kim netted the subsequent penalty kick and sent the match into extra time. 

Neither side generated much of an attack in either of the extra time periods save for Chicago’s Adam Mann being sent off in the 120nd minute after receiving his second yellow card, sending the match to spot kicks.

Fort Wayne’s Boccoli de Oliviera went first and gave his side the 1-0 lead at the spot. Chicago’s Shannon Seymour then skied his attempt over the crossbar, keeping his side down a goal. 

After both teams scored in the second and third rounds, Chicago’s keeper Anthony Halterman took center stage. Halterman saved both the fourth and fifth penalty kicks from Fort Wayne before stepping to the spot himself, needing to score to win the match. Halterman’s shot beat the keeper to his right and sent Chicago into the third round of qualifying

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Boulder United FC (Colorado Super League / USASA)
1:2
Athletic Club of Sloan’s Lake (Colorado Super League / USASA)
Wheat Ridge High School; Wheat Ridge, CO

By Andrew Mosier

Athletic Club of Sloan’s Lake scored twice in the final 10 minutes of the match to advance past Boulder United FC 2-1 in the second round of 2023 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying. Jacob Love put the hosts ahead in the 94th minute after JD Michael put the match on level terms with four minutes to play in regulation. Arnuflo Becerra Garcia opened the scoring in the fourth minute to put the visitors up 1-0 before either team had a chance to settle into the match. After an even first half and start of the second, the game grew frantic and foul-riddled with six cautions and an ejection in the final half-hour of the match as Sloan’s Lake pushed for an equalizer.

Michael netted his first goal of the qualifying cycle from his center back position, carefully pushing the ball to the near post after Boulder could only partially clear the ball after a Sloan’s Lake set piece. With time waning, it looked like both teams were content to go to extra time when Jack O’ Brian found Love with a little space in the middle of the field with pin-point service. With more time than he had enjoyed all game, Love had little trouble scoring his second goal this qualifying cycle.

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Mint Hill FC (UPSL)
1:3
Tobacco Road FC (Triangle Adult Soccer League / USASA)
Durham County Memorial Stadium; Durham, NC

By Michael Battista

Tobacco Road FC pulled away in the second half against Mint Hill FC and finished the match with 3-1 winning scoreline. Jordan Snell and Orlin Roque both got goals in the second half for the home side. Joaquin Del Rosario opened up the scoring in the first half.

Tobacco’s first open cup qualifying win came after a seemingly quiet first half. Del Rosario’s goal in the 25th minute, assisted by Cameron Steele, was the culmination of a more experienced team taking control. Steele headed the ball across the box towards Rosario who tapped in the go-ahead goal. Of note, Steele last played in the US Open Cup in a 2018 North Carolina FC (USL Championship) win over Lansdowne Bhoys FC in the Second Round. That type of experience benefited Tobacco against Mint City, which only completed its inaugural UPSL campaign earlier this summer.

After the break, Tobacco doubled their lead quickly when Roque found Snell to make it 2-0 off a breakaway. However, the visiting UPSL side responded. Erick “Junior” Rivas assisted Edin Velagic on a goal less than sixty second after TBFC to make it 2-1. Mint couldn’t break the bank on a tying goal however. In the 65th minute, Snell paid Roque back and assisted on his game sealing score to make it 3-1. The quick cut-in from the right wing and left strike into the upper corner of the net from 30 yards out had little chance of being saved.

Mint City’s inaugural Open Cup campaign ends after one game while Tobacco looks ahead to the next round. Road came close to qualifying for the tournament earlier this summer when they competed in the National Amateur Cup. In the USASA Region III tournament, they reached the semifinal where the team fell to eventual (disqualified) champion Beaman United FC.

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Naples United FC (National Soccer League / USSSA)
0:4
Naples City FC (UPSL)
Paradise Coast Sports Complex; Naples, FL
Match was ended in the 65th min. due to weather

In a match between a pair of clubs from Naples, Fla., it was Naples City who cruised to a 4-0 win over Naples United FC. City jumped out to a 3-0 lead at halftime with goals from Raidel Ramos, Alejandro Martinez and Mateo Rolon, they would add a fourth in the second half but the match was halted in the 65th minute due to severe weather.

BROADCAST

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Lansdowne Yonkers FC 3  (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
3:0
New York Greek American SC 0 (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
Fleming Park; Yonkers, NY

By Dave Einhorn

Landsdowne Yonkers FC moved into the third round of US Open Cup qualifying after moving past the New York Greek Americans, 3-0. Yonkers started the game on the front foot as they took an early lead within five minutes. Shamir Mullings got on the end of a ball launched upfield and skillfully guided it past the goalkeeper. Each side had to substitute a player for injuries sustained in the first half. Neither side was happy with the referee’s decisions on fouls. NY Greek Americans grew into the game but could not find a first-half equalizer. The score was 1-0 at half-time.

Lansdowne did waste any time in the second half. Bala Danso volleyed home a cross in the 47th minute to double the lead. NY Greek Americans pushed on, having a goal ruled out for offside, but could not otherwise find an answer. Tensions mounted in the 65th minute when Chris Katona took a throw-in that hit a Lansdowne player in the head. Katona was sent off, and NY Greek Americans were down to ten men. Lansdowne added one more goal from Daryl Kavanagh in the 83rd minute.

After the game, Lansdowne Yonkers head Coach Sean Kelly said, “our gameplan went well from the very start. We worked hard for each other, and overall I think that set the momentum for the game.” Meanwhile, Jack Nuttall of NY Greek Americans said, “We have to give credit to Lansdowne; they’re a great team. For us, I think we need to make sure we’re set to go from the . here is to start the game properly.”

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Christos FC (Maryland Super Soccer League / USASA)
1:1
DCFC (DC Premier League / USASA)
Jelleff Recreation Center; Washington, D.C.

DCFC advances 5-4 on penalty kicks

By Sam Luebke

In US Open Cup play, DC Premier League side DCFC beat Maryland Super Soccer League side Christos FC on penalty kicks. Christos FC controlled the play throughout the match, holding a clear edge in possession. Christos FC players Morgan Lussi, with the ball at his feet, and Cody Albrecht, knocking balls from the back, led the Christos FC attack. Christos FC was rewarded with a deserved Lussi goal off a goalmouth scramble in the 32’. Christos FC carried the lead into halftime.

However, Christos FC were not able to generate clear goal scoring opportunities and put the game away. Throughout the match, DCFC defended confidently and competently and always looked dangerous on the counter attack. DCFC’s penalty kick goal, at 67’, converted by Harrison Engoren, was against the run of play but well deserved given their energy and poise.

The score remained 1-1 through 90’ and through both periods of extra time.  In the penalties, DCFC was perfect, converting all five. Christos FC miss on the first PK was the difference between these two clubs tonight. DCFC’s Jonathon Horlyck converted the fifth PK, giving DCFC the victory.

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Outbreak FC (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
0:1
Escondido FC (UPSL)
San Pasqual High School; Escondido, CA

By Mathias Medel

The second round of the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup qualifiers continued in San Diego, Calif., as Escondido FC (UPSL) emerged victorious over opponents Outbreak FC (SWPL) with a score of 1-0. 

Both teams came into the match having won their last qualifier in penalties, however none were needed on a night where neither team could develop clear chances on goal. It took only three minutes for the home side to get on the scoresheet through a corner header by midfielder Omar Rodriguez Corral, who also scored the winning penalty in his team’s round one win. 

For the next 87 minutes, however, Escondido FC struggled to maintain possession, with Outbreak FC also lacking any promising opportunities on goal. 

With their win, Escondido FC looks to their round three matchup on the weekend of Nov. 19.

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SC Vistula Garfield (Garden State Soccer League / USASA)
2:1
Jackson Lions FC (Garden State Soccer League / USASA)
Donovan Catholic High School; Toms River, NJ

By Michael Battista

In a battle of Garden State Soccer League rivals, SC Vistula Garfield knocked off Jackson Lions FC, 2-1, to advance into the Third Round of qualifying.

Jackson, a qualifying tournament regular, held a majority of possession early in the first half and kept most of the action in Vistula’s end. However, they failed to capitalize on any chances while Vistula waited patiently for chances to counter. In the 20th minute, Garfield’s Paul Kondratowicz found himself with the ball just outside the penalty area. The NJIT senior shot from the right side, over Lions’ keeper Jhan Paul Mayorga, and into the opposite side netting to make it 1-0. As the game evened out each team fell into a highly defensive front. It was something Jackson excelled at last season in the GSSL, only allowing eight goals all season. However on Sunday it was a defensive error that cost them when a foul in the box sent Garfield’s Nicholas Kozdron to the spot. He converted his subsequent game-winning penalty kick in the 60th minute to make it 2-0.

The Lions offense tried to bounce back but were missing captain David Nigro. The former Monmouth University star left the game at halftime with an apparent injury. While other players like Rutgers alumni and Danish professional Vincenzo Pugliese and former NPSL Golden Boot winner Matt Nigro, brother to David, the team couldn’t find enough consistency in time. Dan Pizzimenti converted a penalty kick of his own with five minutes to play but it was too little, too late. Jackson’s roster depth couldn’t overcome Vistula, who only had one player available on the bench for a sub.

The Lions loss is their second straight in qualifying after winning their opening match. The team has yet to make an appearance in the tournament proper. Garfield meanwhile is continuing to thrive in 2022. Currently celebrating its 70th anniversary, the club has seen much success on the field this past year. It finished runner-up in the GSSL Super Division this past season, won a game in the Amateur Cup regionals, and defeated a former US Open Cup champion last round in qualifying. Garfield, the oldest polish soccer club in the country, is making its first appearance in tournament qualifying (since USSF took control in 2015).

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City Soccer FC (National Soccer League / USSSA)
2:0
Hurricane FC (National Soccer League / USSSA)
Seacrest Soccer Complex; Delray Beach, FL

By Austin Robillard

In what was a rather chippy game at the Seacrest Soccer Complex between Hurricane FC and City Soccer FC, the control that City had over the course of the match was enough to go through by way of a 2-0 scoreline.

Both sides were physical early on, resulting in a couple of early yellow cards throughout the first half. City dominated possession through the first forty-five minutes, but the apparent “bend, don’t break” attitude in defending from Hurricane was working quite well. It wasn’t until the last play of the half that City finally broke through. 

A line-breaking pass in behind the Hurricane defense and a one-on-one chance with their keeper with only seconds to play in the half put City up 1-0. Their #16 rounded the young Hurricane goalie and finished simply into an empty net.

Six minutes into the second half, after Hurricane had made some substitutions, City were able to double their lead. Hurricane couldn’t withstand the barrage of attacks that City was putting forth, and the second and final goal of the game, coming in the fifty-first minute, was enough to put Hurricane down and out for the count.

The game had opened up a bit for both sides and remained very physical, but Hurricane wasn’t  able to find a goal to put them back in the match. Their best chance came with about five minutes left in the game, and the striker, unfortunately, bottled a one-on-one chance with the City keeper. With space everywhere, he found his shot going right at the goalie for a simple save.

The game ended 2-0, and City Soccer FC will be on their way to the third round of qualifying thanks to their possession dominance and getting clinical at crucial moments. They’re looking to make the tournament for the second straight year. Hurricane FC, however, will plan for next year’s cup run and focus on its UPSL season in 2022.

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Juventus Academy (UPSL)
1:3 (AET)
Miami Soccer Academy (National Soccer League / USSSA)
Monsignor Edward Pace High School; Miami Gardens, FL

It’s been a bad October for teams named Juventus. First Juventus F.C. was upset by Israel side Maccabi Haifa F.C. in the Champions League group stage. Now last weekend, Juventus Academy fell, 3-1, in extra time to Miami Soccer Academy. Which is the bigger loss? You be the judge.

Miami controlled the match possession wise and lead in shots on goal (18 to 2). But that didn’t mean they controlled the game entirely. Juventus took the lead with the last play of the first half and went into the break ahead. After halftime, MSA responded with a tying goal from Jeff Mesidor in the 48th minute. Neither side could find the back of the net for the rest of the half. In extra time, Miami once again started quickly and scored in the 93rd minute thanks to Kemar Jordan. A clinching goal in the final minute of the first ET half (115th) from Jhojan Leyton made it 3-1. The scoreline remained and MSA moved on to next month’s third round.

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Miami United FC (National Soccer League / USSSA)
5:0
International Soccer Association (UPSL)
UPSL Stadium (Broward College-South Campus); Pembroke Pines, FL

By Michael Battista

Miami United FC had little trouble downing the International Soccer Association (ISA) on Sunday night. The team won, 5-0, to move on in the qualifying tournament.

Two players with overseas professional experience scored goals in the first half. Andrea Pastore (formerly of Serie B & Serie C in Italy) scored the team’s second goal in the 31st minute. Not long after Robertino Insúa made it 3-0 in the 38th minute. The former Club Atlético San Lorenzo San Lorenzo (Argentina) player is returning after scoring a goal in last year’s First Round with Miami. Manuel Conte opened the scoring in the 20th minute.

United kept the pressure in the second half and saw additional goals from Miguel Benito (71’) and Shamar Shelton (83’).

Miami United has been fairly active in the Open Cup since its founding in 2012. The main team, which competes in the National Premier Soccer League, has qualified for the tournament via the national league track four times. Its most recent qualification came last year where United defeated local qualifier City Soccer FC in the First Round before falling to USL Championship side (The) Miami FC. United’s U-23 team, as members of the UPSL, qualified for the canceled 2020 tournament (aka why the first team declined its earned bid that year – since half the roster was cup-tied).

United confirmed to TheCup.us that the team taking part in qualifying is its first team squad.

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BattleBorn FC (NISA Nation / USASA)
4:2
Modesto City Football Club (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
Central Catholic High School; Modesto, CA

By Michael Battista

BattleBorn FC took a commanding four goal lead and survived an attempted comeback by Modesto City FC to advance, 4-2, to the third qualifying round.

The lone Nevada team in this year’s tournament only needed 30 seconds to get on the board. Junior Mahi, who also plays for USL League Two side San Francisco Glens SC, finished off a 30 yard diagonal pass from Jonathan Cuevas to go up, 1-0. Cuevas wasn’t done helping as the next goal started with a throw-in by him to forward Joaquin Garcia Broggi. He drilled past defenders and beat the Modesto keeper for a tap into the corner to make it 2-0.

The defending NISA Nation Pacific Region champions weren’t done before halftime. Cuevas once again found Broggi, this time off a chip pass, on-side and past the back line. The forward faked out the keeper and walked in his second goal of the game. Not wanting to leave matters to chance, Broggi cemented the hat-trick in the second half. On a run, winger Mahi took the ball up to the end line and played a pass into the box near the penalty spot. Broggi taped the ball into the left corner.

Modesto City scored two goals in the second half but ran out of time. Ramon Alcazar recovered the ball from high pressing the opposition and then took down field. He smashed it the net around the 63rd minute. The second came off a corner kick where captain Diego Medina headed a ball down towards Raul Cortez. He subsequently used his head to redirect the ball into the net. Medina saw a second yellow card in the 79th minute but Modesto nearly scored down a man in the 85th minute, keeping the pressure until the very end.

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Temecula FC (SWPL / USASA)
1:7
Orange County FC (UPSL)
Orange County Great Park (Field 12); Irvine, CA

By Brian Harrington

A cool Sunday evening at Field 12 of the Great Park Sports Park in Irvine, CA was the location for OCFC vs Temecula FC 2nd round US Open Cup qualifying action. OCFC controlled the ball for the majority of the first 30 minutes and were up 4-0 quickly. The last 15 minutes of the first half Temecula did better pushing into midfield and their fan base should be noted for showing up in numbers with drums and chants and sticking with their team through the tough start.

Minute 48 of the second half Temecula came out with more energy and brought the score to 4-1. The energy faded into more balanced possession for the remainder of the game ending with a final of 7-1 in favor of OCFC.

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Legend Football Gold (Federal Way Men’s Open Sunday / USASA)
1:0
Bellevue Athletic FC (UPSL)
Bellevue College Soccer Field; Bellevue, WA

In a game played at Bellevue College just outside of Seattle, the visitors Legend Football Gold came away with a 1-0 win over Bellevue Athletic FC. In a game short on offense, the lone goal came early when Karsimi Konneh of Legend Football Gold received a ball over the top of the Bellevue defense. He ran onto it and found himself 1-on-1 with the goalkeeper and he slotted it into the lower corner to open the scoring in the 19th minute. That would be one of the few shots on goal for the road team. Most of the game would be filled with long ball attempts by Legend FG but few chances. The Legend defense would hold Bellevue to even fewer chances as they were unable to break the shutout.

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Valley FC Raiders (NISA Nation / USASA)
0:2
Olympians FC (UPSL)
Pioneer Park; Peoria, AZ

By Jim Coppock

Olympians FC hosted Valley FC Raiders at Pioneer Park on a gorgeous Sunday evening and came out 2-0 victors in front of about 100 supporters. This was the Olympians’ first game in their first attempt at qualification and Valley’s second game in their first attempt.

All 90 minutes were played at a high tempo and there was no clear winner until second half stoppage time. Both halves were an end-to-end grudge match. 

Olympians would open up their goal account early; the 6th minute from Josias Ortizwith a blast from about 28 yards out. 

In the 56th minute, Valley’s #17, Lorenzo Davalos was sent off after a clumsy challenge from behind on Eduaro Jasso. In spite of being short handed, Valley continued attacking pressure.

Valley Raiders would go a second man down through injury in the 90th minute, Hector Canton would need to be helped off the field; he would not return. Three minutes later, a build up from Olympians resulted in a close range blast by #14, Roberto De Lima. This would be deflected and fall to the foot of #7, Agustin Orozco, who slotted home to put the game away, finally.

Olympians’ Paolo Cardozo would establish himself as the engine of the team, playing both sides of midfield and under the forward line. Most attacks went through him, if not started outright by him. On the other side, Valley’s #8, Victor Rolph, had the same role for his team. Both teams had many good attacking efforts and both goalkeepers had fantastic saves to keep the score close.

The win advances Olympians to the third qualifying round, to be held November 19-20, with an opponent to be determined later.

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Desert FC (UPSL)
6:1
LA Monsters FC (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
Orange County Great Park (Field 8); Irvine, CA

In their Open Cup qualifying debut, Desert FC cruised to a 6-1 win over the LA Monsters FC at Orange County Great Park. The UPSL newcomers eliminated the Monsters, handing them their second straight one-and-done qualifying run. LA’s lone goal came from Nahoul Gonzales in the 65th minute via a converted penalty kick.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19

Capo FC (NISA Nation / USASA)
4:1
Laguna United FC (UPSL)
La Paz Sports Park; Laguna Niguel, CA

By Michael Battista

Capo FC needed to a few extra days but waisted no time in their match against Laguna United FC. Capo, short for Capistrano Football Club, won Wednesday’s game 4-1. The original match on Sunday night was initially delayed due to lightning in the area before both team’s ran up against a venue curfew. The groups instead met once again at La Paz Sports Park 72 hours later.

Daniel Segal scored in the 4th minute for Capo to get the ball rolling before Fatmir Becovic doubled up the score in the 15th minute. Hevany Mota added two goals of his own as well, closing out the first half in the 39th minute. He then opened the second with another quick score in the 47th minute. It wasn’t smooth sailing for Capo to close out the match. Sergio Montes saw two yellow card in quick succession in the 71st & 77th minutes, forcing his team to play down a man for the rest of the match. Laguna capitalized with a goal from Alex Fafilek in the 83rd but that was it.

Capo is taking part in it’s second straight Open Cup qualifying tournament. Last year, the team reached the final round before falling to San Fernando Valley FC, 2-1.

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Two weeks ago Orlando City SC lifted the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup by defeating Sacramento Republic FC, 3-0. The finish of the 2022 edition has little room to breath as the new cycle has already kicked off. Last weekend saw the first qualifying round of the 2023 tournament begin around the country featuring Open Division teams. In total, 34 matches took place across eleven states and the nation’s capital.

The 108th edition of the Open Cup started off better than last year. While 2022’s qualifying round was filled with forfeits, only one game was this year. And even still, a game was played despite the ruling. The biggest story of the first qualifying round is how many familiar faces went down in their first match. Two former champions failed to escape the first weekend while two 2022 competitors were pushed to the brink.

Due to the size of the qualifying field, a grand total of 37 teams were granted byes through the first round. They’ll join the field of victors from last weekend in October’s second qualifying round. All teams will play in the fourth round this year with the final games taking place December 17-18.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2022

Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals (USL of Pennsylvania / USASA)
1:2
West Chester United (USL of Pennsylvania / USASA)
Ukrainian American Sports Center; North Wales, PA

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

Kicking off the 2023 U.S. Open Cup Qualifying campaign were rivals from the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania, West Chester United and the Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals. West Chester has previously qualified as a USASA team in 2016 & 2019, and their USL League Two club made the cut for the 2022 tournament.

On the opposite side, the Ukrainian Nationals are 4-time Open Cup champions (1960, 1961, 1963 & 1966), however they have yet to qualify for the Open Cup in the “Modern Era” (since 1995).

The Ukrainians jumped out to an early lead on a 12th minute goal from Jacob Gier, who played with Lehigh Valley United of USL League Two this past season. Equalizing in the 38th minute for West Chester was Finn Reese on an assist from Mike Gonzalez. Just as extra time seemed certain, West Chester were awarded a penalty in second half stoppage time, and Derek Remierez, who played this past summer with WCU’s USL League Two squad, converted the spot kick to send his team to the next round of qualifying.

@WCUSCPredators 2-1 Win. Not our best match but advance to 2nd Round! Great effort by @UkrNationalsSC ????! Ramirez winner 90'! @ussoccer @BrotherlyGame @USLPA @NPSLSoccer @PennFusion_SA @MattRalph_tBG @USLLeagueTwo @usopencup @PhilaUnion pic.twitter.com/A1F6hTFxbP

— West Chester United SC (@WCUSCPredators) September 17, 2022

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Houston FC (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
10:1
Galveston Pelicans FC (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
San Jacito College South; Houston, TX

Houston FC took one step closer to the 2023 US Open Cup with a comprehensive 10-1 victory over the Galveston Pelicans at San Jacito College South. Led by a hat trick by Quinton Bridges and a double by Mahmoud Adwani, Houston raced into the break with 5-0 lead. The second half saw five more Houston goals and Galveston’s goose egg was broken up by a goal from Ronaldo Garcia.

This marks just the fourth time since this new qualifying tournament began in 2015 that a team has reached double digit goals. 

With the win, Houston advances to the Second Qualifying round to be held October 15-16 with their opponent to be determined.

Houston FC goalscorers: Quinton Bridges (3), Mahmoud Adwani (2), Sergio Calvillo, Otney Crawford, Chukwuemeka Nwachukwu, Alejandro Vigil, Michael Luster. Galveston Pelicans: Ronaldo Garcia.

MOST LOPSIDED GAMES (Modern Qualifying Tournament, 2015-present)

1. Union Dubuque F.C. (MWPL) 14:0 Spartan FC (WPASL) – 2021 USASA Region II Amateur Cup Round 1
2. Newcastle United (UPSL) 13:0 Del Rey City SC (UPSL) – 2018 Qualifying Rd. 1
3. Strikers FC South Coast (UPSL) 11:0 AC Brea Steaua (SoCal Premier Lg.) – 2017 Qualifying Rd 1
3. FC Kendall (APSL) 11:0 Leu Blacks FC (UPSL) – 2018 Qualifying Rd. 1
3. Kalonji Pro-Profile (APSL) 1:12 SCU-Heat (UPSL) – 2021 USASA Region III Amateur Cup Group Stage
6. HOUSTON FC (NSL) 10:1 GALVESTON PELICANS FC (NSL) – 2022 Qualifying Rd. 1

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City Soccer FC (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
3:2
Florida Soccer Soldiers (UPSL)
Broward College-South Campus; Pembroke Pines, FL

In a rematch of last year’s “Win & You’re In” match, City Soccer FC and Florida Soccer Soldiers met again in US Open Cup Qualifying. This time it was the opening round. But it was a similar result as City Soccer came out on top by the score of 3-2.

City Soccer are seeking their second straight USOC berth, while Florida Soccer Soldiers will have to wait until next year to try to recapture the magic of their 2019 run that saw them knock off the Charlotte Independence (USL Championship) to reach the Third Round.

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Club de Lyon (NISA Nation / USSSA)
3:0
Deportivo Lake Mary FC (NISA Nation / USSSA)
Showalter Field; Winter Park, FL

In a battle of two Orlando-area clubs, Club de Lyon shutout Deportivo Lake Mary FC, 3-0. This is Club de Lyon’s first entry into US Open Cup qualifying, while DLM was attempting to qualify for the second time in as many years (they lost to Orlando FC Wolves, 4-0 in the opening round).

Victor Rojas opened the scoring in the first 20 minutes with a penalty kick. It remained a one-goal game until the final 10 minutes when Damian Duda doubled the lead and then an own goal (off a shot from Rojas) in stoppage time put the game away.

Club de Lyon are a new club competing in NISA Nation. They have already gotten off to a positive start having won the first edition of NISA Nation’s Florida Region.

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Oyster Bay United FC (UPSL)
2:1 (AET)
New Jersey Alliance FC (UPSL)
Darcy Field; Rockville Centre, NY

Oyster Bay United took a step toward returning to the US Open Cup with a 2-1 extra time win over New Jersey Alliance FC. Mike Bello put the visitors on top in the 4th minute. New Jersey, who attempted to qualify for the first time last year (lost in the second round to West Chester United), held that 1-0 lead until the very end.

However, United’s Said Giorgini equalized deep in second half stoppage time to send the match into extra time. Leonel Zelaya, a standout at Queens College (NCAA D-2) would score what would prove to be the game-winner in the 101st minute to send Oyster Bay into the next round.

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Juventus Academy (UPSL)
4:3
Doral SC (UPSL)
Broward College-South Campus; Pembroke Pines, FL

A pair of South Florida-based first-time qualifying entries squared off in Pembroke Pines, Fla. on Saturday. Juventus took control of the game early with three straight goals by Lucas Coro, Matias Paredes and Jacopo Camilli. Doral pulled one back before halftime as a shot was mishandled by the Juventus goalkeeper. A header right in front of goal took a bounce in front of goal and the keeper tried to make the stop but was unable to get enough of his hands to it as it ended up over his head and into the back of the net.

In the second half, Doral put the pressure on, earning a penalty kick. However, the goalkeeper dove to his left to get a piece of the low driving shot as it deflected off the post, deflected off his body before he could gather it. But Doral’s pressure would pay off as they cut the lead to 3-2. However, the comeback hopes were dashed with a cross from the right wing that was tapped in by Juve’s Edu Ramirez. Doral would add a late goal but it wasn’t enough as Juventus advanced to Round 2.

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Germantown City FC (UPSL)
2:1
Aegean Hawks FC (American Premier League / USASA)
River Hill High School Stadium; Clarksville, MD

Three-time Open Cup qualifiers Aegean Hawks of the American Premier League got off on the right foot against Germantown City FC (UPSL). They scored in the opening 10 minutes, only to see the lead disappear about 15 minutes later. Christian Okomo equalized for the home team with a shot from just outside the 18-yard box on the left side around the 25th minute. In the second half, Stephane Mankemi scored what would prove to be the game-winner in the 65th minute. Franklin Reyes was out on the left wing and delivered a cross which found Mankemi for the tap-in. With the win, Germantown City picks up a win in their Open Cup qualifying debut.

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FC Fort Worth (UPSL)
1:5
D’Feeters Kicks Soccer Club (UPSL)
Southwest High School; Fort Worth, TX

After earning their first ever Open Cup qualification in 2022, D’Feeters Kicks SC began their 2023 qualifying campaign with a decisive 5-1 victory over UPSL rivals FC Fort Worth at Southwest High School in Fort Worth, Texas. The two sides were already quite familiar with each other after a Spring 2022 UPSL league campaign that ended with DKSC finishing first and Fort Worth finishing second with just a single point separating the two sides in the final standings; though D’Feeters did finish with a resounding goal difference of +56. 

All five of the visitors’ goals came from different goalscorers, but it was Oscar Ocampo and Sebastian Mendez who led the way with each tallying both a goal and an assist. The home side were right there in it at halftime, but three second half goals from DKSC, including two in the final 10 minutes, left no doubt about the final result. 

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LA Monsters FC (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
3:0
Irvine FC (UPSL)
Wilmington Athletic Complex; Wilmington, CA

The LA Monsters have been regulars in the US Open Cup qualifying tournament since the modern format began in 2016 but have fallen painfully close to punching their ticket. After losing three times in “Win & You’re In” matches (2016, 2018, 2020), the Monsters are determined to take that next step. They got off to a positive start with a 3-0 home win over UPSL side Irvine FC, who were making their qualifying debut. A first half brace by 22-year-old Colombian Steven Ramirez (15th min., 30th min.) gave them a two-goal advantage at halftime. Oswaldo Rodriguez put the game out of reach in the 75th minute. Player/coach Larry Sanchez, the son of the team’s head coach Leo Sanchez, earned the clean sheet for the Monsters.

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SC Vistula Garfield (Garden State Soccer League / USASA)
1:0
New York Pancyprian Freedoms (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
Athenia Steel Recreation Complex; Clifton, NJ

By Michael Battista

SC Vistula Garfield knocked off three time Open Cup champion New York Pancyprian Freedoms, 1-0, thanks to a late game stunner.

The Freedoms controlled possession for most of the match. However the New York soccer institution was stopped by Garfield’s keeper Anthony Caruso. The former New Jersey Institute of Technology keeper earned the clean sheet in trial by fire, coming up huge on multiple Freedom chances. The winning moment came in the 89th minute as Garfield threw the ball long near the box. A quick flick to the far post saw Christopher Karcz (40 years old) dive for the header, sending the ball into the back of the net.

Vistula Garfield have entered the Open Cup in the past, but this is their first attempt since Open Division qualifying was revamped in 2016. The team, celebrating its 70th anniversary is having a tremendous year on the field. The team reached the semifinals of the USASA Region I Amateur Cup, knocking off FC Motown in the state final and Fall River FC in the regionals. A result of the team continuing to build on it’s long time heritage.

The Freedoms have entered Open Cup qualifying each of the last six years, qualifying for the 2016 tournament and the canceled 2020 edition. The Freedoms have also won three Open Cup Championship in 1980,.1982 and 1983. The team has also either qualified or attempted to qualify for every Open Cup tournament since it’s inception in the 1970s.

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Nova FC (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
0:0
Steel Pulse FC (Maryland Super Soccer League / USASA)
Nova FC advance on penalties, 3-1
VA Revolution Sportsplex; Leesburg, VA

By Chuck Nolan Jr.

2022 Open Cup qualifier Nova FC of the Eastern Premier Soccer League hosted Steel Pulse FC of the Maryland Super Soccer League.

Steel Pulse were reduced to 10 men after losing a player to a red card after 10 minutes. Pulse wound up going another 110 minutes down a man as the teams battled to a scoreless draw, leading tio a penalty shootout.

In the shootout Steel Pulse missed on two of their first three attempts, while Nova converted all three. Nova then missed on their fourth attempt, but Steel Pulse failed to convert their fourth shot, giving Novas the shootout win and advancing them to the Second Round of qualifying on October 15-16

Steel Pulse were making their third attempt at qualifying since 2019, while Nova advanced to the Second Round of the 2022 US Open Cup.
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.@NovaFc goalkeeper Tyler Back makes a save during penalty kicks in NoVa FC's @opencup win. #USOC2023 https://t.co/TmxBOMOdtw pic.twitter.com/rfSwLfN2FC

— Tim Harvey ???? ⚽️ ???? (@timharvFC) September 18, 2022

Lansdowne Yonkers FC (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
5:0
Manhattan Kickers FC (Cosmopolitan Soccer League / USASA)
Tibbetts Brooke Park; Yonkers, NY

By Michael Battista

Lansdowne Yonkers FC dominated their former league-mates Manhattan Kickers FC, 5-0, just north of New York City proper. The former Bhoys’ hunt for a fourth Open Cup berth will continue into next month’s round. The Kickers’ inaugural qualification run ended in disappointment as the team looks ahead to the 2022-23 Division 1 season in the Cosmopolitan Soccer League.

Yonkers’ newcomer Shawn Genus made his presence known, scoring three of his team’s five goals, including two in the first half (14’, 42’). Julio Espinal knocked in a shot in the 17th minute while Joseph DeVivo scored in the 44th. The Kickers looked out of their depth against Lansdowne. A final goal in the 81st minute via a penalty kick by Genus to complete his hat trick saw the team to the final whistle.

Lansdowne Yonkers FC vs. Manhattan Kickers FC. Powered by @newlogicaltech . @opencup qualifying @usopencup @epslsoccer @newlogical @tommysmythespn @cosmoleague https://t.co/ktG7DtwqwS

— Lansdowne Yonkers FC (@Lansdownebhoys) September 17, 2022

Lansdowne Yonkers FC vs. Manhattan Kickers FC – YouTube

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FC Denver (Colorado Super League / USASA)
2:0
Harpos FC (Colorado Super League / USASA)
Northfield High School; Denver, CO

Long time local rivals FC Denver and Harpos FC squared off for the third time in USOC qualifying, at Northfield High School in Denver. The two sides met last June in the Colorado Super League final, with Harpos coming out on top.

FC Denver is attempting to qualify for the first time since 2019, while Harpos FC are attempting to qualify for the first time since the canceled tournament of 2020 (prior to that 2016). A crowd of about 75 saw FC Denver come out 2-1 winners.

FC Denver would start the scoring in the 19th minute when Alex Stephan’s through ball found Leo Castillo for a shot. The shot was deflected into the path of Ismail Garcia who slotted home to take the 1-0 lead. Castillo took a free kick in the 43rd minute which deflected in front of goal and found the back of the net to give FC Denver a 2-0 lead going into halftime.

Both sides started the second half brightly, but Harpos would soon begin to wear down the Denver defense. After several good chances in the middle third of the half, Harpos would win a PK and convert it in the 90th minute. Not enough to save Harpos aspirations, FC Denver wins 2-1.

With the win, FC Denver advances to the Second Qualifying round to be held October 15-16 with their opponent to be determined.

Massive 2-1 win last night in @opencup qualifying. Great work from all involved. One down, three rounds to go. ✅✔️✔️✔️ @usopencup #usoc2023 #DenverBuilt #DenverSoccer pic.twitter.com/mWihm2ohNx

— FC Denver (@FC_Denver) September 18, 2022

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FC Arizona (UPSL)
5:1
Valley FC Raiders (NISA Nation / USASA)
Bell Bank Park; Mesa, AZ

In an all-debutantes’ affair, FC Arizona and Valley FC Raiders met in USOC qualifying. Valley FC Raiders came out the winners 5-1. This is the first meeting between the two teams in any competition and the first qualifying game in the first attempt for both teams.

The first half started fast. Both sides had good possession and chances. Valley would draw first blood when Kevin Olivarez would score his first of the evening in the 23rd minute. Ruben Phiri scored from a long-range blast in the 30th minute. FC Arizona keeper, Adrian Thomas, brought down an attacker outside his penalty area and was sent off in the 44th minute. Field player Yuki Enomoto would step into goal to deal with the resulting free kick, which was put away by Olivarez for his second of the night. The half ended 3-0 to the NISA Nation side.

The second half began with FC Arizona looking for a goal. They would dominate the games for several stretches, but to little joy. Valley’s Eduardo Lazaro would score in the 80 to make the lead 4-0. Just a few minutes later, Jesus Ruiz would get a great cross from Jordi Figueroa to break the shut out, making it 4-1. The momentum shifted quickly and in the 88th minute, Bwaleso Igulu would put the game to bed once and for all pushing the lead to 5-1.

With the win, Valley FC Raiders advances to the Second Qualifying round to be held October 15-16 with their opponent to be determined.

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Laguna United FC (UPSL)
3:0
Olympiacos CA (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
La Paz Sports Park; Laguna Niguel, CA

A pair of first-time entries from Southern California met in Laguna Niguel, Calif. with Laguna United FC defeating Olympiacos CA, 3-0. Yousef Farah opened the scoring with a penalty kick just before halftime. He would add a second goal from the run of play around the 70th minute, followed by a third goal from the team’s backup goalkeeper Jeremy Caringella who subbed on as a striker. United goalkeeper Ivan Hernandez earned the clean sheet for the home team.

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UC Davis Club Soccer (West Coast Soccer Association / USASA)
3:4
Davis Legacy SC (UPSL)
Dairy Outdoor Recreation Complex (UC Davis); Davis, CA

The Davis Legacy have been regulars in US Open Cup qualifying since 2016 (with the exception of 2020), but have yet to qualify for the US Open Cup proper. After two straight one-and-dones (2019, 2022), the Legacy picked up a 4-3 win over UC Davis Club Soccer.

UC Davis fall short in their Open Cup qualifying debut, joining a relatively small list of college club teams that have tried and failed to join the tournament.

UC Davis didn’t waste any time in taking the lead, scoring goals in the 7th and 12th minute of the match.  Davis Legacy’s tandem of Junior Kazeem and JJ Rigo were each able to score and tie the match before halftime.  The duo took charge in the second half as well, adding two more goals and creating an insurmountable lead.
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2022

Ruggles Pro FC (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
0:0
Boston Street FC (UPSL)
Boston Street advances 13-12 in penalty kicks
Fore Kicks II; Marlborough, MA
MATCH VIDEO

A pair of Massachusetts-based US Open Cup qualifying debutants met in Marlborough, Mass. on Sunday afternoon. While the match went 120 minutes without a goal, the two teams made up for it in the penalty kick shootout.

In the end, Boston Street FC advanced to the next round in the longest PK shootout in the tournament’s modern qualifying format (which began in 2015). Boston Street defeated Ruggles Pro FC 13-12 in a shootout that lasted 16 rounds.  

The first five rounds of the shootout ended in a 3-3 tie and rounds 3 through 11 resulted in mirrored results. Boston Street’s Eddie Yepes was able to bury his shot, which placed all of the tournament hopes and pressure on his teammate, goalkeeper PJ Mundis.  When Ruggles’ Michelle Lorran took his penalty kick, Mundis dove to his right, but was able to kick-save the ball away from the goal line. The tournament dreams of Boston Street FC were kept alive with that kick save. While the club redirects their focus back on the UPSL season, they can rest assured that they aren’t finished in their hopes to qualify for next year’s edition of the US Open Cup.

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Vereinigung Erzgebirge (USL of Pennsylvania / USASA)
2:1
Philadelphia Lone Star FC (UPSL)
Vereinigung Erzgebirge Clubhouse; Warminster, PA

Vereinigung Erzgebirge advanced to the second round of qualifying for the 2023 US Open Cup tournament after a 2-1 win against Philadelphia Lone Star FC. There were no goals in the first half but the second half was where all the action began. Kevin Smolyn scored the first goal in the match for VE in the 50th minute to put them ahead 1-0. Lone Star would respond in the 64th minute with a goal from Alvin Dahn. The score remained level until stoppage time when Johnny Ciarlante scored the game-winning goal to seal the win for Vereinigung Erzgebirge and avenge their loss (by the same score) to Lone Star in the qualifying rounds last year. VE advances in the opening round for the third tournament in a row in hopes of qualifying for the first time since 2002. (NOTE: VE qualified in 2020, but the tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic) 

https://twitter.com/BrotherlyGame/status/1571579570201022470

Goal highlights:

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Lancaster City FC (United Soccer League of Pennsylvania / USASA)
2:3 (AET)
Lancaster Elite (UPSL)
Lancaster Catholic High School Stadium; Lancaster, PA

We got the Lancaster, Pa. derby as both Lancaster Elite and Lancaster City made their debuts in the qualifying rounds for the 2023 US Open Cup. Lancaster Elite led City 2-1 at the half but City scored a dramatic equalizer in second half stoppage time. Jack Weaver would score for Lancaster Elite to give them the lead 3-2 in added extra time in the 110th minute, which was enough to send them through to the next round.  

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Team Tevez (DC Premier League / USASA)
2:4 (AET)
DCFC (DC Premier League / USASA)
Fields at RFK; Washington, D.C.

We got a rivalry match in  the nation’s capital as DCFC edged out Team Tevez 4-2 after added extra time to advance to the next round of qualifying for the U.S. Open Cup. It was a battle of the DC Premier League’s 2021 fall champions (DCFC) and the 2022 spring champions (Team Tevez) with both teams making their qualifying debut. In the first half, DCFC scored a pair of goals from Harry Engoren in the 41st and Charles Touche in the 43rd minute to put DCFC 2-0 going into halftime. However in the second half Team Tevez would respond quickly. They got a goal in the 48th minute from Colin Patch to cut the lead in half. Then, about 10 minutes later, Alex Firth scored the equalizer for Team Tevez. After 90 minutes, the game would go into extra time and DCFC would score two goals to get the win. Harry Engoren scored his second goal of the match and Ryan Mahoney added the insurance goal for DCFC to move on to the second round of qualifying. 

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Athletic Club of Sloan’s Lake (Colorado Super League / USASA)
3:0
Peak Eleven Football Club (Mountain Premier League / USASA)
Wheat Ridge High School; Wheat Ridge, CO

AC Sloan’s Lake advanced to the second round of qualifying with their first tournament win, 3-0 over local rivals Peak Eleven FC.

All the scoring came in the second half, sparked by a goal from each of the team’s starting forwards. Former AC Carpi (Italian Serie B) player Jacob Love connected in the 48th minute, while Jack O’Brian, who won a national title with Stanford in 2017, doubled the lead in the 52nd. Miguel Camerolinga put the game out of reach in the 64th minute.

For Peak Eleven, it was a one-and-done tournament after advancing last year in a dramatic PK shootout over FC Denver in their debut. They missed their first two attempts and managed to come back and win 4-3.

For Sloan’s Lake, they advance to Round 2 of the tournament which will be held Oct. 15-16 with their opponent to be determined.

pic.twitter.com/gheoybSGCC

— Athletic Club of Sloan’s Lake????????????⚽️✊????????????‍???? (@ACSLdirector) September 18, 2022

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Clearwater Chargers SC (UPSL)
0:4
Florida Premier FC (UPSL)
Glenn Oaks Park; Clearwater, FL

Florida Premier FC put on a dominating performance at Glenn Oaks Park as they shutout the Clearwater Chargers SC 4-0 to advance to the second round of qualifying. Both teams had some solid chances in the first half. Florida Premier had missed their penalty kick in the 10th minute, while Clearwater had a chance to score in the 21st minute but their shot hit the crossbar.

Florida would finally break through in the 42nd minute. Daht Faal won the ball at the top of the box, dribbled around the goalkeeper and put the ball into the back of the net before the defense could close him down.

Three minutes into the second half, Oliver Drost stole the ball from a Clearwater defender and played the ball across to Stewart Vigh at the opposite post to make it 2-0. In the 56th minute, Drost played provider again, beating two defenders and sending a ball across to Vigh who added his second of the night.

The game appeared to be out of reach when Alejandro Quintero Stewart played a through ball in behind the defense to Nico Colacci who beat the keeper to the ball and made it 4-0.

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Colorado Rovers (Colorado Super League / USASA)
1:3
Azteca FC (Colorado Super League / USASA)
Victoria Sports Park; Golden, CO

In a rematch from last year’s qualifying tournament, Azteca FC beat fellow Colorado Super League side Colorado Rovers, 3-1. It was the fourth time in as many tournament entries that they have won their opening game. Out of those four attempts, they have qualified three times (2017, 2018, 2022). Azteca dominated in the first half scoring three goals. Saul Garcia scored in the 6th minute from outside the box to put Azteca FC ahead 1-0. Jovany Herrera scored from a free kick to extend the lead to 2-0. Freddy Fragozo scored from another free kick chance to put Azteca up by three before halftime. The Rovers would add a goal late in the 83rd minute from Micah Herrmann but Azteca FC held on for the 3-1 victory.

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Kensington Soccer Club (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
0:3
United German Hungarians (USL of Pennsylvania / USASA)
Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School; Philadelphia, PA

The United German Hungarians, one of the oldest active clubs in the country, defeated Kensington SC 3-0 to advance to the second round. Gabe Dwyer scored the first goal for UGH off a header to give them a 1-0 lead in the first half. In the 54th minute, Mike Liska doubled UGH’s lead followed by Jason Rocha who would add one more goal to put UGH ahead 3-0 and seal the win.

For UGH, a team that was an Open Cup runner-up in 1977 and 1993, it was their first qualifying win since the 2018 competition when they beat Vereinigung Erzgebirge, 2-1 in extra time. The club has not qualified for the tournament since that runner-up finish in 1993.

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Miami United FC (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
3:1
Florida Brothers (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
Ted Hendricks Stadium (Milander Park); Hialeah, FL
MATCH VIDEO

Miami United FC cruised into the second round of the qualifying tournament with a 3-1 win over fellow National Soccer League side Florida Brothers. They scored off a corner kick in the 11th minute. Nine minutes later, a free kick from about 35 yards out took a bounce in front of the Florida Brothers goalkeeper who was already going to the ground and it went over his outstretched arms. In the 62nd minute, a crowded  box saw a pass sent out to the top of the box and it was drilled into the upper 90 to make it 3-0 United. Florida would break up the shutout late but Miami would move on to Round 2.

Highlights (spanish)

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Real Central NJ Soccer (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
2:4
Jackson Lions FC (Garden State Soccer League / USASA)
MCCC Soccer Stadium; West Windsor, NJ

Jackson Lions defeated Real Central NJ Soccer 4-2 to move on to the second round of qualifying for the first time. The Lions scored first in the 28th minute from Christopher Thorsheim. Jackson Lions would get another goal early in the second half to go up 2-0. The Lions scored another goal in the 59th minute to go up 3-0. Real Central NJ Soccer would get one back in the 61st minute to cut the score to 3-1. The Lions would add another goal later in the second half to go up 4-1. RCNJ would add one more late goal in the 88th minute but it was not enough as the Lions advance.

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Scots-American Athletic Club (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
0:5
Queensboro FC II (UPSL)
Kearny High School Stadium; Kearny, NJ

By Michael Battista

Queensboro FC II cruised past Scots-American Athletic Club, 5-0, in what might be the largest age gap ever between two Open Cup teams. Former LA Galaxy academy product Jonathan Santillan scored four of his team’s goals in a continuation of his performance last season in the UPSL.

He got to work quickly, taking advantage of a stunned Kearny Scots squad and scoring the opening goal in the 2nd minute. The pace of the game was simple from there; QBFC would attack and Kearny would clear the ball before repeating. In the 29th minute, one of these attacks forced a Scots foul on the last QBFC player on a break in the box. Santillan pulled a panelka calmly to make it 2-0 in the 23rd minute. Six minutes later, the former USYNT U-15 player struck from distance on the right side of the field, sending Scots’ keeper Arturo Botero diving in vain.

In the second half Kearny gained possession more but the game still fell into QBFC’s control. In total, possession favored the visiots somewhere around 70 percent. Joshua Saavedra scored in the 65th minute for Queensboro II to make it 4-0. The final nail came in stoppage time, with Queensboro down to 10 men due to an injury, where Jona finished off an excellent low cross from the right side as the game’s final play.

Kearny Scots exit the competition after making their first appearance of the Modern Era. The team first appeared in the second ever National Challenge Cup (1914-15) and dates officially back to the 1800s. TheCup.us’ *incomplete* records have their last USOC match back in 1948.

Queensboro meanwhile advanced to the second round to continue their stellar 2022. The academy/reserve team to the yet-to-launch USL Championship reached the UPSL national semifinals in their inaugural season this past Spring/Summer.

Both Kearny Scots & Queensboro II are on the field! #USOC2023 #EPSL #UPSL #QBFC pic.twitter.com/c5WhB8fflb

— Michael Battista (@MichaelBattista) September 18, 2022

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Inter San Francisco (San Francisco Soccer Football League / USASA)
5:0
Marin County Union SC (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
Beach Chalet Soccer Field; San Francisco, CA

By Michael Koenig

Inter SF cruised to a 5-0 victory over Marin County Union SC in a match played in windy and rainy conditions at the Beach Chalet. Last year, Inter made it to the third round of qualifying in its Open Cup debut, beating Real San Jose in a driving rainstorm at the Beach Chalet before losing 3-1 to Sporting ID11 in Lake Forest, California. This match marked Marin County Union’s Open Cup debut.

Inter added several players with professional experience for its Open Cup run, including former MLS and USL veteran Matt Fondy. After wrapping up his professional career with the Oakland Roots, Fondy helped Olympic Club of San Francisco qualify for the Open Cup in 2019 and led SF Metro to the final qualifying round in 2021 before losing in a shootout. 

Inter dominated the match from the opening whistle, thanks to a goal from Fondy in the 11th minute and another from Gerardo Burgos in the 38th minute. The second half was more of the same, with Fondy adding another in the 51st minute. Two other former Roots players also got onto the scoresheet later in the second half, with Dylan Autran scoring a few minutes later and Nikolai Littleton converting a penalty kick opportunity in the 80th minute to enable Inter to move on to the second round and a possible rematch with Real San Jose.

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Miami Soccer Academy (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
2:1
O’Shea’s FC (UPSL)
Monsignor Edward Pace High School; Miami Gardens, FL

Miami Soccer Academy held on to defeat O’Shea’s FC 2-1 to move on to the second round of qualifying. Miami Soccer Academy scored in the 11th minute with a goal from Christopher Torres and they held on to that lead into halftime. In the 60th minute O’Shea’s FC would get an equalizer from RC to tie the match 1-1. Five minutes later, Miami Soccer Academy would get their second goal and held on for the win. 

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New York Greek American SC (Eastern Premier Soccer League / USASA)
3:3
Newtown Pride FC (Connecticut Soccer League / USASA)
New York advances 11-10 in penalty kicks
Hofstra University Soccer Stadium; Hempstead, NY

It was a dramatic matchup on Long Island as NY Greek American SC advance on penalty kicks 11-10 against Newtown Pride FC to advance to the second round. After Newtown opened the scoring, Kurt Cameron equalized in the 32nd minute for the 4-time US Open Cup champs. Newtown re-took the lead in the 74th minute only to see Cameron tie the game back up seven minutes later. The match went into extra time and this time it was Cameron giving New York the lead in the 97th minute. The Greeks appeared to be escaping with a win only to see Newtown equalize in the 120th minute.

In the shootout, the first 10 rounds of penalty kicks produced 10 goals on each side. In Round 11, the Greeks’ goalkeeper made a save, followed by the 11th straight goal by New York to send them into the next round.

HIGHLIGHTS – @NYGreekAmerican vs. @NewtownPrideFC . @opencup Qualifying Round 1 . @USOpenCup#goal #soccerislife #futball #soccerlife #gameday⁠#soccer #sports #futbol #lovefootball #soccergame #thebeautifulgame #instafutbol #USASA #LISFL #CSL #EPSL #USSOCCER #USL #USLWLeague pic.twitter.com/7baqfQ6ulF

— New Logical (@newlogicaltech) September 19, 2022

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Outbreak FC (Southwest Premier League / USASA)
0:0
AS Los Angeles (UPSL)
Outbreak advances 4-2 in penalty kicks
Orange County Great Park; Irvine, CA

Outbreak FC, a US Open Cup qualifying regular, needed penalty kicks to get past qualifying debutants AS Los Angeles. After a scoreless 120 minutes, Outbreak relied on their former MLS goalkeeper Brian Rowe and won the shootout 4-2. Rowe, who spent most of his pro career with the LA Galaxy, made two saves, and guessed correctly on two others but couldn’t keep them out. After Trent Bryson missed the opening attempt for Outbreak, the team converted the next four (William Sanchez, Edgar Ortiz, James Turner, Matthew Murphy) to advance to Round 2. Outbreak is seeking to return to the tournament for the first time since their back-to-back appearances in 2016 and 2017.

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Rebels SC (UPSL)
2:2
Escondido FC (UPSL)
Escondido FC advances 3-1 on penalty kicks
Mount Miguel High School; Spring Valley, CA

By Mathias Medel

Round one of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualification schedule continued in San

Diego as a battle between two UPSL sides saw the visitors, Escondido FC, defeat Rebels SC 3-1 in a penalty kick shootout after a 2-2 draw.

The game began at a slow pace, with the referee handing out several yellow cars for players from both sides. Just three minutes before halftime, the home side’s Rafael Lua Rojo scored a tap-in to send the Rebels into the break with a 1-0 lead.

Coming back from halftime, Escondido FC looked like the better side, and equalized in the 69th minute off of a brilliant solo run from Marcos Rodrigo Celestino. With regulation time not being enough to find a winner, the game headed into extra time, where Escondido FC found the back of the net off of Christian Bahena’s curling shot into the right side net in the 98th minute.

Rebels SC responded with a well-timed volley by Edwing Zambrano off of a corner kick in the 107th minute, eventually sending the game into a penalty shootout. After both teams missed their first penalty, it was Rebels SC who couldn’t recover, with two of their shots hitting the crossbar. Escondido FC capped off the night with a win after Omar Rodriguez Corral converted from the spot, and ending the shootout in a 3-1 win.

Live stream 

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International Soccer Association (UPSL)
5:3
West Palm Beach Academy CF (National Soccer Leagues / USSSA)
Broward College-South Campus; Pembroke Pines, FL

For the second straight qualifying tournament, the International Soccer Association (ISA) began with a win over a Palm Beach team. Last year, they blanked the Palm Beach Breakers, 4-0 to kick off their qualifying run. This year, they defeated West Palm Beach Academy CF, 5-3.

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OC Kings FC (UPSL)
at
Capo FC (NISA Nation / USASA)
Capo FC advances after OC Kings FC forfeited due to lack of player availability
Lake Forest Sports Park; Lake Forest, CA

OC Kings FC only had 14 eligible players entering their Open Cup qualifying debut over the weekend. Certainly not an ideal number of players, but enough to play. Unfortunately, three of those players were goalkeepers and two of them were injured. So without a full roster, OC Kings FC forfeited. However, the two teams still played a friendly on Sunday anyway.
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Trojans FC (UPSL)
1:3
Orange County FC (UPSL)
Duarte High School; Duarte, CA
MATCH VIDEO

Despite an equalizer in the first half, Orange County FC was able to prevail over fellow UPSL club Trojans FC with a final score of 3-1. Orange County FC opened the scoring, broke the deadlock with a penalty kick, and then added a third goal shortly before halftime. Trojans FC were unable to affect the scoreline in the second half, failing to qualify for the tournament in their fifth attempt.