US Open Cup Qualifying

This weekend kicks off the largest round of qualifying games in the Modern Era (1995-present) of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. The 22 winners from September’s opening round will join 96 teams that received byes. The grand total: 118 teams playing 59 matches spread out from Friday to Sunday. Beginning with Friday’s lone game between Western Mass Pioneers and Atletico Boston, 21 games will be played on Saturday, Oct. 11 and the remaining 37 will kick off on Sunday, Oct. 12. 

The 59 winners will join five clubs who received double byes to start qualifying in the Third Round on the weekend of Nov. 1 and 2. 

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You can call them the “Fortunate Five”: Ballard FC (USL League Two), Brockton FC United (UPSL), City Soccer FC (UPSL), Laguna United FC (UPSL), UDA Soccer (UPSL) will start in the Third Round and will only need to win twice to earn a spot in next year’s Open Cup. From there 32 teams will meet in 16 “Win and You’re In” contests on Nov. 22 and 23.

Already waiting in the 2026 Open Cup field are 2025 National Amateur Cup winners West Chester United SC, UPSL Spring champions Tennessee Tempo FC and 2025 John Motta Trophy Winner (2025 Open Division prize money winner) El Farolito SC.

Follow live updates from every game this weekend on X (Twitter) and Blue Sky – @USOpenCup.

Find the full weekend schedule with a brief profile bio of each team below:

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10

Western Mass Pioneers (USL League Two)
vs.
Atletico Boston (BSSL/USASA)
Lusitano Stadium; Ludlow, MA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Western Mass Pioneers
Ludlow, MA

The Pioneers have made 13 appearances in the Open Cup in the Modern Era, six as a pro club (1998-2009) and seven on the amateur side (2011-2014). They are 7-10-3 (0-3 PK) all-time in the tournament proper. This is their first-ever foray into Open Division qualifying, having just missed the cut for the nine automatic bids USL League Two received for 2026. The Pioneers finished 10-1-3 in USL League Two Northeast Division play.

Atletico Boston
Boston, MA

Formerly known as Southie FC and Boston United, Atletico won promotion from the Bay State Soccer League 3rd tier up to the top league in 2022 and 2023. Renamed Atletico Boston, the club won the Massachusetts State Cup and the Massachusetts Soccer Champions Cup in 2024. As Southie FC they entered Open Division qualifying four times from 2016-2019, qualifying once in 2016. Atletico are currently 7-4-0 in the ongoing BSSL Division 1 season, and have reached the 2025 BSSL McKenzie Cup Final vs. CD Faialense.

Protagonist Soccer: Under the Lights-Atletico Boston

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11

Vereinigung Erzgebirge Majors (USL of PA/USASA)
vs.
Colonial SC (USL of PA/USASA)
Vereinigung Erzgebirge Clubhouse; Warminster, PA
Kickoff: 2:30 p.m. ET

Vereinigung Erzgebirge
Warminster, PA

VE has entered every edition of qualifying since it was revamped. VE qualified once in 2002 and again in 2024. Last year they reached the final round of qualifying, where they lost to West Chester United 2-1. VE are one of the older clubs in the qualifying field, playing their first game in 1934. VE finished 9-3-0 in the USL of Pennsylvania’s 2024-25 season. VE defeated Colonial 3-1 on June 1 in USL of PA, avenging a 6-0 loss to Colonial last October in National Amateur Cup play.

VE started 2026 qualifying with a 2-1 win over Vidas United of the APSL. Antoine Hoppenot and Derek Antonini scored VE’s goals in the opening 29 minutes, and goalkeeper Steve Paul saved a Vidas penalty in the second half.

Colonial SC
Blue Bell, PA

Colonial SC are back for their third run at Open Cup qualifying, having been ousted after one game each time. The Ukrainian Nationals eliminated Colonial in 2024 3-1 (after extra time). Colonial ended the USL of Pennsylvania season 7-4-1.

Colonial opened its 2026 qualifying run with a 3-0 win over Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals of the NPSL. John Underwood scored twice and assisted on a second half goal by Oliver Whitham. It was the first qualifying win for Colonial after a pair of one-and-done efforts in 2024 & 2025.

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Christos FC (APSL/USASA)
vs.
Baltimore City FC (MSSL/USASA)
North County High School – Glen Burnie, MD 
Kickoff: 3 p.m. ET

Christos FC
Baltimore, MD

Christos have qualified for the Open Cup four times, though the 2020 effort was nullified by a canceled tournament. In their Open Cup debut in 2017, they reached the Fourth Round where they took a 1-0 lead over D.C. United, gaining national attention from several major sports media outlets. Christos finished 7-5-2 in the APSL Mid-Atlantic Conference.

Christos got their current qualifying run off to a fantastic start, overwhelming Patuxent FA of the APSL 8-0. Christos jumped out to a 4-0 by halftime, with Jacob Bender notching two goals and an assist, and Brian Graham scored three straight goals in the second half. Elijah Belcher, Daniel Baxter and Edixon Moreira rounded out the scoring.

Baltimore City FC
Baltimore, MD

Baltimore City are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying. BCFC finished 5-2-3 in Maryland Super Soccer League Division 2, winning a promotion playoff to Division 1. They also fielded a team in the APSL Mid-Atlantic Conference for the 2024/25 season, finishing 10-3-3.

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Mint Hill FC (UPSL)
vs.
SCU Heat (UPSL)
Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park; Mint Hill, NC
Kickoff: 3 p.m. ET

Mint Hill FC
Mint Hill, NC

Mint Hill are attempting to qualify for the Open Cup for the fourth straight year. Last year they gained their first qualifying win over the Heat, 1-0 in the Second Round. They were then eliminated via PKs by Dalton United after a 0-0 draw. Mint Hill finished 9-3-0 in the North Carolina Soccer League and are playing in the UPSL for the Fall season.

SCU Heat
Columbia, SC

SCU Heat will be looking to avenge being ousted from last year’s qualifying tournament by Mint Hill 1-0 in their opening game. It marked the first time in four attempts that SCU did not at least reach the Final round of qualifying, having made the cut in 2024. SCU finished 7-3-0 in the UPSL Mid-Atlantic South division. SCU defeated Mint Hill 2-1 on September 28 during the UPSL Fall season.

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O’Shea’s FC (USSL/USSSA)
vs.
FC Florida (NPSL)
Gaines Park; West Palm Beach, FL
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET

O’Shea’s FC
West Palm Beach, FL

O’Shea’s FC are participating in their fourth straight Open Cup qualifying tournament. In 2024 and 2025, they won their opening game before being eliminated in the following round. O’Shea’s finished in 6-3-1 USSL South Florida spring season.

FC Florida
Hobe Sound, FL

FC Florida are making their qualifying debut after missing the cut on one of the NPSL’s automatic bids. Club founder John Textor is a majority shareholder with several major clubs, including Botafogo (Brazil), Olympique Lyonnais (France), and RWDM Brussels (Belgium). FC Florida finished 3-5-2 in the NPSL Gulf Coast Sunshine Conference.

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Parkland SC (UPSL)
vs.
Florida FC (UPSL)
Terramar Park; Parkland, FL
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Parkland Soccer Club
Parkland, FL

Parkland is making their second attempt at qualifying after debuting last year. In 2025, they managed to win their opening game before being eliminated in the Third Round.

Parkland finished 6-6-1 in the UPSL Florida South division. Parkland and FFC faced each other on May 25 during the UPSL Spring season, resulting in a 1-1 draw

Florida Futbol Club
Miami Gardens, FL

Florida Futbol Club are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying. FFC finished 7-4-2 in the UPSL Florida South division.

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CD Faialense  (BSSL/USASA)
vs.
Project Football (APSL/USASA)
Miller Field – Winthrop, MA
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

CD Faialense
Cambridge, MA

2025 qualifiers CD Faialense are back to make it two in a row and are participating in their third straight qualifying tournament. Faialense are 7-4-2 in the ongoing Bay State Soccer League Division 1 season and lost 2-1 in the 2025 BSSL McKenzie Cup Semifinals to fellow Open Cup qualifying participants Atletico Boston.

Project Football
Salem, MA

Project Football return for their second attempt at Open Cup qualifying after making their debut last year. In 2025, they advanced to the Third Round where they were eliminated 4-1 by CD Faialense, their Second Round opponents this year. Project Football finished 7-6-1 in the 2024-25 APSL Mayflower Conference.

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Omaha Street FC (UPSL)
vs.
Iowa Demon Hawks (NPSL)
Blackburn High School; Omaha, NE
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Omaha Street FC
Omaha, NE

Omaha Street FC makes its qualifying debut and are affiliated with Boston Street FC, who entered qualifying from 2023-2025. Omaha Street finished 7-1-2 in the UPSL NE-SD-IA division and reached the UPSL Round of 32.

Iowa Demon Hawks
Des Moines, IA

The Demon Hawks, formerly known as Des Moines United, are making their qualifying debut. The club began as a futsal team in 2017 and began fielding an outdoor team in 2021 in the UPSL. They also play in the Major Arena Soccer League 2. The Demon Hawks finished 4-5-1 in NPSL North Conference.

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ASC New Stars (HFA/USASA)
vs.
SVD Beaumont (UPSL)
Albion Hurricane Turf Field; Houston, TX
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
UPDATE: Match was moved from Bayland Park in Houston to Albion Hurricane Turf Field in Houston

ASC New Stars
Houston, TX

ASC New Stars are making their second attempt at Open Division qualifying after going one and done last year. ASC (Aria Soccer Club) are no strangers to the Open Cup, having qualified three times (2008, 2011, 2012) before Open Division qualifying was re-organized in 2016. The New Stars finished 11-2-5 in Houston Football Association, and reached the Region III Final of the National Amateur Cup.

SVD Beaumont
Beaumont, TX

SVD Beaumont are making their first attempt at Open Cup qualifying. Also known as SVDBMT, the club has a partnership with German 2. Bundesliga club SV Darmstadt 98. Beaumont finished 4-4-2 in the UPSL Texas South division.

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Briar United FC (UPSL)
vs.
Greenville United FC (NPSL)
Pleasant Park; Apex, NC
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Briar United FC
Raleigh, NC

Briar United FC are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying and finished 1-7-2 in the UPSL Mid-Atlantic North division.

Greenville United FC
Greenville, NC

Greenville United are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying after missing the cut for one of the NPSL’s automatic berths. FGUFC finished 3-4-3 in NPSL the Southeast Conference.

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Capital City Islanders (UPSL)
vs.
MoCo 1776 FC (UPSL)
Skyline Sports Complex (City Island); Harrisburg, PA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Capital City Islanders
Harrisburg, PA

Briar United FC are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying and finished 8-2-1 in the UPSL Division 1 Northeast American (South), the second tier of the UPSL. The Islanders moved up to the UPSL Premier Northeast American South for the Fall season. The Islanders play at the Skyline Sports Complex, once home to the defunct Harrisburg City Islanders, a club that had a rich Open Cup history with five upsets of MLS teams on its resume.

MoCo 1776 FC
Montgomery County, MD

After a year off MoCo 1776 FC have returned to Owen Cup qualifying. In their debut effort in 2024 Moco lost their one game to DCFC 1-0. MoCo stands for Montgomery County and 1776 is the year the county was founded. MoCo finished 2-5-3 in the UPSL DMV North division.

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FC Monmouth (TLfC/USASA)
vs.
Bulldogs SC (UPSL)
Count Basie Park; Red Bank, NJ
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

FC Monmouth
Red Bank, NJ

Founded in 2017, Monmouth are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying. Monmouth called the NPSL home from 2018-2024 before moving to the newly-formed The League for Clubs in 2025. Monmouth finished 8-2-1 in TLfC Northeast conference.

Protagonist Soccer: Who Are Ya!: FC Monmouth

Bulldogs SC
East Brunswick, NJ

The Bulldogs are taking their first crack at Open Cup qualifying this year. Bulldogs SC finished 1-6-3 in the UPSL Northeast American South division.

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SC Vistula Garfield (APSL/USASA)
vs.
Ironbound SCP (UPSL)
Garfield High School; Garfield, NJ
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

SC Vistula Garfield
Garfield, NJ

SC Vistula Garfield are making their fifth qualifying appearance in a row, and came closest to qualifying in 2022, when they were beaten by Lansdowne Yonkers 2-0 in the final round. Founded in 1952, Vistula have entered the Open Cup off and on since the early 1970’s. Vistula finished 6-11-8 in the 2024/25 EPSL Metropolitan Conference season.

Ironbound SCP
Newark, NJ

Founded in 1983, Ironbound are making their Open Division qualifying debut. The name Ironbound comes from The Ironbound, the name of a neighborhood in Newark’s East Ward.

Ironbound finished 3-2-5 in UPSL Northeast American (South) division.

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Grove United (NPSL)
vs.
Alexandria Reds (UPSL)
Godwin High School; Richmond, VA
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

Grove United 
Richmond, VA

Grove United are making their first attempt at Open Cup qualifying and finished 5-3-2 in the NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference. Grove United played to a 1-1 draw with Alexandria on June 8 in NPSL play.

Alexandria Reds
Alexandria, VA

The Reds are making their second entry into Open Division qualifying after their debut last year. In 2025 they were eliminated by qualifiers Virginia Dream FC 2-1 after extra time in the Second Round. Alexandria finished 6-4-0 in UPSL DMV South-A. The Reds also field a team in the NPSL where they finished 5-4-1 last season.

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Bold City SC (UPSL)
vs.
Stetson FA (UPSL)
Fort Family Park; Jacksonville, FL
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

Bold City SC
Jacksonville, FL

Bold City SC are attempting Open Cup qualifying for the first time. The name Bold City comes from one of Jacksonville’s nicknames, The Bold New City of the South. Bold City finished 6-4-0 in the UPSL Florida – Central Zone 1 division.

Stetson FA
DeLand, FL

This is the first Open Division qualifying appearance for Stetson FA. Stetson finished 0-8-3 in UPSL Division 1 Florida Central Zone 2, the second tier of the UPSL

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Fort Myers City FC (SPL/USSSA)
vs.
Florida Badgers FC (IUPSL)
Babcock Ranch; Punta Gorda, FL
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Fort Myers City FC
Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers City are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying. Most recently, Fort Myers won the Soccer Premier League Summer Cup.

Florida Badgers FC
Boynton Beach, FL

The Badgers are making their Open Cup qualifying debut and finished 10-0-1 in the UPSL Division 1 Florida South Zone 3 division. They have moved up to the UPSL Premier for the Fall season.

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StrikerZ DFW SC (MPPL/USSSA)
vs.
Dallas Atletico (DSA/USASA)
Ron Poe Stadium – McKinney, TX 
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

StrikerZ DFW Soccer Club
Allen, TX

Strikerz return to Open Cup qualifying after a one-and-done effort in their debut last year and play in Dallas’ Metroplex Premier League.

Dallas Atletico
Dallas, TX

Dallas Atletico are making their Open Division qualifying debut, not to be confused with Atlético Dallas, an expansion club set to begin in the USL Championship in 2027.

Atletico pulled off one of the surprise results in the opening round of qualifying, knocking off two-time open Cup qualifiers FORO SC 3-1. Oscar Ocampo scored two goals for Atletico and assisted on the other.

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Tulsa Athletic (TLfC/USASA)
vs.
Denton Diablos (MPPL/USSSA)
Athletic Community Field; Tulsa, OK
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Tulsa Athletic
Tulsa, OK

Tulsa Athletic are one of the regular qualifiers from the amateur ranks. While this is their second attempt at qualifying though the Open Division tournament, they’ve advanced to the Open Cup proper seven times, six of those under the NPSL banner, and last year as a UPSL club. Athletic have a run of qualifying four times in a row (2022-2025). This year they finished 7-4-1 in the inaugural season of The League for Clubs, and lost in playoff Semifinals to Metropolitan Oval Academy, 3-2.

Tulsa had an easy time in the opening round, rolling over the UPSL’s Bartlesville Buffaloes 6-0. Six different players scored for Tulsa.

Denton Diablos
Denton, TX

The former NPSL club qualified for the canceled 2020 Open Cup through the NPSL, where they played from 2019-2024. In 2025, the Diablos moved to USL League Two where they posted a 7-4-1 record in the Mid-South Division. Denton are entering qualifying through the Metroplex Premier League where their Under-23 team, Denton Diablos Estudiantes, plays.

Denton opened their 2026 qualifying campaign with a 6-2 victory over Sporting NTX of the UPSL. Newcomer Jay Lee led the way with a pair of goals.

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Woodland FC (TSL/USCS)
vs.
BOHFS St. Louis (MWPL/USASA)
Shawnee Mission District Stadium; Mission, KS
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Woodland FC
Overland Park, KS

Woodland are back for a second go at qualifying after their debut last year. They’ll be looking to redeem themselves after last year’s 8-0 loss to Tulsa Athletic. Woodland finished 13-1-4 in The Select League.

BOHFS St. Louis
St. Louis, MO

BOHFA are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying this year. BOHFA finished 6-3-1 in the Midwest Premier League Gateway Conference.

Protagonist Soccer: Who Are Ya!: BOHFS St Louis

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Deportivo Lake Mary FC(UPSL)
vs.
Emerald FC Orlando (UPSL)
Lake Mary High School; Lake Mary, FL
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Deportivo Lake Mary FC
Lake Mary, FL

Deportivo are back for their seventh straight attempt at qualifying. Lake Mary have yet to win a qualifying game and have been outscored 19-0 in their last four qualifying games. Deportivo Lake Mary finished 5-3-2 in the UPSL Florida Central Zone 1.

Emerald FC Orlando
Orlando, FL

Emerald FC make their first entry into Open Cup qualifying this year. Emerald finished 11-0-0 in UPSL Division 1 Florida – Central Zone 1, the second tier of the UPSL, and have moved up to the UPSL Premier for the Fall season.

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MSI Pro (UPSL)
vs.
Arlington SA Pro (UPSL)
Blair High School; Silver Spring, MD
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET

MSI Pro
Rockville, MD

MSI are back at it after their debut effort in 2025 took them to the Third Round of qualifying. MSI finished 7-2-1 in the UPSL DMV North. In the first round MSI defeated Yinz United 2-1. Yousef Barry’s first half tally and a Yinz own goal propelled MSI to the second round.

Arlington SA Pro
Annandale, VA

After a year off, Arlington SA have returned to Open Division qualifying. In their debut in 2024 they fell to Yinz United 3-2 in the opening round. Arlington SA went 8-1-1 in the UPSL DMV South-A division.

Arlington earned their first ever qualifying win with a 3-1 triumph over tournament regular Aegean Hawks FC. Miles Powell scored twice, and Jordan McMillen added a late goal for the win.

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FC Kanks (UPSL)
vs.
Harbor City FC (UPSL)
XL Soccer World; Orlando, FL
Kickoff: 8:45 p.m. ET

FC Kanks
Maitland, FL

FC Kanks are appearing in their first Open Cup qualifying tournament. Kanks finished 2-8-1 in the UPSL Division 1 Florida – Central Zone, the UPSL’s second tier.

Harbor City FC
Melbourne, FL

Harbor City FC are making their third appearance in qualifying and are going for their second straight Open Cup berth after qualifying last year via penalties over FC America CFL Spurs.

Harbor City finished 7-1-2 in the UPSL Florida Central Zone 2 division.

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United SC  (UPSL)
vs.
Edgewater Castle FC (MWPL/USASA)
Lions For Hope Sports Complex; Chicago, IL
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET

United SC
Chicago, IL

United SC are making their second qualifying appearance afte their debut last year which ended after one game, a penalty kick loss to Wisloka Chicago after a 2-2 draw. United finished 4-6-0 in the UPSL Midwest Central North division.

Edgewater Castle FC
Chicago, IL

This is the third time Edgewater has entered qualifying for the Open Cup. Both of the previous two attempts ended with losses to Chicago House AC, 3-1 in 2024 and 3-2 (after extra time) last year.

Edgewater opened their 2026 qualifying run with a 2-1 win over the UPSL’s Black Cat FC. Mounir Alami opened the scoring for Edgewater in the opening half, and Milos Vucic scored the winner with a 70th minute free kick.

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Napa Valley 1839 FC (TLfC/USASA)
vs.
FC Folsom (UPSL)
Justin Siena High School; Napa, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

Napa Valley 1839 FC
Napa, CA

Napa Valley 1839 FC are back after a failed qualifying debut last year. 1839 FC finished 13-3-1 in The League for Clubs NorCal Conference and lost in The League for Clubs Final on penalty kicks to Metropolitan Oval Academy after a 2-2 draw.

Napa kicked off their qualifying run with a 5-1 win over San Francisco Vikings of the San Francisco Soccer Football League. Ulysses Vega scored a pair of goals to pace Napa, with Dario Pavon, Oscar Ortiz and Angelo Vivian filling out the scoresheet.

FC Folsom
Folsom, CA

2024 qualifiers FC Folsom make their third qualifying appearance and are seeking to redeem themselves after being eliminated last year after just one game. Folsom finished 4-3-3 in the UPSL NorCal North division. Folsom reached the 2024 UPSL Fall Championship game.

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Next Level Soccer (UPSL)
vs.
Olympians FC (UPSL)
Highley High School; Gilbert, AZ
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

Next Level Soccer
Gilbert, AZ

After making their debut last year, Next Level are back for another shot at qualifying. Next Level finished 5-3-2 in the UPSL Arizona division.

Next Level defeated Olympians 4-3 in the Arizona Division Spring playoff final on June 25 and went on to reach the UPSL Spring season Round of 16. Next Level and Olympians played to a 1-1 draw on Sept. 7 in the UPSL Fall season.

Olympians FC
El Mirage, AZ

Olympians FC return to Open Cup qualifying after their debut last year. Olympians finished 

9-0-1 in UPSL Arizona division and defeated Next Level 2-1on April 27 in the UPSL Spring season. Olympians won the 2022 UPSL Fall Championship.

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Valley 559 FC (UPSL)
vs.
Real San Jose (NPSL)
Keith Tice Park; Fresno, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

Valley 559 FC
Fresno, CA

Valley 559 FC return to qualifying after falling at the final hurdle last year. In their first appearance in 2024 they reached the Third Round where they lost 5-3 to eventual 2024 qualifiers FC Folsom. Last year they reached the final round, losing to Inter San Francisco in a 5-4 extra time shootout. Valley finished 6-2-2 in the UPSL NorCal South division and reached the UPSL Spring season Round of 16.

Real San Jose
San Jose, CA

Real San Jose are making their seventh straight qualifying appearance and are still looking for their first win. San Jose will look to avenge their 2-0 defeat to Valley 559 in last year’s qualifying tournament. In league play, RSJ finished 1-10-1 in the NPSL Golden Gate Conference.

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12

Steel City FC (USL League Two)
vs.
FCY New York (UPSL)
Founders Field; Cheswick, PA
Kickoff: 3 p.m. ET

Steel City FC
Pittsburgh, PA

2024 Open Cup qualifiers Steel City FC are taking their first shot at Open Division qualifying after missing the cut for one of the nine automatic berths for USL League Two.

Steel City finished 8-1-3 in the USL League Two Great Forest Division. Steel City played its first five seasons in the NPSL before switching to USL League Two in 2025. Their first three seasons they played under the name Pittsburgh Hotspur.

FCY New York
Buffalo, NY

In their qualifying debut last year, FCY reached the final round before falling to CD Faialense 3-1. FCY got it’s as the Lackawanna Yemen Soccer Club in 1975. FCY finished 5-3-2 in the UPSL Western NY West division.

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Cleveland SC (NPSL)
vs.
Akron City FC (USL League Two)
North Olmsted Stadium Complex; North Olmsted, OH
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET

Cleveland SC
Eastlake, OH

Two-time Open Cup qualifiers Cleveland SC take their first shot at the Open Division tournament after failing to claim one of the automatic berths for the NPSL. In each of their Open Cup appearances in 2022 and 2023, Cleveland SC won their opening game before falling to professional teams in the following round. Cleveland finished 5-3-2 in the NPSL Great Lakes Conference.

Akron City FC
Akron, OH

After three years in the NPSL Akron City moved to USL League Two, where they failed to qualify for the 2026 Open Cup through their league performance, finishing 5-2-5 in the Great Forest Division. Akron City are among the first group of NPSL and USL League Two teams to enter Open Division qualifying.

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Majestic SC (APSL/USASA)
vs.
Atletico Buford FC (UPSL)
Ebster Park Soccer Field; Decatur, GA
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET

Majestic SC
Atlanta, GA

After a year off, Majestic are back in the Open Division qualifying tournament for a third time. Their first entry was in 2018, then again in 2024. Both times the club advanced past their opening round game before elimination. Majestic finished 15-1-0 in the 2024-25 Atlanta District Amateur Soccer League, gaining promotion to the APSL Terminus Conference.

Majestic defeated ADASL and APSL rivals Terminus FC 1-0 in an abbreviated game. Brennan Koslow scored the lone goal for Majestic, but in the 73rd minute the lights at Brook Run Soccer Fields went out, and eventually the game was abandoned in favor of Majestic.

Atletico Buford FC
Atlanta, GA

This is the qualifying debut for Atletico Buford. Buford finished 8-1-1 in the UPSL Division 1 Georgia North and moved up to the UPSL Premier Georgia division for the Fall season.

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Peak Eleven FC (MTPL/USASA)
vs.
Azteca FC (CPL/USSSA)
Pinnacle Athletic Complex; Thornton, CO
Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET

Peak Eleven FC
Superior, CO

Peal Eleven are making their fifth consecutive appearance in Open Division qualifying, beginning with their debut in 2022. The last three attempts have been one-and-done affairs and were eliminated last year by FC Denver 2-1. Peak Eleven finished 7-3-0 in the 2025 Spring Mountain Premier League season.

In their opening round games, Peak IX got by FC Denver 3-2 after extra time.

Jaime Gutierrez and Alpay Lazkano scored in normal time to give Peak a 2-0 lead, and the winning goal came six minutes into extra time.

Azteca FC
Denver, CO

Azteca are the grizzled veterans of Open Division qualifying, having entered every qualifying tournament except 2017 and 2019. Azteca qualified for the Open Cup in 2017, 2018, 2022 and 2024, and reached the final round of qualifying in 2020, 2023 and 2025. Azteca finished 7-0-1 in Colorado Premier League.

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Boulder United FC (CPL/USSSA)
vs.
Harpos FC (CPL/USSSA)
Broomfield Commons – Broomfield, CO
Kickoff: 4:30 p.m. ET

Boulder United FC 
Boulder, CO

Boulder United are back for their fourth try at Open Cup qualifying. Each time (2022, 2023, 2025) they lasted just one game before elimination. United finished 2-5-1 in the 2025 spring season of the Colorado Premier League. 

In the opening round Boulder had little trouble with CPL rivals Colorado Rovers, winning 4-0. Andre Arendt, George Munoz, Amaro Vargas scored for Boulder to go along with a Rovers own goal. 

Harpos FC
Boulder, CO

This is the tenth qualifying appearance for Harpos, having entered qualifying every year since 2016. They’ve compiled a record of 13-5-2 over that time, reaching the final round six times and qualifying three times. Last year Harpos finally made it back to the Open Cup after their only other appearance in 2016. They also qualified for the canceled tournament in 2020.

Harpos finished 7-1-0 in the Colorado Premier League and defeated Boulder United 3-2 in CPL play on March 23, and again on Sept. 28 by a score of 2-1.

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Croatia Cleveland (NCSL/USASA)
vs.
Detroit Metro FC (UPSL)
Mentor High School; Mentor, OH
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Croatia Cleveland
Cleveland, OH

Croatia Cleveland got its start in 1957 and was a regular participant in the Open Cup from the 1960s to the 1990s and over the years have competed under the names American Croatian and Croatian Rebels. Croatia’s most successful Open Cup run came in 1975 when they reached the national semifinals. Croatia Cleveland are the 2024 North Coast Soccer League Champions.

Detroit Metro FC
Metro Detroit, MI

Detroit Metro FC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut. Metro finished 4-5-1 in the UPSL Midwest East division.

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Southern Indiana FC(UPSL)
vs.
Bootleggers AC (OVPL/USCS)
Green Valley Soccer Complex; New Albany, IN
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Southern Indiana FC
Jeffersonville, IN

After a successful qualifying run last year, Southern Indiana FC are back to try for two in a row. SIFC ran the table during the UPSL spring season, going 11-0-0 in the KY-TN division. Southern Indiana began this year’s qualifying with a dominant 10-0 win over the Southern Indiana Guardians FC of the UPSL. Seven different players scored for SIFC. Led by Kellen Clegg and Nathan Brown with two each.

Bootleggers AC
Taylor Mill, KY

Bootleggers AC are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying and finished 4-5-1 in their inaugural season in the Ohio Valley Premier League.

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Miami Soccer Academy (USSL/USSSA)
vs.
River Miami FC (SPL/USSSA)
Gibson Park; Miami, FL
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Miami Soccer Academy
Miami, FL

Miami Soccer Academy has entered qualifying every year since 2022 and has played at least two games every time. In 2023 and 2024, MSA was one round away from participating in a “Win and You’re In’ game. MSA finished in 6-2-2 the USSL South Florida spring season.

River Miami FC
Miami, FL

River Miami FC returns to qualifying after a one-and-done effort in their debut last year. River play in the Miami-based Soccer Premier League, and previously played in the USSL.

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Doradus FC (UPSL)
vs.
Virginia Dream FC (UPSL)
West Springfield High School; Springfield, VA
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Doradus FC
Springfield, VA

Doradus FC are making their Open Cup qualifying debut and finished 3-4-3 in the UPSL DMV South B division. Doradus opened 2026 qualifying with a 3-0 win over Oranje FC of the DC Premier League. Kyle Welch, Milton Juarez and Geraldo Silva provided the goals for Doradus.

Virginia Dream FC
Falls Church, VA

Qualifying in their debut last year, Virginia Dream FC went on to upset the Richmond Kickers from USL League One 3-1 in the tournament proper. Virginia Dream finished 8-0-2 in the UPSL DMV South-A division, and also fielded a team in the NPSL, finishing 9-1-0.

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FC Lonestar GPSE (UPSL)
vs.
FC Omens (BSSL/USASA)
Veterans Memorial Stadium; Lawrence, MA
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

FC Lonestar Gpse
Lawrence, MA

FC Lonestar GPSE are making their initial appearance in Open Cup qualifying. GPSE stands for Global Pro Soccer Exposure. FC Lonestar finished 7-1-2 in UPSL Division 1 New England North, and have moved up to the UPSL Premier New England North for the Fall season.

FC Omens
Boston, MA

FC Omens are participating in their seventh qualifying tournament since 2016. Omens reached the final round of qualifying in 2016 and qualified for the Open Cup in 2017, where they made a run to the Third Round against the USL’s Rochester Rhinos. Omens also made the Open Cup field in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Omens are 6-5-3 in the ongoing BSSL Division 1 season.

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Camaraderie spurs Boston-based GPS Omens to US Open Cup glory

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Guerrilla FC (DCPL/USASA)
vs.
DMV Elite FC (NPSL)
The Fields at RFK; Washington, D.C.
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Guerrilla FC
Washington, D.C.

Guerilla FC returns to Open Cup qualifying after a one-and-done performance in their debut attempt last year. Guerrilla FC finished 6-2-2 in DC Premier League and won the 2024 Spring DCPL season with a 12-0-0 record.

DMV Elite FC
Howard County, MD

DMV Elite FC are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying and finished 3-5-2 in NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference.

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Miami United FC (UPSL)
vs.
Boca Jrs Miami FC (SPL/USSSA)
Oak Grove Park; Miami, FL
Kickoff: 5 p.m. ET

Miami United FC
Miami, FL 

Miami United are one of the more successful clubs in the current qualifying tournament, having made the cut the last three years (2023, 2024, 2025), as well as the canceled 2020 tournament. MUFC have also made Open Cup appearances in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2022 through the NPSL. Miami United finished 10-2-1 in the UPSL Florida South division and reached the UPSL Quarterfinals losing 1-0 to eventual champions Tennessee Tempo.

Boca Jrs. Miami FC
Miami, FL

Boca Jrs. Miami FC are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying and finished 6-2-2 in the  USSL South Florida spring season.

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Oaklyn United FC (APSL/USASA)
vs.
Scots-American Athletic Club (GSSL/USASA)
Rowan University Soccer Stadium; Glassboro, NJ
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Oaklyn United FC
Oaklyn, NJ

Oaklynd United are back for their second attempt at qualifying after their 2025 effort ended after one game. Oaklyn finished 10-6-2 in 2024/25 APSL Delaware River Conference

Scots-American Athletic Club
Kearny, NJ

The Scots-American Athletic Club, more commonly known as Kearny Scots, is the oldest club in the qualifying field, having been founded in 1895. The Scots have been involved in the Open Cup since 1915, when they reached the Quarterfinals. Kearny was also a member of the American Soccer League from 1934-1953. In more recent times the SAAC have entered Open Division qualifying just once, in 2023, and currently play in the Garden State Soccer League.

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Pinellas County United Pelicans SC (FSSL/USASA)
vs.
FC America CFL Spurs  (UPSL)
Walter Fuller Park; St. Petersburg, FL
Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET

Pinellas County United Pelicans SC
St. Petersburg, FL

The Pinellas County United Pelicans SC are making their qualifying debut and are a youth affiliate of FC Cincinnati (MLS). The Pinellas County United Pelicans SC play in the Florida Suncoast Soccer League and also field a team in the UPSL Division 1 Florida West Division, the second tier of the UPSL.

FC America CFL Spurs
Winter Park, FL

2024 Open Cup qualifiers FC America CFL Spurs are making their third straight qualifying appearance. Aside from qualifying in 2024, FC America nearly made it two in a row, falling in the final round of qualifying last year to Harbor City FC on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

FC America  finished 6-3-1 in the UPSL Florida – Central Zone 2 division and reached the UPSL Round of 32.

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Kalonji Pro-Profile (UPSL)
vs.
LSA Norcross Pro (UPSL)
Shiloh High School; Snellville, GA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
NOTE: LSA Norcross Pro formerly known as Limeno Georgia

Kalonji Pro-Profile
Lawrenceville, GA

Kalonji return to qualifying after sitting out last year. They previously entered in 2023 and 2024, winning their opening game before being eliminated in the next round. Kalonji finished 10-1-2 in the UPSL Georgia division and defeated Norcross 6-3 in UPSL Spring season play back on April 20.

LSA Norcross Pro (Formerly Limeno Georgia)
Norcross, GA

LSA Norcross Pro are making their qualifying debut and were formerly known as Limeno Georgia, changing their name at the end of the UPSL Spring season. Norcross finished 7-6-0 in the UPSL Georgia division.

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Metropolitan Oval Academy (TLfC/USASA)
vs.
Central Park Rangers FC (APSL/USASA)
Metropolitan Oval; Maspeth, NY
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Metropolitan Oval Academy
Queens, NY

Metropolitan Oval Academy are making their first attempt at Open Cup qualifying. MCA finished 12-1-1 in The League for Clubs Northeast Conference and won TLfC Championship, defeating Napa Valley 1839 FC on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

Central Park Rangers FC
New York City, NY

The Rangers return to Open Cup qualifying after making their debut last year, which ended after one game. Central Park finished 5-11-6 in the 2024-25 APSL Metropolitan Conference.

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North Georgia United (UPSL)
vs.
Potros FC (UPSL)
Riverbend Park; Dalton, GA
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

North Georgia United
Calhoun, GA

North Georgia returns to qualifying after sitting out in 2025. Their debut in 2024 lasted just one game. North Georgia finished 4-6-3 in the UPSL Georgia division.

Potros FC
Marietta, GA

Portos are making their qualifying debut this year. Portos finished 9-1-3 in the UPSL Georgia division and twice defeated North Georgia 4-1 on April 27 in the UPSL Spring season and Sept. 7 in the UPSL fall season.

UPSL Premier Division | Potros FC vs North Georgia United

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Zum Schneider FC (APSL/USASA)
vs.
Osner’s FC (UPSL)
Jack McManus Field; New York, NY
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET

Zum Schneider FC
New York City, NY

Zum Schneider are making a third straight appearance in Open Cup qualifying. Last year they reached the Third Round where they fell to Lansdowne Yonkers 3-1. Zum finished 6-11-5 in the 2024-25 APSL Metropolitan Conference season.

Osner’s FC
Brooklyn, NY

Osner’s FC are making their qualifying debut after falling short in gaining one of the automatic bids from the NPSL. Last January, Osner’s hosted 16-time Ecuadorian Serie A Champions Barcelona F.C. at Hinchcliffe Stadium in Paterson, N.J. The club is named after the father of the owner. Osner’s finished 3-5-2 in the NPSL North Atlantic Conference.

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FC Balboa (UPSL)
vs.
San Diego Internacional (UPSL)
Logan Memorial Education Campus; San Diego, CA
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

FC Balboa
San Diego, CA

FC Balboa making their second appearance in Open Cup qualifying after going one-and-done in their debut last year. Balboa finished 2-7-1 in the UPSL SoCal South division. 

San Diego Internacional
San Diego, CA

San Diego Internacional nearly made the 2025 Open Cup last year in their debut, losing 6-2 in the Final Round to Laguna United. SDI finished 7-3-0 in the UPSL SoCal South Division. San Diego defeated FC Balboa 2-0 on June 8 in the UPSL Spring season. Internacional defeated Balboa 4-0 on Oct. 5 in UPSL Fall season play.

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Hurricane FC (USSL/USSSA)
vs.
Palm Beach Flames SC (UPSL)
Seacrest Soccer Complex; Delray Beach, FL
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

Hurricane FC
Delray Beach, FL 

Hurricane FC have entered qualifying every year except 2016. They came closest to qualifying in 2020, reaching the Final Round where they lost to Miami United U-23s 4-0. The 2020 qualifying tournament was the last time Hurricane FC posted a win, going one-and-done in their last five qualifying attempts. Hurricane finished 0-9-1 in the USSL South Florida spring season.

Palm Beach Flames SC
West Palm Beach, FL 

The Flames return to qualifying after making their debut last year, where they were eliminated by eventual qualifiers Harbor City FC 5-1. Palm Beach finished 3-8-2 in the UPSL Florida South division.

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Chicago House AC (MWPL/USASA)
vs.
Wisloka Chicago (UPSL)
Benedictine University; Lisle, IL
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Wisloka Chicago
Chicago, IL

Wisloka are back for their third qualifying run after unsuccessful bids in 2024 and 2025. They were ousted by Chicago House each time by the same 2-1 scoreline. Wisloka finished 8-2-0 in the UPSL Midwest Central – North spring season. The club takes its name from Wisłoka Dębica, one of the oldest existing sports clubs in Poland having been founded in 1908.

In the First Round, Wisloka got by UPSL rivals Chicago Strikers 3-0. Artur Kielar, Oleksandr Melnyk, Michał Szaflarsk scored for the winners.

Chicago House AC
Chicago, IL

Chicago House have reached the final round of qualifying in their previous three attempts, making the cut in 2023 and 2024, and falling via penalties to Tulsa Athletic last year.

House finished 8-2-2 in the Midwest Premier League Heartland Division 1.

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Tennessee United SC (UPSL)
vs.
Eagles Sports Southaven FC (UPSL)
Station Camp HS Soccer Field; Gallatin, TN
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Tennessee United Soccer Club
Goodlettsville/Hendersonville, TN

Tennessee United are making their inaugural attempt at Open Cup qualifying. TUSC finished 5-6-0 in the UPSL KY-TN division.

Eagles Sports Southaven FC
Southaven, MS

Eagles Sports Southaven are making their qualifying debut. Southaven finished 3-1-2 in the UPSL A League Gulf Coast, the 3rd tier of the UPSL. They are believed to be the first club from the UPSL A League to enter qualifying.

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DOXA SC (APSL/USASA)
vs.
Lansdowne Yonkers FC (APSL/USASA)
Flowers Park; New Rochelle, NY
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

DOXA SC
New Rochelle, NY

Founded in 1963, DOXA have been regular participants in the Open Cup since the mid-1970s.

This is DOXA’s first attempt at Open Division qualifying. DOXA finished with a 5-12-5 mark in the 2024/25 APSL Metropolitan Conference. 

DOXA opened their 2026 qualifying run by squeezing out a 1-0 win over the UPSL’s New Jersey Alliance. Murat Calkap scored the lone goal for Doxa in the 2nd minute.

Lansdowne Yonkers FC
Yonkers, NY

Landowne Yonkers are making their ninth qualifying appearance and have reached the Open Cup proper four times, three through Open Division qualifying (2016, 2018, 2024) and again in 2022 as National Amateur Cup champions. They’re looking to return to the Open Cup after a two-year absence. Lansdowne finished 13-1-8 in the 2024/25 APSL Metropolitan Conference, finishing 3rd behind NY Pancyprian Freedoms (1st) and NY Greek Americans 2nd).

2022 Meet the Underdogs: Lansdowne Yonkers

2016 Meet the Underdogs: Lansdowne Bhoys

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New York Greek American SC (APSL/USASA)
vs.
NY Renegades FC (UPSL)
Hofstra Stadium; Hempstead, NY
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

New York Greek American SC
Queens, NY

Four-time US Open Cup champions (1967, 1968, 1969, 1974) have had a hard time in Open Division qualifying, winning just once in their six attempts. They have made the Open Cup cut six times in the Modern Era. Greek American SC finished second in the APSL Metropolitan Conference at 16-3-3, four points behind the Freedoms. 

New York Renegades
Hicksville, NY

The New York Renegades are looking to return to the Open Cup after qualifying in 2025. In their qualifying debut in 2024 they were stopped by the New York Pancyprian Freedoms in the next to last round, The Renegades finished the UPSL Northeast American spring season with a 9-0-1 mark.

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210 FC (UPSL)
vs.
Master Joga (DSA/USSSA)
STAR Soccer Complex; San Antonio, TX
Kickoff: 8:30 p.m. ET

210 FC
San Antonio, TX

San Antonio-based 210 FC are back for a second attempt at Open Cup qualifying after their debut last year. In that qualifying run they won their opening contest but lost in the following round to Houston Regals SCA. 210 FC finished 6-4-0 in UPSL Texas Central Spring                              season.

Master Joga
Dallas, TX

Master Joga are making their Open Cup qualifying debut and play in the Dallas Soccer Alliance.

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The Olympic Club (SFSFL/USASA)
vs.
Albion SC Silicon Valley (TLfC/USASA)
Negoesco Stadium (Univ of San Francisco) – San Francisco, CA 
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

The Olympic Club
San Francisco, CA

The Olympic Club was founded in 1860 and the soccer team joined the San Francisco Soccer Football League (SFSFL) in 1916. Olympic made their Open Cup debut in the 1956 tournament. Olympic won the 2025 SFSFL Premier Division with a 16-3-3 record. This is their 3rd qualifying attempt (2024, 2020), and they qualified for the canceled 2020 tournament.

In the First round, Olympic Club pushed past Norcal Shockwaves of the SFSFL 3rd tier 4-2

Alexander Weekes, Arda Bulut and Kevin Lopes scored to give Olympic a 3-0 lead, but the Shockwaves managed to make it 3-2 before Bulut scored his second goal from the penalty spot.

Albion SC Silicon Valley
Redwood City, CA 

Albion SC Silicon Valley are making their first run at Open Division qualifying and finished 5-2-5 in The League for Clubs NorCal division. Albion previously played in the Southwest Premier League, where they went 14-0-0 in the 2024/25 season

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Atletico Miami Internacional FC (SPL/USSSA)
vs.
Red Force (PFL/USASA)
Kendall Soccer Park; Miami, FL
Kickoff: 8 p.m. ET

Atletico Miami Internacional FC
Cooper City, FL

Atletico Miami Internacional return for their second shot at Open Division qualifying after their debut last year. Atletico won the Spring season of the Soccer Premier League with an undefeated record.

Red Force FC
Aventura, FL

Red Force are making their eighth appearance in Open Cup qualifying, making the final cut in 2017 and 2018. They also reached the final round last year, falling to Minami United 3-2 after extra time. Red Force finished 7-2-0 in the Premier Futbol League.

2017 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC 
2018 Meet the Underdogs: Red Force FC

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City SC San Diego (UPSL)
vs.
Rebels SC (UPSL)
Aviara Community Park; Carlsbad, CA
Kickoff: 9 p.m. ET

City SC San Diego
Carlsbad, CA

City SC San Diego return for their second attempt at Open Cup qualifying after going one-and-done in their debut last year. City finished 5-4-1 in the UPSL SoCal South division. City defeated Rebels SC twice in the UPSL Fall league, 3-1 on September 14 and 3-2 on September 28 and also prevailed 4-3 on June 18 in the Spring UPSL Socal South playoffs.

Rebels SC
Chula Vista, CA

Rebels SC are making their fifth appearance in Open Cup qualifying and return after skipping 2025, entering every year since 2020. Rebels finished 5-3-2 in the UPSL SoCal South division, and defeated City 4-3 on May 18 during the UPSL Spring season.

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Sharktopus FC (SRATS/USASA)
vs.
Bellevue Athletic FC (UPSL)
Jefferson Playfield; Seattle, WA
Kickoff: 9:30 p.m. ET

Sharktopus FC
Seattle, WA

Sharktopus are back for a third straight qualifying appearance, losing their opening game last year in a 5-4 extra time shootout with Deportivo Rose City of the UPSL. Sharktopus finished 7-3-1 in the SRATS Summer season, 6-2-1 in the Spring campaign, finishing first both times

Bellevue Athletic FC
Bellevue, WA

Bellevue Athletic are making their fourth straight qualifying appearance and are seeking their first ever qualifying win. Bellvue finished 8-1-1 in the UPSL Washington division and reached the UPSL National Round of 16 in both the Spring and Fall 2024 seasons.

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International San Francisco (SFSFL/USASA)
vs.
CF San Rafael (TLfC/USASA)
James P. Lang Soccer Field; San Francisco, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

International San Francisco
San Francisco, CA

Inter San Francisco are entering Open Cup qualifying for the fifth time. They’ve qualified in 2023 and 2025, and reached the final round in 2024. They’ve been one of the top scoring teams by far in the last three qualifying tournaments, scoring 48 goals over eight games. Starting in the SFSFL 3rd tier, ISF won promotion two straight seasons after their debut in 2022. Inter finished 9-10-3 in the SFSFL Premier Division.

CF San Rafael
San Rafael, CA

CF San Rafael are making their debut in Open Cup qualifying and finished 1-3-8 in The League for Clubs NorCal Conference.

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Irvine FC (UPSL)
vs.
Apple Valley Storm (UPSL)
Lake Forest Sports Park; Lake Forest, CA
Kickoff: 10 p.m. ET

Irvine FC
Irvine, CA

Irvine FC are taking part in Open Cup qualifying for a fourth year in a row. Last year they won their first qualifying game, 4-0 over Playmaker FC of the Southwest Premier League.

Irvine finished 3-5-2 in the UPSL SoCal South division.

Apple Valley Storm
Apple Valley, CA

Apple Valley are making their qualifying debut this year. The Storm finished 2-8-2 in the UPSL SoCal North division.

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San Ramon FC (TLfC/USASA)
vs.
Dublin Celtic FC (SWPL/USSSA)
Tiffany Roberts Field; San Ramon, CA
Kickoff: 10:30 p.m. ET

San Ramon FC
San Ramon, CA

San Ramon are making their qualifying debut this year and finished 9-4-2 in The League for Clubs NorCal Conference. San Ramon has been active since 1973 and previously played in the NPSL. 

Dublin Celtic FC
Pleasanton, CA

Dublin Celtic are making their first attempt at Open Cup qualifying and finished 7-7-0 in the Southwest Premier League

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Ariana FC (UPSL)
vs.
Bay Area United FC (UPSL)
Cayetano Park; Livermore, CA
Kickoff: 10:15 p.m. ET

Ariana FC
Dublin, CA

Ariana is making their first ever attempt at qualifying. Ariana finished 6-3-1 in UPSL Division 1 NorCal South, the second tier of the UPSL. The club was formerly a member of the Bay Area Adult Soccer League based in Berkeley, California.

Bay Area United FC
Oakland, CA

Oakland’s Bay Area United are back for their second run at Open Cup qualifying after their debut last year. Their 2025 effort ended after two games, a 4-1 defeat to Valley 559 FC. Bay Area finished 4-2-4 in the UPSL NorCal South division.

 

 

The first steps have been taken toward the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. The Open Division qualifying tournament kicked off this weekend with 22 games that featured amateur clubs that have goals of being the tournament’s next Cinderella story.

The 22 winners will advance to Round 2 which is scheduled for the weekend of Oct. 11-12. It will be the busiest qualifying weekend on record with 54 games on the docket.

Read below for a brief recap of all 22 games. Many of the games featuring volunteer reporters covering these games on-site. We are trying to raise money to pay our volunteer reporters for all of their hard work and travel costs. If you appreciate the work that goes into covering this tournament every year from the first qualifier to the championship game, join our PATREON team here.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

Edgewater Castle FC (MWPL/USASA)
2:1
Black Cat FC (UPSL)
Redmond Recreational Complex – Bensenville, IL

Edgewater Castle FC (Rooks) bested hosts Black Cat FC (BCFC) 2-1 on Saturday night to reach the second round of Open Division qualifying tournament for the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. The match, the first-ever competitive meeting between the clubs, drew 80 fans and featured near-even play in shots, fouls, and corners.

The Rooks struck first in the 22nd minute when Joshua Torres’s free-kick delivery found Mounir Alami, who headed home for the lead. BCFC responded in the 33rd, as Oladeinbo Toluwalase’s header was redirected in by Jethro Yumange to level the score.

Early in the second half, Rooks forward Qudus Lawal appeared to be fouled in the box after rounding the keeper, but no penalty was given. The decisive moment came in the 70th minute, when substitute Milos Vucic curled a free kick into the top corner for a stunning winner.

Rooks keeper Greg Stellatos preserved the lead with a crucial 81st-minute save, finishing with five stops on the night.

Afterward, head coach Duygu Erdoğan praised her squad: “My players showed a fantastic fighting spirit. Despite our absences, with their desire and determination, they managed to get through this round. But we are still at the beginning; we need to work much harder.”

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Southern Indiana FC (UPSL)
10:0
Southern Indiana Guardians FC (UPSL)
Woehrle Athletic Complex– Jeffersonville, IN

By Zach Allen-Kelly

The battle for southern Indiana was won in a decisive fashion with Southern Indiana FC (SIFC) advancing past Southern Indiana Guardians FC 10-0 in the first round of 2026 US Open Cup qualifying. SIFC is off to a strong start on their quest to qualify for the Open Cup for a second year in a row, led by braces from forwards Kellen Clegg and Nathan Brown.  The win was a team effort, with 7 different goalscorers for the boys in Teal.

The Guardians started the game strong, forcing SIFC keeper Kaiden Farrar off his line to save a 1v1 opportunity in the 2nd minute, but SIFC was able to get out to a quick 2-0 lead off a pair of set piece goals in the 5th and 13th minutes, and never let up.  The Guardians struggled all night to keep up with the pace on the wings for SIFC, who entered halftime up 5-0.

The struggles for the Guardians continued in the second half, going down to 10 players in the 54th minute after keeper Mark Christy received a red card for a challenge just outside the box.  SIFC took advantage of the extra player, scoring in the 66th, 71st, 77th, and 85th minutes to secure the 10-0 victory.

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Colonial SC (USLPA/USASA)
3:0
Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals (NPSL/USASA)
Ukrainian American Sports Center – North Wales, PA

By Matt Ralph

John Underwood had a brace in the first half and set up a second half goal by Oliver Whitham to lead Colonial SC to a 3-0 win over the 4-time US Open Cup champion Ukrainian Nationals. 

Goalkeeper Gunner Hoffman recorded the clean sheet for the visitors and Dallen Moore chipped in an assist on the second goal with a lovely ball that found the head of Underwood streaking toward goal from the right flank. 

The win was a first for Colonial SC in US Open Cup qualifying. The USL of Pennsylvania team was knocked out in the first round by league rivals Vereinigung Erzgebirge in 2024 and Ukrainian Nationals in 2023. 

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FC Bartlesville Buffaloes (UPSL)
0:6
Tulsa Athletic (TLFC)
Athletic Community Field – Tulsa, OK

By John Franchina

The Tulsa Athletic defeated FC Bartlesville Buffaloes 6-0 Saturday night in the first round of 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament at Hicks Field in Tulsa.

Erick Diaz scored in the 12th minute, off a short pass from Raffa Zaldivar, to give the Athletic an early 1-0 lead against a Bartlesville club that didn’t have any substitutes available on the bench.

A penalty kick goal by Aboubakr Diallo in the third minute of first half stoppage time gave Tulsa a commanding 2-0 lead just before halftime.

Stefan Cvetanovic had the best opportunity for Bartlesville, which reached the UPSL’s Regional Final in 2025, but Tulsa goalkeeper Bryson Reed made a nice leaping save on Cvetanovic’s blast from 20 yards out in the 63rd minute to keep it 2-0.

Then Francois Geris-Rey scored for the Athletic in the 67th minute to make it 3-0 and that pretty much clinched the triumph for the home side, which continued to wear down the sub-less Buffaloes as the game progressed.

Tulsa added three goals in the final 10 minutes to put the game away, as K.B Harris scored in the 81st minute, Joe Ruiz found the net in the 85th and Edgar Nino capped it off with a goal in stoppage time, just before the final whistle.

Tulsa, which reached the national semifinals in The League for Clubs in 2025, is looking to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for the fifth straight season. They advance to the second round of qualifying that will take place Oct. 11-12.

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Wisloka Chicago (UPSL)
3:0
Chicago Strikers (UPSL)
College of DuPage – Glen Ellyn, IL

By Michael Battista

A Windy City derby in the First Qualifying Round saw Wisloka Chicago beat the Chicago Strikers, 3-0, in a quiet Chicago suburb. The two UPSL sides both play in the league’s Midwest Central – North Conference, where Wisloka was also successful against the Strikers, beating them 3-2 in league play.

Despite being scoreless, Wisloka controlled the first half as the Strikers failed to get any shots off against the hosts. The Polish heritage side, tied culturally to one of the oldest sports clubs in their home country – Wisłoka Dębica, got on the board in the 43rd minute. A loose ball in the box was headed in by Artur Kielar to make it 1-0. In the 57th minute, former Ukrainian professional center back Oleksandr “Olek” Melnyk made it 2-0. The final nail came late when Michał Szaflarski scored a crisp, curving shot from the top of the box in the 83rd minute.

Wisloka is competing in its third straight Open Cup qualifying tournament and fell earlier this year in Round 2 of the USASA Region II Amateur Cup tournament. All three defeats came at the hands of the same team; Chicago House AC.

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Albion SC Silicon Valley (TLFC)
7:1
Eclipse Soccer Academy (UPSL)
Santa Cruz High School – Santa Cruz, CA

By Marcos Lopez 

On the evening of September 13th, 2025, Albion SC Silicon Valley thoroughly routed fellow NorCal club Eclipse Soccer Academy by a score of 7-1 in Round 1 of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying stage, with the outcome never being in doubt.

Albion showed their edge early in the match by scoring two goals within the first 10 minutes by Julio Hernandez and Anthony Tafolla respectively.

In the 35th minute, Michael Licona scored on a straight forward and ferocious attack. He would go on to have an impressive hat trick in the 69th minute in the form of a long-range free kick, and again in the 75th minute. The other goalscorers for Albion SC were Hector Orozco by penalty kick and Samuel Romero in the 89th minute via a superb cross. Cole Homer on the Eclipse side kept the game from being a complete sweep with a goal in the 76th minute.

Overall, Albion SC Silicon Valley controlled the game from its outset with their disciplined ball movement and fast-paced offense, always keeping Eclipse on the defensive. Even though the latter did get by the former’s defense, Albion SCs commanding win will carry them to the next round in their first ever bid to qualify for the 2026 US Open Cup. 

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SF Vikings SC (SFSFL/USAS)
1:5
Napa Valley 1839 FC (TLFC)
Justin Siena High School – Napa, CA

By Jim Coppock

Napa Valley handled SF Vikings tonight by a score of 5-1. Despite the scoreline, the visitors held tight through the game. The second half saw Napa’s experience controlling the events.

Dario Pavon, Ulysses Vega and Oscar Ortiz were the collective engine for the winners. The first half hour was cagey and tactical, with both sides forcing the best out of each other’s back line.

Pavon opened the scoring in the 28th minute via an assist from Ulyssess “Uly” Vega. Helper turned scorer ten minutes later from a long arcing cross from Ryan Dieter. Uly got his second just before the halftime whistle from about three yards out from Pavon.

To their credit, even after Oscar Ortiz put Napa 4 goals clear in the 50th minute, the Vikings, one of the oldest clubs in this year’s competition (est. 1922) never put their heads down. Ronald Delta-Djimasbe was able to break the shutout on a magnificent 45-yard breakaway in the 79th minute. A few minutes later, Angelo Vivan restored the 4-goal lead in the 85th minute to ensure the home side crossed the finish line.

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Vereinigung Erzgebirge (USLPA/USASA)
2:1
Vidas United FC (APSL/USASA)
John Bartram High School – Philadelphia, PA

By Josh Hakala

Open Cup qualifying regular Vereinigung Erzgebirge advanced to the Second Round with a 2-1 win over Vidas United. VE scored a pair of goals in the first 29 minutes of the game and they were able to hold on from there to get the win. Former pro Antoine Hoppenot delivered a cross to Reed Sturza who headed the ball down and Derek Antonini pounced on the loose ball and beat the keeper with a header. In the 29th minute, Antonini delivered a pass to Hoppenot who fired a shot that took a big deflection and beat the keeper.

VE captain Steve Paul kept Vidas scoreless by saving a penalty kick in the 56th minute. Less than 10 minutes later, Vidas finally broke through with a goal from Juan Polanco on a combination play but that’s as close as they would get.

VE, ,who has been playing soccer since 1934, is attempting to qualify for the third time in the Modern Era (2002, 2024). Last year, they fell one game short, losing to West Chester United in a “Win & You’re In” match. For Vidas, it was their second straight one-and-done entry into the competition.

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Christos FC (APSL/USASA)
8:0
Patuxent FA (APSL/USASA)
Liberty Sports Park– Upper Marlboro, MD

By Josh Hakala

It was a one-sided affair in Upper Marlboro, Md. as Christos FC cruised to an 8-0 win over Patuxent FA. The Baltimore-based side, best known for their battle with D.C. United (MLS) in the 2017 US Open Cup, is seeking a fifth trip to the tournament and their first since 2024.

Christos built a 4-0 lead at the halftime break and never looked back. Jacob Bender contributed two goals and an assist, while Brian Graham scored three straight goals in the second half for his hat trick. Christos also received goals from Elijah Belcher, Daniel Baxter and Edixon Moreira. Juston Rainey and Luis Soria also chipped in two assists each.

To make matters worse, a Patuxent player was shown a second yellow card in the 63rd minute to put them down to 10 men.

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Norcal Shockwaves (SFSFL/USASA)
2:4
The Olympic Club (SFSFL/USASA)

Negoesco Stadium – San Francisco, CA

By Otis Lyons

The Olympic Club defeated Norcal Shockwaves 4-2 at a foggy Negoesco Stadium in San Francisco on Sunday afternoon, led by a brace from striker Arda Bulut.

The Olympic Club were immediately on the front foot, testing Juan Morales’ net often in the first moments of the match. Despite an initial defensive stand by the Shockwaves, Alexander Weekes opened the scoring in the 17th minute. 

The Olympic Club pressed their advantage with a sweeping team move in the 22nd minute. Left back Andrew Robertson received the ball on the run and cut it back to the penalty spot, where striker Arda Bulut calmly finished to the far side of the net. Just three minutes later, the hosts made it 3-0 through Kevin Lopes.

Norcal Shockwaves made it interesting, with goals on either side of halftime. Ronaldo Nava roofed a half-volley on a looping through-ball from Rei Dorwart, before Julio Gonzales beat Kristoffer Jensson in the 54th minute to pull the Shockwaves within one goal.

Despite the unlikely comeback effort, The Olympic Club kept their cool, mitigating the Shockwaves’ chances throughout most of the second half. It took until the 80th minute for the lead to become comfortable once again, when Bulut earned a penalty and wrong-footed Morales to make it 4-2.

The Olympic Club, founded in 1860 and members of the San Francisco Soccer Football League (SFSFL) since 1916, will advance to the second qualifying round. But it proved to be harder than they may have thought. Olympic Club were champions of the 2025 SFSFL Premier Division, the first tier of the league. Meanwhile, the Shockwaves placed last in the First Division, the SFSFL’s third tier, losing each of their 18 games and earning a goal difference of -199.

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Boulder United FC (CPL/USSSA)
4:0
Colorado Rovers (CPL/USSSA)
Broomfield Commons– Broomfield, CO

By Andrew Mosier

Boulder United FC are through to the second round of local qualifying for a second consecutive year with a 4-0 win over fellow Colorado Premier League side, Colorado Rovers. Andre Arendt, George Munoz, Amaro Vargas scored goals for Boulder in the win at Broomfield Commons. Boulder played the final 19 minutes of the match with 10 men after Thomas Tapia was shown a second yellow card. 

Arendt opened the scoring at the half-hour mark, slaloming through the Rovers back line before finishing from the far post from a tight angle. Munoz doubled the lead two minutes later, capitalizing on a failed Rovers clearance. 

Arendt’s pressure after the start of the second half led to a Rovers’ own goal in the 58^th minute to make it 3-0, and Vargas made it 4-0 in the 64^th minute with a drive from inside the penalty area.

It marked the first Open Cup qualifying win for Boulder United in four tries.

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Doradus FC (UPSL)
3:0
Oranje FC (DCPL/USASA)
The Fields at RFK Campus (Field 3)– Washington, D.C.

By Josh Hakala

In a battle between two clubs making their US Open Cup qualifying debut, Doradus FC shut out Oranje FC 3-0 to advance to the second round. It was scoreless at the half but the game changed when Oranje FC’s starting goalkeeper John Canning had to leave the game due to injury. As a result, with no backup available, he had to be replaced by Daniel Perlis, the team’s right wing.

While Perlis performed admirably as an emergency backup, Doradus was able to take advantage. Around the 65th minute, Connor Robles made a run down the right wing and made a cross into the box. His cross found Kyle Welch who made a one-touch finish into the top right corner of the goal to open the scoring.

Just ten minutes later, Milton Juarez doubled the lead.. After winning a 50/50 challenge against the center back, he spotted the keeper off his line and chipped a 30-yard shot over him.

Oranje FC continued to push numbers through the middle and generated some chances. But Dorados’ goalkeeper Jack Pinson stood tall, making several clutch saves to preserve the lead and ultimately to earn the clean sheet.

Five minutes later, substitute Geraldo Silva added a third. Mirroring Juarez’s earlier effort, Silva won a contested ball 35 yards out and curled a beautiful shot over the keeper, who was again caught off his line.

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Sporting NTX (UPSL)
2:6
Denton Diablos (Metro PL/USSSA)
Alliance Park (Field 2) – Fort Worth, TX

By Josh Hakala

The Denton Diablos, a former NPSL club that recently joined USL League Two, cruised into the second round of US Open Cup qualifying with a 6-2 win over Sporting NTX. The Diablos jumped out to an early 3-0 lead with goals from Matt Albury (25th min.), Andrew Hernandez (40th min.), Waleed Cherif (43rd min.).

Sporting pulled one back in the 58th minute from the penalty spot, only to have Jay Lee restore the 3-goal advantage with a goal around the 65th minute. Lee, who was making his debut with the Diablos, added another just five minutes later. Sporting added a second goal in the 72nd minute, but it was 17-year-old Demetrius Cassius who finished off the scoring in the 85th minute.

For Denton, they take another step toward qualifying for the US Open Cup for what would be the second time. They qualified for the 2020 US Open Cup as a member of the NPSL, but that tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

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Scots-American Athletic Club (GSSL)
3:1
Real Central NJ Soccer (APSL)
Kearny High School – Kearny, NJ

By Michael Battista

Kearny Scots-American AC, the oldest club in the qualifying tournament (est. 1895), used early momentum to overcome Real Central NJ Soccer, 3-1, on a warm night in Soccertown USA. Despite only re-emerging into competitive soccer a couple months ago, the Scots were organized enough to take down a team from the much larger American Premier Soccer League.

The home side stunned the visitors when Damien Kolodziej sent a pass to Jeffery Barrenechea, who shot low enough on a fast break to beat RCNJ keeper Dan Verdal in the second minute. Two minutes later, Dwight Ceballo fed Daniel Vicente on the right side who beat the keeper to double his team’s lead.

“We started off the game off with a lot of intensity and after getting that first goal we saw they were so shaken on build-up, so Dwight did a good job reading the first pass. We all just went collectively because our tactics are when one goes we all go,” Vicente said. “So I saw the open play, read that they were hesitating, and took a shot.”

Vicente, who previously played professional soccer in the National Independent Soccer Association, says it’s great to be representing his home town team. The forward, who also currently works for the front office of the New York Cosmos in USL League One, also said it would be cool to possibly play against his bosses.

“All my bosses will come watch me play and it would be a really cool thing,” he joked.

The Scots struggled to get near the net again for the rest of the first half, minus corner kicks, while RCNJ tried to collect itself.

The second half saw RCNJ pick up the intensity, first with a yellow card to Vincenzo Pugliese. In the 55th minute, the visitors cut the deficit in half off a goal from Sean Milelli, assisted by Reed Sviben. Real Central looked posed to equalize but the emotions got the better of the team. In the 73rd minute, Pugliese took out Kearny’s Denilson Olivera with a slide while the player was out of bounds. He was shown a second yellow, forcing RCNJ to play with 10 men. Kearny took back the momentum, especially with RCNJ playing high, and scored a third in the 87th to nail the result thanks to a shot from Leandro Gonzales-Lopez, with Cebello getting a second assist.

RCNJ’s Alex Lobato was shown a straight red in the 88th, taking out Vicente near the fourth official, as RCNJ finished the game with nine men.

According to information available to TheCup.us, Sunday’s win marks the first win for either the Scots or any team from Kearny since 1951.

“This club has a lot of history and we want to bring it back, and revive it,” head coach Robert Gjoca said after the game. “How it’s gonna go, I don’t know. But we are trying our best.”

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Dallas Atletico (MPL/USSSA)
3:1
FORO SC (UPSL)
Bishop Lynch High School – Dallas, TX

By Adam Uthe

Dallas Atletico pulled off an impressive 3-1 victory over recent Open Cup darlings FORO SC thanks to a sensational individual performance from Oscar Ocampo. The Atletico center forward featured in all three goals, scoring two and assisting on the third as the visitors took down a FORO side that notched significant upset wins in the early rounds of the 2025 and 2024 tournaments.

For the first 45 minutes, it looked as if Dallas Atletico were the ones with a history of Open Cup success to their name. It took just 11 minutes before the game’s first goal to arrive. Ocampo played a clever give-and-go on the right side in transition with Jonathan Zuniga, who buried the chance from a tight angle. Atletico’s attack was focused on the right side and those same two players would combine again midway through the half, though they failed to capitalize the second time around. FORO struggled to retain meaningful possession, and Atletico took their 1-0 lead into halftime.

FORO did manage to adjust after the break and wrestled control of the match back with more consistent pressure. A free kick at the edge of the box sailed just narrowly over the crossbar and three minutes later, in the 69th minute, Luis Lara collected a pass from Fabricio Martinez near the penalty spot and leveled the score at 1-1. It looked as if the deadlock might hold, but in the 78th minute, a FORO clearance deflected off of multiple players before coming to rest halfway between Ocampo and the penalty box. The Atletico forward took his chance and rounded FORO’s keeper to go up 2-1. Ocampo saved his best for last, however, smashing a perfect strike into the far upper corner of the net from an even wider angle than Zuniga’s goal in the first half. 

Dallas Atletico coach Gerardo Acuna-Espinoza singled out Ocampo’s performance but also praised the rest of the team’s effort.

“Everybody was ready to go since Day One when I asked them to join .”

Acuna-Espinoza also felt the performance left the team feeling even more confident going into their next qualifying match.

“Of course, confidence went up. It’s a lot higher now. Great against FORO so we’re just ready to face off against the next opponent.”

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Arlington SA Pro (UPSL)
3:1
Aegean Hawks FC (APL/USASA)
Langley High School– McLean, VA

By Josh Hakala

Arlington SA Pro earned their first Open Cup qualifying win, 3-1 over qualifying regulars Aegean Hawks FC.

Arlington opened the scoring about 10 minutes into the game on a well-worked goal that came from the right wing. As the team moved up the wing, a through pass was sent on the ground into the right side of the penalty area where a player ran onto it and backheeled it to Miles Powell who one-timed it with his left foot and beat the keeper to the far post.

About 10 minutes later, an Arlington counterattack created a second goal. On the left side, they sent a ball over the top to Powell. Once he gathered the ball at the top of the box, he took a touch to his right foot and he hit a low, far-post shot that went off the inside of the post and went in. 

The Hawks were given a chance to get back in the game late in the first half. Julian Ngoh went one-on-one with a defender and gained the box from the left wing only to have the defender trip him and the referee pointed to the spot. The former William & Mary standout took the penalty kick, but Arlington Maxim Davis dove low and to his right to make the save to keep the Hawks off the scoresheet.

After numerous chances, the Hawks finally broke through in about the 65th minute. They played a corner kick on the ground to the top of the box where Ngoh met the ball with a one-timer. His shot was blocked by a defender, but the ball fell to the other side of the box where Brandon Parr blasted the ball on frame. The ball hit the under side of the crossbar and down, but the referee ruled that the ball had crossed the goalline.   

The Hawks pushed for an equalizer late in the game and Arlington took advantage with a counterattack. Arlington played a through ball to Jordan McMillen who had just one man to beat. After winning the one-on-one battle with the defender, he had only the goalkeeper to beat and he calmly finished to make the game 3-1.

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New Jersey Alliance FC (UPSL)
0:1
DOXA SC (APSL/USASA)
Flowers Park – New Rochelle, NY

By Josh Hakala

DOXA SC scored a first-half goal and the defense did the rest in a 1-0 win over the New Jersey Alliance. It was the first Open Cup qualifying entry in the Modern Era for DOXA after being regulars in the tournament in the 1960s and 1970s.

The winning goal came in the 22nd minute. Murat Calkap took a shot and then followed up and curled it past the goalkeeper from 15 yards out. Calkap, who spent three years at Wisconsin before transferring to Fordham, nestled the ball just inside of the far post for what would prove to be the game’s only goal.

Giuliano Santucci earned the clean sheet to send DOXA into the second round. 

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American Soccer Club New York (NPSL)
1:2
New York Renegades (UPSL)
SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex (Field 2) – Central Islip, NY

The New York Renegades spoiled the Open Cup qualifying debut of American Soccer Club with a 2-1 win on Sunday in Central Islip, NY. After a scoreless first half, Oscar Rivas scored a stunning goal to break the deadlock. He received a pass in the middle of the field, turned and fired a 30-yard strike over the diving goalkeeper.

The Renegades would add a second goal in the 81st minute from one of their more popular players. Rosero made a name for himself as one of the top scorers of 2025 edition of The Soccer Tournament. Rosero represented Premier League club AFC Bournemouth in the million-dollar tournament that was held in Cary, NC this past summer.     

Alberto Nieto, one of the Nieto twins from Ecuador, scored off a corner kick late in the game, but American SC would fail to find an equalizer.

The Renegades move on to the next round as they move one step closer to qualifying for the Open Cup for a second year in a row.

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FC Denver (CPL/USSSA)
2:3
Peak Eleven FC (Mountain PL/USASA)
Pinnacle Athletic Complex – Thornton, CO
After Extra Time

By Jim Coppock

In an all-Colorado affair, Peak Eleven needed 120 minutes to defeat FC Denver by a 3-2 score. The game was fiercely contested for all 120 minutes; extra time saw the same intensity as regulation.

The scoring began from the penalty spot after a reckless, bone-jarring challenge near the edge of the penalty area. It was not deemed a “DOGSO” (Denial of an Obvious Goal-Scoring Opportunity), so no sending off. Jaime Gutierrez placed the spot kick along the ground and halfway between the keeper and the post for the 1-0 lead.

In the 76^th minute, Alpay Lazkano increased the host’s lead to two with a beautifully headed ball from a free kick, deftly directing it on goal. The Denver keeper was caught flat-footed and was beaten to his near post. Four minutes later, off a quick throw-in, FC Denver’s Dominic Dennis quickly replied. From a short cross, he beat four opponents and the keeper in a goalmouth scramble.

In the 84th minute, Dennis would get his brace and set the game up for a thrilling finish. A poor touch at the top of Peak’s defensive third set up a 20-yard cross field pass that freed up Dennis at the back post, where he received an inch-perfect cross and slotted home the equalizer.

Six minutes into extra time, the only other goal would come off a headed ball. The ball went almost directly down, the bounce beat the Denver keeper and hit the lower side of the crossbar, the ball did not originally cross the line, but the spin took it back under the crossbar and in. A Denver defender hopelessly flailed to keep it out, and made contact, but he was standing inside the goal. A third goal and ultimately the winner for Peak Eleven.

With the win, Peak Eleven avenges last year’s 2-1 loss to FC Denver in the competition and takes the first step toward qualifying for the Open Cup for the first time in club history. For FC Denver, their goal of qualifying for a third time will have to wait until next year.

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Majestic SC (APSL/USASA)
1:0
Terminus FC (ADASL/USASA)
Brook Run Soccer Fields – Dunwoody, GA
Match ended in 73rd min after stadium lights went out

By Henry Higuita Jr.

In the battle between Atlanta’s two oldest competitive adult soccer teams, Majestic SC got on the better end of a 1-0 scoreline against Terminus FC.

Brennan Koslow netted the only goal of the match, hitting a first-time rocket from distance in the 30th minute to give Majestic the lead. Terminus created many threatening attacks down the left side through the dynamic duo of Asad Bashir and Jean Malilo in pursuit of an equalizer, but Majestic held strong.

Then came two big twists in the match. The first was Majestic’s Jackson Eskay getting sent off after receiving his second yellow card of the match in the 69th minute for delaying the restart of play by kicking the ball away.

However, Terminus barely had any time to capitalize on their man advantage as the lights at the field went out and the game was stopped in the 73rd minute.

According to the US Open Cup qualifying handbook: “If a match is terminated after the end of the first half of a match, but before the end of the second half with one of the teams winning, and the termination is not due to the conduct of one of the teams, the match is considered complete, and the team winning at the time of the termination shall be the winner.”

This means that Majestic SC advances to the second round of qualifying for the third time after doing so in 2018 and 2024.

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MSI Pro (UPSL)
2:1
Yinz United (APL/USASA)
Oakton High School – Vienna, VA

MSI Pro traveled to Vienna, Va. to take on Yinz United and were victorious, winning by a 2-1 scoreline.

In the 30^th minute, Francis Meyer beat his defender and raced to a ball about to cross the bye line and sent it back to the six where Yousef Barry shoveled it in for a 1-0 lead.

In the 69^th minute, MSI worked a beautiful overlapping run out of the midfield. A cross, likely looking for Barry, saw Yinz’s Mike Cherry inadvertently put the ball in his own goal, to put the visitors up 2-0.

Yinz would break the shut out in the 86^th minute. Austin Pelto was taken down from behind in the area to set up a penalty kick. The penalty kick was saved but the ball remained loose, and Kareem Najib raced in to knock the ball in to cut the deficit in half. The game ended 2-1.

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NY Pancyprian Freedoms (APSL)
0:2
NY Greek American SC (APSL/USASA)
Hofstra Stadium – Hempstead, NY

By JJ Pavlick

What should have been a celebration of New York’s rich soccer heritage instead became a cautionary tale about officiating, as the New York Greek Americans defeated the New York Pancyprian Freedoms 2-0 in a First Round matchup in the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament.

The qualifier between two teams with seven US Open Cup titles between them, was marred by controversial refereeing decisions at Hofstra University.

The matchup between these two powerhouse clubs represented one of the flaws of the tournament’s current format. With priority paid to local matchups to minimize travel costs, often finds high-level teams and local rivals meeting in the early rounds of the qualifying tournament rather than both clubs getting a chance to advance to the later rounds. These storied rivals, who boast deep histories and mutual respect built over decades of competition, deserved to meet in a Final or a Semifinal, but this year’s competition finds them meeting in the opening round.

The match began promisingly enough, with the Greek Americans capitalizing on a Pancyprian clearing error in the 8th minute. Frencesco Perinelli’s far-post header from the

ensuing corner gave the Greeks an early 1-0 advantage.

However, the contest took a devastating turn in the second half when some refereeing decisions changed the game. Starting in the 49th minute, the first controversial decision involved him issuing a yellow card to Greeks assistant coach Richard Nuttall for simply asking him to consult his assistant referee. That was followed by issuing two yellow cards to the Freedom’s Filip Jauk for minor infractions which led to his ejection in the 52nd minute.

Thirty seconds later, veteran Jimmy Nealis – brother of New York Red Bulls defenders Sean and Dylan – received a straight red card for what appeared to be a gentle push during a verbal exchange. The historic rivalry was now reduced to both teams playing with 10 men and changed the game into a funeral atmosphere in the stadium.

The four-time US Open Cup champion Greek Americans added a second goal through Roc Carles Puig in the 56th minute and the defense held on to preserve the shutout. This was some revenge for the Greeks who finished second to the Freedoms in last year’s APSL Metropolitan Conference Standings.