2026 US Open Cup

2026 US Open Cup First Round draw announced

January 27, 2026 by Michael Battista

Nashville SC celebrate after winning the 2025 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, which they will not be defending in the 2026 tournament (Credit: US Soccer)

The 111th edition of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup will kickoff in a month and a half with 32 games across three days. Beginning on March 17, 32 Open Division amateur teams, ranging from national champions to Cinderellas in waiting, will take on lower division professional teams.

The March Madness begins with 10 games on Tuesday, March 17 to kick off the 2026 US Open Cup. That will be followed by 15 games on Wednesday, March 18 before concluding with seven games on Thursday, March 19.

This is the third year in a row that every First Round match in the Open Cup be amateur versus professional.

Of the 64 teams taking part in the First Round, 32 come from the Open Division. Further breaking that down sees 10 from USL League Two (USL-2) and five from the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL). The remaining 17 teams qualified via the Open Division Local Qualifying Tournament (15), or by winning a select competition such as the USASA National Amateur Cup (West Chester United SC) or the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) Spring National Championship (Tennessee Tempo FC).

There has also been a late team substitution, as Cruizers FC (Modesto, CA) have replaced Hickory FC (Hickory, NC) for a National Premier Soccer League auto-bid. Hickory, which won the 2025 NPSL National Championship over Open Cup regulars El Farolito SC last summer, departed the league to join USL League Two during the off-season. US Soccer rules dictate that Open Division teams must remain in the league from which they qualified from, or qualified for while in, for the duration of their tournament run. As such, Hickory was removed. They are replaced by Cruizers, who joined the NPSL last season and qualified based on reaching the NPSL West Region Final (aka the National Quarterfinals) in the playoffs.

Usually, this would be based on which team from the national quarterfinals had the highest Points-Per-Game in the regular season. However Cruizers get in based on the fact that every other team around them has either already qualified via the NPSL, qualified via another method, or left the league all together.

1: Champion – Hickory FC – Left for USL-2
2: Runner-up – El Farolito SC – Qualified as 2025 John Motto Trophy winner (farthest reaching Open Division team in 2025 Open Cup)
3: Semifinalist – Ristozi FC – QUALIFIED
4: Semifinalist – Michigan Rangers FC – QUALIFIED
5: Quarterfinalist – West Chester United SC – Qualified as 2025 USASA National Amateur Cup champion
6: Quarterfinalist – Flower City Union – QUALIFIED
7: Quarterfinalist – Lubbock Matadors SC – Left for USL-2
8: Quarterfinalist – Cruziers FC – QUALIFIED

The professional sides entering in the First Round include 17 from the USL Championship (Div. 2), 13 clubs from USL League One (Div. 3) and two teams from MLS NEXT Pro (Div. 3).

The remaining USL-C, USL-1, and independent MLSNP teams will not take part in the tournament. This includes all USL-C teams that finished in the bottom half of their respective conference tables during the 2025 USL-C season. Additionally, no expansion teams from any league will take part since the qualification method for this year’s tournament was based on the 2025 regular season results.

Reserve teams are also no longer allowed again due to the newly established “one club, one entry” rule, which also requires the highest division team in a club to be entered.

The matchups were chosen geographically with the primary goal being professional teams playing against an Open Division team.

The home team for each game was determined by random selection when both teams applied to host and met the tournament’s hosting criteria. According to US Soccer’s release: “Random selection was also used in cases where there was no logical geographic fit or there were more than two teams from the same proximity.”

The winners from Round 1 will advance to face each other in the Second Round which is scheduled for the week of March 31 to April 1. The 16 Second Round winners will advance to Round 3 where they will face the 16 Major League Soccer (Div. 1) teams that lye in wait.

For the early rounds, select matches will be broadcast on Paramount+ and simulcast on CBS Sports Network or CBS Sports Golazo Network. Any matches not picked up by CBS will be broadcast on U.S. Soccer’s YouTube channel.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying
2026 US Open Cup Schedule/Results (Coming soon)
2026 US Open Cup Format

2025 U.S. Open Cup – First Round Schedule
Home team listed first, all start times listed in Eastern

TUESDAY, MARCH 17

South Georgia Tormenta FC (USL-1) vs. FC America CFL Spurs (UPSL)
6 p.m. ET
Tormenta Stadium; Statesboro, GA
BROADCAST: YouTube

Richmond Kickers (USL-1) vs. Northern Virginia FC (USL-2)
6:30 p.m. ET
City Stadium; Richmond, VA
BROADCAST: YouTube

Rhode Island FC (USL-C) vs. CD Faialense (BSSL)
7 p.m. ET
Centreville Bank Stadium; Pawtucket, RI
BROADCAST: YouTube

Vermont Green FC (USL-2) vs. Portland Hearts of Pine (USL-1)
7 p.m. ET
Virtue Field; Burlington, VT
BROADCAST: Paramount+/CBS Sports Network

Detroit City FC (USL-C) vs. Michigan Rangers FC (NPSL)
7:30 p.m. ET
Keyworth Stadium; Hamtramck, MI
BROADCAST: YouTube

Steel City FC (USL-2) vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (USL-C)
7:30 p.m. ET
Rooney Field; Pittsburgh, PA
BROADCAST: YouTube

West Chester United SC (USLPA) vs. Loudoun United FC (USL-C)
7:30 p.m. ET
YSC Sports; Wayne, PA
BROADCAST: YouTube

Colorado Spring Switchbacks FC (USL-C) vs. Azteca FC (CPL)
8 p.m. ET
Weidner Field; Colorado Springs, CO
BROADCAST: YouTube

Indy Eleven (USL-C) vs. Des Moines Menace (USL-2)
8 p.m. ET
Grand Park Events Center; Westfield, IN
BROADCAST: Paramount+/CBS Sports Golazo Network

Phoenix Rising FC (USL-C) vs. San Ramon FC (TLfC)
10 p.m. ET
Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium; Phoenix, AZ
BROADCAST: YouTube

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

Chattanooga FC (MLSNP) vs. Kalonji Pro-Profile (UPSL)
6 p.m. ET
Finley Stadium; Chattanooga, TN
BROADCAST: YouTube

Asheville City SC (USL-2) vs. Greenville Triumph SC (USL-1)
6:30 p.m. ET
Greenwood Field (UNC Asheville); Asheville, NC
BROADCAST: YouTube

Charleston Battery (USL-C) vs. Badgers FC (UPSL)
6:30 p.m. ET
Patriots Point; Mount Pleasant, SC
BROADCAST: YouTube

Louisville City FC (USL-C) vs. Southern Indiana FC (UPSL)
7 p.m. ET
Lynn Family Stadium; Louisville, KY
BROADCAST: YouTube

FC Naples (USL-1) vs. Red Force FC (PFL)
7 p.m. ET
Paradise Coast Sports Complex; Naples, FL
BROADCAST: YouTube

FC Motown STA (USL-2) vs. Hartford Athletic (USL-C)
7 p.m. ET
Lubetkin Field (NJIT); Newark, NJ
BROADCAST: Paramount+/CBS Sports Network

SC Vistula Garfield (APSL) vs. One Knoxville SC (USL-1)
7:30 p.m. ET
Garfield HS; Garfield, NJ
BROADCAST: YouTube

BOHFS St. Louis (MWPL) vs. Union Omaha (USL-1)
8 p.m. ET
Lindenwood University; St. Charles, MO
BROADCAST: Paramount+/CBS Sports Golazo Network

Little Rock Rangers (USL-2) vs. FC Tulsa (USL-C)
8 p.m. ET
Episcopal Collegiate School; Little Rock, AR
BROADCAST: YouTube

San Antonio FC (USL-C) vs. ASC New Stars (HFA)
8:30 p.m. ET
Toyota Field; San Antonio, TX
BROADCAST: YouTube

New Mexico United (USL-C) vs. Cruizers FC (NPSL)
9:30 p.m. ET
UNM Soccer Stadium; Albuquerque, NM
BROADCAST: YouTube

Sacramento Republic FC (USL-C) vs. El Farolito SC (NPSL)
10 p.m. ET
Heart Health Park; Sacramento, CA
BROADCAST: YouTube

AV ALTA FC (USL-1) vs. Valley 559 FC (UPSL)
10:30 p.m. ET
Lancaster Municipal Stadium; Lancaster, CA
BROADCAST: YouTube

Ventura County Fusion (USL-2) vs. Spokane Velocity FC (USL-1)
10:30 p.m. ET
Ventura College Stadium; Ventura, CA
BROADCAST: YouTube

Orange County SC (USL-C) vs. Laguna United FC (UPSL)
10:30 p.m. ET
Championship Soccer Stadium; Irvine, CA
BROADCAST: YouTube

THURSDAY, MARCH 19

Carolina Core FC (MLSNP) vs. Virginia Dream FC (UPSL)
6 p.m. ET
Truist Point; High Point, NC
BROADCAST: YouTube

Charlotte Independence (USL-1) vs. Ristozi FC (NPSL)
6:30 p.m. ET
American Legion Memorial Stadium; Charlotte, NC
BROADCAST: YouTube

Flint City Bucks (USL-2) vs. Forward Madison FC (USL-1)
6:30 p.m. ET
Don Batchelor Stadium; Grand Blanc, MI
BROADCAST: YouTube

Lexington SC (USL-C) vs. Flower City Union (NPSL)
7 p.m. ET
Lexington SC Stadium; Lexington, KY
BROADCAST: YouTube

Westchester SC (USL-1) vs. NY Renegades FC (UPSL)
7:30 p.m. ET
Mount Vernon Memorial Field; Mount Vernon, NY
BROADCAST: YouTube

Tennessee Tempo FC (UPSL) vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (USL-1)
8 p.m. ET
Richard Siegel Soccer Complex; Murfreesboro, TN
BROADCAST: YouTube

Laredo Heat SC (USL-2) vs. El Paso Locomotive FC (USL-C)
8:30 p.m. ET
PEG Energy Stadium; Laredo, TX
BROADCAST: YouTube

2026 US Open Cup format: FIFA World Cup shrinks 111th tournament

December 4, 2025 by Jake Sillick

Nashville SC celebrate after defeating Austin FC 2-1 to win the 2025 US Open Cup title. Photo: Laura Gallo

US Soccer announced the format for the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup with some major changes due to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the resulting two month break from MLS during said World Cup. Because of that, the competition has been reduced to seven rounds instead of eight rounds as in recent years. As a result of that, the format will only result in 80 teams instead of 96 teams in the 2025 competition, and only 48 professional teams instead of 64.

As announced last January by MLS, only 16 US based MLS teams qualify for the US Open Cup this year, with teams that are not in CONCACAF Champions Cup and Leagues Cup automatically in, then filling out the rest of the field by Supporters Shield standings, excluding teams in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

*Join our Patreon team!
* 2025 USOC Schedule/Results
* 2025 USOC Stat Leaders
* 2025 Player of Round winners
* 2026 USOC Qualifying
* 1995 USOC Rewind Series

* Subscribe to our newsletter!
* Follow TheCup.us on X (@USOpenCup)
* Follow TheCup.us on BlueSky
* Follow TheCup.us on Facebook
* Follow TheCup.us on Instagram
* Contact us HERE

All MLS teams will enter in the Third Round (Round of 32), same as in 2025. Also returning from 2025 is that eight MLS teams will be seeded as home teams in the Round of 32, with the remaining eight teams unseeded as away teams. All draws prior to that round and all draws after the Round of 32 will be done in a randomized fashion to determine hosts, if both venues meet tournament standards.

However, as a result of the shorter tournament and smaller field, the USL Championship will also have to trim its field to 17 teams. They will use league standings to select these teams, all of which will be entered in the First Round. Also technically, both Division III leagues (USL League One and MLS NEXT Pro), also used league standings as well to qualify.

Support TheCup.us and its coverage of the US Open Cup by purchasing a "US Open Cup Champions" shirt which celebrates the five teams with the most titles (pre-Modern Era). Visit THECUP.US SHOP — Support TheCup.us and its coverage of the US Open Cup by purchasing a “US Open Cup Champions” shirt which celebrates the five teams with the most titles (pre-Modern Era). Visit THECUP.US SHOP

A new rule, although it is unclear if it will be a temporary or permanent change, does not permit “expansion teams” in the US Open Cup. They must have played a league season in 2025 to be in the competition. This will disqualify teams from all three lower division leagues, but it also means that there are only 15 eligible Division III teams in total. So while the goal was to have 16 teams from each division, this meant that the USL Championship (Division II) added a 17th team to the field.

David Applegate, US Soccer’s Director of Competitions, told TheCup.us that “the reduction in professional teams was directly tied to the need for the competition to run seven rounds to fit within the footprint of the professional league schedules while avoiding conflict with the World Cup when both players and some venues will not be available.”

What is permanent is two new rule changes. There is now a “one club-one entry” rule. As far as that goes for the pro leagues, this means that the highest division team from a club must be the one that is entered. Reserve teams will no longer be allowed, but affiliated teams will be accepted as long as they are not owned by the parent club and only have contractual relationship to loan players and other such things.

The other rule change is all numerical roster restrictions have been removed. Any and all eligible, registered players, subject to league roster restrictions and cup tying rules, are allowed to compete in the US Open Cup. One such restriction by in the past is normally loaned player deals must be of 90 days or longer to be eligible. Amateur teams from the qualifying rounds have also had restrictions on the maximum number of players on their team.

“The 80-team format is custom for 2026 based on the World Cup’s impact on venues, player availability and other resources,” said Applegate. “As we’re engaging our stakeholders on the format for 2027, we’ve heard from the leagues, teams and fans across all divisions that they want to be in the US Open Cup – so we’ll be starting from a place that accommodates expanded participation.

The schedule for the 2026 US Open Cup avoids all dates of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, and will be down to the semifinalists by late May, before finally resuming with the final matches in September. The final will be Oct. 21.

2026 LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP SCHEDULE

First Round: Tuesday, March 17 – Thursday, March 19

Second Round: Tuesday, March 31 – Wednesday, April 1

Round of 32: Tuesday, April 14 – Wednesday, April 15

Round of 16: Tuesday, April 28 – Wednesday, April 29

Quarterfinals: Tuesday, May 19 – Wednesday, May 20

Semifinals: Tuesday, Sept. 15 – Wednesday, Sept. 16

Final: Wednesday, October 21

The full list of teams can be found below, along with the qualifying criteria. This will be the second year in a row that the defending champion will not be allowed to defend the title, as the champion is entered in the Concacaf Champions Cup and is thus excluded from the field.

Division I – 16 Teams entering in the Round of 32

Major League Soccer

Qualifying Criteria:

Teams participating in Concacaf Champions Cup are excluded from the Open Cup
Teams not participating in the 2026 Leagues Cup qualify for the Open Cup, ranked based on 2025 Supporters Shield Standings. The top four teams from this list from each conference will be seeded as home teams.
The next best teams in the Supporters’ Shield Standings that are not in the Concacaf Champions Cup will enter the Open Cup.

Atlanta United FC
Austin FC
Charlotte FC
Chicago Fire FC
Colorado Rapids
Columbus Crew
D.C. United
Houston Dynamo FC
Minnesota United FC
New England Revolution
New York City FC
Orlando City SC
Red Bull New York
San Jose Earthquakes
St. Louis CITY SC
Sporting Kansas City

Division II – 17 teams entering in First Round

USL Championship

Qualifying Criteria:

2025 League Standings will be used to determine Open Cup qualifiers.
Positions allocated evenly between East & West Conferences based on conference standing, with total points serving as a tiebreaker in the case of an odd number of teams.

Charleston Battery
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
Detroit City FC
El Paso Locomotive FC
FC Tulsa
Hartford Athletic
Indy Eleven
Lexington SC
Loudoun United FC
Louisville City FC
New Mexico United
Orange County SC
Phoenix Rising FC
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Rhode Island FC
Sacramento Republic FC
San Antonio FC

Division III – 15 teams entering in the First Round

MLS NEXT Pro

Note: Players from 15 MLS NEXT Pro teams affiliated with Division I entrants may appear in the competition for their MLS Division I affiliate in the Round of 32 (subject to competition roster regulations).

MLS NEXT Pro teams that are part of a club that plays in Division I Major League Soccer are not eligible based on the one club, one entry principle.
Because fewer than 16 teams participating in 2026 Division III leagues have results in the 2025 League Standings, both returning, eligible teams will qualify.

Carolina Core FC
Chattanooga FC

USL League One

Qualifying Criteria:

Because fewer than 16 teams participating in 2026 Divison III leagues have results in the 2025 League Standings, all 13 returning teams otherwise eligible teams from the 2025 season will qualify.

AV ALTA FC
Charlotte Independence
Chattanooga Red Wolves SC
FC Naples
Forward Madison FC
Greenville Triumph SC
One Knoxville SC
Portland Hearts of Pine
Richmond Kickers
South Georgia Tormenta FC
Spokane Velocity FC
Union Omaha
Westchester SC

Open Division/Amateur – 32 teams entering in the First Round

Qualifying Criteria:

Half of the Open Division slots have been allocated to teams advancing from the Qualifying Rounds played in Fall 2025.
Half of the Open Division slots have been filled with teams awarded byes into the First Round based on strong performance in 2025 competitions.

2026 Qualifying Rounds Participants (16)

ASC New Stars (Houston, Texas; Houston Football Association)
Azteca FC (Denver, Colo.; Colorado Premier League)
Badgers FC (Boynton Beach, Fla.; UPSL)
BOHFS St. Louis (Saint Louis, Mo.; Midwest Premier League)
CD Faialense (Winthrop, Mass.; Bay State Soccer League)
FC America CFL Spurs (Orlando, Fla.; UPSL)
Kalonji Pro-Profile (Dacula, Ga.; UPSL)
Laguna United FC (Laguna Niguel, Calif.; UPSL)
NY Renegades FC (Jericho, N.Y.; UPSL)
Red Force FC (Miami, Fla.; Premier Futbol League)
San Ramon FC (San Ramon, Calif.; The League for Clubs)
SC Vistula Garfield (Garfield, N.J.; APSL)
Southern Indiana FC (Corydon, Ind.; UPSL)
Steel City FC (Pittsburgh, Pa.; USL League Two)
Valley 559 FC (Fresno, Calif.; UPSL)
Virginia Dream FC (Arlington, Va.; UPSL)

Earned Byes to First Round via League/Competition Play (16)

Asheville City SC (Asheville, N.C.) – USL League Two Qualifier
Des Moines Menace (Des Moines, Iowa) – USL League Two Qualifier
El Farolito (NPSL – San Francisco, Calif.) – 2025 John Motta Trophy Winner
FC Motown (Morristown, N.J.) – USL League Two Qualifier
Flint City Bucks (Flint, Mich.) – USL League Two Qualifier
Flower City Union (Rochester, N.Y.) – NPSL Qualifier
Hickory FC (Hickory, N.C.) – NPSL Qualifier
Laredo Heat SC (Laredo, Texas) – USL League Two Qualifier
Little Rock Rangers (Little Rock, Ark.) – USL League Two Qualifier
Michigan Rangers (Hudsonville, Mich.) – NPSL Qualifier
Northern Virginia FC (Leesburg, Va.) – USL League Two Qualifier
Ristozi FC (Baltimore, Md.) – NPSL Qualifier
Tennessee Tempo FC (Murfreesboro, Tenn.) – UPSL Spring Champion
Ventura County Fusion (Ventura, Calif.) – USL League Two Qualifier
Vermont Green FC (Burlington, Vt.) – USL League Two Qualifier
West Chester United SC (West Chester, Pa.; USL of Pa.) – 2025 USASA National Amateur Cup Champion

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Stoppage time goals send NY Renegades past Zum Schneider, back to USOC

November 25, 2025 by Dave Einhorn

NY Renegades celebrate after defeating Zum Schneider FC 4-2 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: NY Renegades

The New York Renegades defeated Zum Schneider 4-2 on Sunday night to clinch the club’s second straight US Open Cup berth. The Renegades were heavily favored, but both sides contested well: trading goals, well-timed shots, and hard tackles throughout the 90 minutes.

After the match, New York Renegades founder and manager Boris Linares credited his team for their hard work throughout the tournament.

“Any team can give you a battle, and everybody comes at us hard. Everybody plays a hell of a game,” Linares said. “They didn’t come to roll over … and I expect my players to know that, but they responded.”

Renegades drew first blood with an excellent goal from Junior Rosero. A long ball from the halfway line bounced once in front of Rosero, who had a defender challenging him for the ball and his back to goal. Rosero used his skill, touch — and some yoga moves — to spin his defender and toe-poke the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper.

The goal was a step in the right direction for the Renegades, but their lead wouldn’t last long.

Moments later, Tomas de Andrade Gomes was left unmarked at the back post and was able to slide in and redirect a cross into the net. The response was swift, the slide was stylish, and the equalizer signaled it was game on.

While the referee didn’t have a significant influence on the match, he did make a few important calls. Several crunching tackles and late challenges lead to yellow cards.

The most controversial of the first half came in the 31st minute as Zum Schneider’s Jason Budhai received the ball on the right at the top of the box. He executed some swift step-overs before coming into contact with the Renegades’ Cristian Garcia. Despite the foul and goal-scoring opportunity, Garcia did not receive a yellow card, which would have been his second. The referee was consistent in calling fouls and issuing cards, but the nature of the match changed nearly instantly.

The second half mirrored the first with the same sense of battle, grit, and now, urgency with the match tied at 1-1.

The Renegades once again took the lead early in the half as a cross from the right was smashed home by an unmarked Samuel Caceres to make it 2-1.

Gomes would answer after he found himself in space and saw his shot deflected. Still, a poor clearance set up a perfect volley for Gomes, who once again equalized at 2-2. Fans of Zum Schneider in attendance exploded with flags and songs in support.

When all signs pointed to extra time, the Renegades found the breakthrough. They scored not one, but two late goals to ensure they would move on to the 2026 US Open Cup.

The first came from Eric Turcios, who got a touch on a low cross from Garcia. Turcios had been out injured, didn’t start the match, but had the crucial touch that sealed the win. Turcios is making a name for himself in scoring dramatic late winners, as he had also scored a late winner against the NY Braveheart to send the Renegades to the UPSL National Finals.

Zum Schneider had four minutes to find some Open Cup magic. They made quick substitutions and did their best to get into an attacking position. It was clear that going for the equalizer would leave them exposed, as Sebastian Ruiz got free on the left and hit the post.

Zum Schneider’s tired legs and broken hearts were starting to show as Ruiz once again got free in a similar area and this time did not miss the far corner. He left the goalkeeper rooted to his spot, Zum Schneider’s dreams dashed, and sent his team into pandemonium with the final score to make it 4-2.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: San Ramon FC earns first USOC berth after foggy win vs. Olympic Club

November 25, 2025 by Abram Heredia

San Ramon FC celebrates after defeating The Olympic Club 2-1 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: TJ Valenton

The fog was thick, and so was the tension in the stands as San Ramon FC narrowly emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Olympic Club to punch its ticket to the 2026 US Open Cup for the first time in club history.

Olympic looked threatening from set pieces throughout the match, but it was the goal in the fifth minute that showed just how dangerous they could be.

A wide free kick found the head of Andrew Ellis, who knocked it down for Kaya Fabbretti. Fabbretti took full advantage of his opportunity and finished with a half volley at close range, giving his side the early lead.

An external factor that ended up having a big effect on this match was the rampant fog. Those among the crowd complained often about not being able to see the play happening on the far side of the field. In no moment was the fog more impactful than in the 22nd minute, when SRFC midfielder Roberto Gonzalez took advantage of the limited visibility and blasted his free-kick straight into the center of the goal. The Olympic keeper strafed to his right as the kick was taken, then watched as the ball went in where he had just been standing.

When asked about whether or not the heavy fog was a factor for his team, SRFC Head Coach Bejam Esmaili said it was.

“Because the way we play, we like to keep the ball, we like to switch play, we like to go to the other side,” Esmaili said. “When you can’t see the other side and you don’t know you have a player available … it’s an effect.”

Just before halftime, Olympic Club demonstrated its set-piece prowess yet again with a free kick from Daniel Kirkland, once more making its way to Ellis in the box, but it was not to be, and the score remained 1-1.

Though SRFC played a possession-oriented game, Olympic Club proved to be a very formidable counter to its style of play. The midfield pairing of captain Stefan Clemmens and Kirkland, who exhibited a powerful combination of experience and physicality, was complemented by winger Kaya Fabbretti, who offered blistering pace in counterattacks.

San Ramon FC and The Olympic Club line up for pre-game introductions ahead of a final round match in the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Abram Heredia

Once the fog began to clear, SRFC started to find rhythm.

In the 58th minute, 19-year-old Carver Jensen latched onto a poor clearance from the defender and drove at the off-balance defence. Jensen sized up his man before cutting in sharply from the left and expertly placing the ball into the far bottom corner. A composed finish from Jensen — despite being the youngest player on the pitch — to score what would ultimately be the winning goal. Jensen continues his streak of getting at least one goal contribution in his last three US Open Cup appearances.

Fog or not, what is clear is that as a result of this match, San Ramon FC qualifies for the US Open Cup for the first time.

The fog was real last night, and rare for that field.

2 hours before kickoff, skies were clear. @KarlTheFog are you a @opencup #soccer fan?

😶‍🌫️ descended quickly onto the pitch before kickoff and lingered for 30ish minutes.

📸 @tjvpix @usopencup @zimpix #SanRamonFC https://t.co/x34wtgUNjV pic.twitter.com/crcy5mxyxF
— San Ramon FC ⚽️ (@SanRamonFC) November 25, 2025

On this accomplishment, Esmaili beamed.

“I’m so proud of them, the boys. They worked so hard all year,” he said. “They’re such great people. I am just beyond happy for them and so proud of them.”

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Red Force FC to make 5th trip to USOC after win over City Soccer

November 25, 2025 by Daniel Solana

Red Force FC celebrates after beating City Soccer FC 4-1 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Red Force FC

On a warm Sunday night at Kendall Soccer Park, with a spot in the US Open Cup on the line, Red Force and City Soccer delivered a fierce, emotional, high-stakes showdown that lived up to every expectation of a “win-and-you’re-in” battle. From the opening whistle it was clear both sides understood exactly what was at stake: survive, advance, and write their names into the most iconic tournament in American soccer.

City Soccer burst out of the gates with energy and ambition, carving out two clear scoring opportunities in the opening minutes that immediately put Red Force on the defensive. The pace was intense, the touches sharp, and Red Force needed a few minutes to settle into the rhythm of the match.

It was City Soccer who struck first, capitalizing on their aggressive start. A dangerous attack down the flank eventually found its way to Auner Escobar, who made no mistake in front of goal to give City Soccer a 1–0 lead. It was a deserved advantage based on the early flow of the game.

Red Force, however, are no strangers to pressure. Their response was almost instantaneous. A beautifully constructed attacking sequence ended with Santiago Fajardo launching himself into a full-stretch diving effort, only to be denied by an excellent reaction save from the City Soccer goalkeeper. That moment served as a turning point—Red Force settled in, found their confidence, and began imposing their game.

The match quickly grew chippy, as expected from two clubs fighting for a life-changing opportunity. Hard tackles, heated confrontations, and rising tension became part of the narrative as both teams refused to back down.

Red Force found their breakthrough midway through the first half with one of the most polished plays of the night. A sharp give-and-go sliced open the City Soccer defense before the ball was whipped across to the far post, where Stiven Salinas arrived perfectly to tap it in and level the score at 1–1. It was a brilliantly executed goal—simple, quick, and lethal.

Despite City Soccer controlling large stretches of possession in the first half, it was Red Force who carried the momentum into the halftime break. Their confidence grew with every pass, every duel, every transition. At 1–1, it felt like the match was tipping in their favor.

That feeling proved accurate almost immediately after the restart. Red Force came out flying, creating danger with every attack. They had a goal from Santi Fajardo called back for offside—a decision that brought heated protests—and followed it up with two more chances that sailed just wide of the City Soccer net. The warning signs were bright and blinking.

Then came the explosion.

In the 62nd minute, John John Díaz stepped up from distance and unleashed an absolute missile from outside the box that bent away from the goalkeeper and crashed into the back of the net. Four minutes later, in the 66th, Díaz did it again—another long-range strike, another moment of brilliance, another dagger to City Soccer’s hopes. His quick brace flipped the game on its head and showcased exactly why Red Force remain one of the most respected amateur sides in South Florida.

But the match wasn’t without controversy. In the 72nd minute, Santiago Fajardo—who had been a constant threat all night—was shown a second yellow and then a red card after a heated tackle near midfield. The decision sparked outrage on the Red Force sideline, and tensions reached a boiling point as City Soccer pushed desperately to take advantage of the extra man.

Even with 10 men, Red Force refused to sit back. Their shape tightened, their defensive lines held strong, and City Soccer struggled to generate meaningful danger in the final third. Red Force played with grit, unity, and a deep understanding of game management—hallmarks of their identity.

In the dying moments of stoppage time, with City Soccer throwing numbers forward, Red Force delivered the knockout punch. In 90+4, David Ochoa found himself with a pocket of space just outside the area and ripped a stunning shot that flew past the City Soccer keeper to make it 4–1. It was the exclamation point on a statement performance—one that left no doubt about which club rules the amateur scene in Kendall.

When the final whistle blew, Red Force stood tall, victorious, and deservedly on their way to the U.S. Open Cup. City Soccer fought bravely and showed quality early, but once Red Force found their rhythm, the difference in experience, composure, and firepower became undeniable.

On this Sunday night in Kendall, Red Force didn’t just win a match—they delivered a message.

After the match, Red Force captain Steven Seballos summed up the moment with pride:

“I’m proud of the work this team and coaching staff has put in to get back into the U.S. Open Cup. We had to win some tough games to get to this point, but it feels good to be back in the most historic soccer tournament in the United States.”

And now, they march on to the biggest stage American soccer has to offer.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: FC America CFL Spurs get revenge on Harbor City, return to USOC

November 25, 2025 by Thomas Dupree

FC America CFL Spurs celebrate after defeating Harbor City FC 5-4 in a PK shootout (after a 1-1 draw) in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Thomas Dupree

FC America CFL Spurs advanced into the US Open Cup, qualifying Saturday after defeating Harbor City FC in a penalty shootout, edging the hosts 4-3 in a penalty kick shootout after finishing in a 1-1 draw at the end of 120 tense, physical minutes. The game was marked by heavy challenges, shifting momentum and an electric atmosphere.

In penalties, Harbor City’s only miss — a crossbar strike from second shooter, Osaro Osayamon — proved decisive. FC America converted all four of its attempts to clinch the victory and avenge last year’s qualifying loss to the same opponent.

““The boys have worked really hard this year,” America head coach Luiz Dantas said. “We are undefeated so far in the UPSL, but this was the moment we all wanted badly.

“They conducted themselves in a very serious and professional manner in training every day, and it feels great for that to pay off by getting past the hurdle we stumbled on last year. The whole team really wanted this win and I’m full of joy and pride that we made it happen.”

A 4:30 kickoff time for a soccer match in central Florida can be dicey. However, the weather was as close to perfect as you can expect as Harbor City supporters made themselves known through waving flags and raised voices, while the America supporter’s section boasted a vuvuzela could be heard far and wide.

#USOC2026 QR4: @CFLSPURS 0:1 Harbor City FC

Video of Harbor City's 6' goal by Andrew Bennett. Credit: Veter Sports pic.twitter.com/juvSJr6HRP
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 23, 2025

From the starting whistle that familiarity made itself known in the form of crunching tackles and the slapping sound of two bodies meeting at full speed.

Officiating through the first half was especially the embodiment of “letting them play,” and the first 25 minutes were a frenetic up and down game; with the battle in the midfield being the center of action.

Harbor City did not wait long for the opening goal as a perfectly placed long ball from Forrest Ferget bounced from outside the 18-yard box to catch the FC America goalkeeper Hector Berrio Velandia in no-man’s land.

#USOC2026 QR4: FC America CFL Spurs 1:1 Harbor City FC
FC America equalize in the 17’ with a header by Akeem Flemmings in the box after he initiated the attack up the field. || LIVESTREAM (YouTube): https://t.co/74bvADGEKp pic.twitter.com/NCyMQAhY8Q
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 23, 2025

The indecision was all that Andrew Bennett needed to crash the box, win the 50/50 ball and bury it in the back of the net to make it 1-0. It was a play in keeping with the rest of the game that produced a loud slap that could be heard across the grounds as the two players collided.

The next 20 minutes was a midfield grudge match, with whole bodies being used to throw blows. In that maelstrom Akeem Flemmings used a direct boot to the gut to light a fire in his belly, driving the ball forward from his center back position into the Harbor City half.

With a pass to a teammate, he immediately crashed the box to find himself in perfect position to head the ball into the top left corner to even the match at 1-1 before the half.

The penalty kick that sent them to the tourney! Video credit: Veter Sports. pic.twitter.com/ndUNLv74To
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 24, 2025

The second half was a back and forth stalemate with both teams creating chances and both teams putting in a solid half of defensive work to keep things level, as the clock approached the full 90, fatigue made its influence known in the form of strong tackles from the first half turning reckless. The yellow card made its appearance towards both clubs as and the full allotment of subs were used. Meeting that full 90 all even at one goal apiece they marched into extra time with corners and set pieces coming to dominance. Each side had good scoring opportunities; however, none were completed as each side limped into penalties instead.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Kalonji Pro-Profile clinch first USOC spot aided by stunning GK save

November 25, 2025 by Calum Ewing

Kalonji Pro-Profile celebrates after defeating Potros FC 1-0 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Kalonji Pro-Profile

A couple hundred fans packed into Shiloh High School in Snellville, Ga. playing salsa music, banging bleachers, and showing home support for first time Open Cup qualifying Kalonji Pro-Profile in a 1-0 win over UPSL rivals Potros FC.

After 11 chaotic opening minutes, with possession mostly controlled by Potros, Kalonji had the game’s first scoring opportunity. Former Atlanta United 2 standout Karim Tmimi played a low ball from the left wing straight to an open Thierry Joules in the box, but Cameron Verona came up huge in goal for Potros with a kick-save to stop the effort from point-blank range.

In the 17th minute, Kalonji’s Owanja Medard ran centrally from the right wing, controlled the through ball with his chest, and was running towards goal before a light shove from a Potros defender sent him into the turf. It was a tough decision to make, but the referee did not give a penalty.

Thirteen minutes later, Potros had their first big chance on goal. A cross into the box from the left side found the head of Nazario Mbomio, but he headed it just wide of the right post.

The away side’s biggest chance would shortly follow in the 33rd minute when a cross from the left by Pedro Valenzuela fell towards Sebi Morrello. While moving and facing away from goal, Morrello flicked the ball with his back heel towards the top left corner. Goalkeeper Ashon Maynard of Kalonji dove rapidly to his right and made a ridiculous save, pushing the ball with one hand onto the crossbar.

“That’s a youngster. That’s a 2007”, said Pro-Profile Head Coach Bruno Kalonji, “an amazing keeper, as you can see.”

With just 5 minutes to go in the first half, Potros’ Benjamin Uranga picked up a yellow card. The ensuing free kick dipped considerably late into the 6 yard box, causing Uranga to head the ball backwards as he attempted to clear the danger. Cameron Verona was there to save the day again in goal just like the previous round, jumping up to push the ball over the crossbar. Verona and his backline would see off the remaining danger to keep things level at halftime.

pic.twitter.com/CjFrhTyUtU
— TheCup.us (US Open Cup news/history) (@usopencup) November 24, 2025

Nine minutes into the second half, Kalonji won a corner and rocketed a shot back towards goal from 30 yards out. It was blocked by Potros, and then the ref confidently pointed to the spot for a handball! From the stands and on replay, it was impossible to tell how correct the decision was with the pace on the shot, but the home side would not miss out on their chance to take the lead. Left back Grant Carr would step up and slot the ball home in the bottom right corner, and young Kalonji fans would invade the pitch to celebrate.

“We have a lot of experience on the field in the mix with the younger guys, you know, so we knew that we were going to score a goal eventually”, said Coach Kalonji. “Whether the PK, whether a regular goal, we knew we were going to score, so the tactics were to defend, defend, defend, to hold the game.”

And defend they did. Potros could not come close to replicating their ball movement and chance creation from the first half, and they could not play as well late as they did the round before against Atletico Buford. Kalonji Pro-Profile held onto the 1-0 lead for the remaining 38 minutes and earned their first ever Open Cup qualification in club history.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Castin hat trick delivers Florida Badgers OT win, first USOC berth

November 25, 2025 by Andrew Torres-Blanco

The Florida Badgers celebrate after defeating Miami United FC 5-3 in extra time in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Florida Badgers

For the first time in their history after only being inaugurated this past season, Florida Badgers FC clinched qualification to the U.S. Lamar Hunt Open Cup in dramatic fashion. Defeating favorites Miami United FC 5-3 in the closing minutes of extra time during a goal-filled evening at Lauderhill Park. “Johnny” Castide turned into the hero bagging a tremendous hatrick full of wonder, skill, and a little luck. The game was a rollercoaster from start to finish as many travelling supporters of the Badgers were fervently cheering on the team.

The game began quite physically as both teams searched to control the tempo of the game. Miami United quickly opened the scoring thanks to their forward man Alejo Fernandez. Whose towering header left Badger centerbacks helpless after a magisterial cross from Miami full back Josduar Serrano who found enough open space to whip in a cross to Fernandez gave Miami an early lead in the sixth minute.

Despite the early lead, FC Badger’s dominated throughout the first half as their high line pressure barely left Miami any breathing room to retain possession for long periods of time. The high line pressure proved too effective as captain and star of “El Equipo Del Pueblo”, Robertino Insua was barely able to have any influence over the game during the first half.

Florida Badgers forwards Dave Junior Altidore and Schimiliguen “Johnny” Castin were consistently deadly on the counters leaving Miami defenders dazed constantly. The debutant side would be rewarded for their efforts in the 24th minute. After an unusual Robertino Insua dispossession in midfield led to forward Roodolf Jean silking a fine through ball after excellent movement in between three defenders finding Altidore who made no mistake in slotting home past the keeper to tie up the game for his second goal of the campaign.

For the rest of the half, the game continued in similar fashion as the Badgers pushed to grab the lead failing to capitalize on a few chances. The Badgers could have gone into halftime with a lead when Altidore was left one on one against the keeper after a miscommunication in Miami’s defense, but keeper Nicolas Rivera was quick to react against the forward, parrying the ball at point blank speed.

The second half began the same way as the first half with the Badgers still pushing for a lead. Their efforts would pay off once again. Electric full back Don Dave sent in a cross that was headed away from Miami Defenders only for Castin to pounce quickly and skilfully dummied past his marker and scored past Rivera in the 65th minute. Leaving the Miami bench stunned as their run for the first time in four consecutive years in qualification, looked to be coming to an early end and missing out on a major tournament.

While the Badgers continued to be dangerous in possession, Miami always looked like they were ready to ride the initial storm and be ready to capitalize on any mistakes the Badgers might make. Emotions were high, every ball was fought to the end and Miami embraced this role. Coach Jerome Joseph of the Badgers continued to shout orders to his players to keep calm and not let emotions rise.

Despite this, in the 77th minute Miami showed why you can never count them out early, Serrano tried whipping a cross in similar fashion he did for their first goal but instead was met by a hand ball by a Badger defender, where the referee made no mistake in ruling a penalty in favor of United. Captain Robertino Insua stepped up to the occasion after a quiet night, calmly slotting home the penalty down the bottom left corner that tied the game up 2-2.

From then on the Badgers lost all momentum, the penalty clearly affected the players as Miami United who are experienced in these moments know when to deliver even in difficult situations.

The pendulum shifted and Miami had control for the remaining 15 minutes, Insua tried doing a cheeky tiki taka with substitute Teo Candido who had his shot saved at the near post by Barhemly Marc who was solid throughout the whole night behind goal.

As the game continued to get physical and Miami looked ever-growing, the referee blew the whistle for full time. Once again Miami United would have to go into extra time in qualification.

Miami would not have to wait long, as only two minutes into the first half of extra time center back Peterson Revange skilfully dispossessed Castin and sent a high ball to winger Sony Norde on the counter attack that cut in. Norde sent a diagonal pass to substitute Teo Candido who cut in as well and sent a rocket flying into the top right corner leaving Badgers keeper Marc helpless giving Miami a 3-2 lead. At this point, the Badgers looked battered as their momentum kept crashing and the team struggled to be potent on the offensive.

They needed a hero of individual brilliance and that is exactly what they got from Castin.

Minutes later an inspired Castin sent in a low cross after Miami defenders struggled to contain him in the penalty box. Despite initially looking as if the danger was averted, the rebound was left to fullback Don Dave who answered with another volley of his own past Rivera that tied the game 3-3.

While it seemed like everything was pointing to a penalty shootout an inspired Castin and co wanted to finish this in normal time. In the final five minutes Castin had an individual skill of brilliance by sending a deflected chip past Rivera and three Miami defenders to make it 4-3.

Seconds later he converted another penalty after a foul committed by Insua who had a night to forget and was sent off. Castin had his penalty initially saved by Rivera but was able to get the rebound completing a heroic hat trick for his team, ending the game 5-3. In a game where it could have gone any way for either team Castin was just unstoppable and proved to be the decider in the end.

As the Referee blew the final whistle crowds in support of the Badgers, which consisted of friends and families, rejoiced and jumped on the field to celebrate with the players as did the coaches and staff as they sang and chanted gleefully on a historic night.

Following the match, Castin gave his thoughts and aspirations for the Florida Badgers going forward following their qualification into the tournament, “We want to make it as far as we can, work hard, it’s all about working hard, but also, you we know we don’t only play soccer, we are also working, so we at least see the Haitian community trying to do something, we are just expecting to make it as far as we can.”

The Florida Badgers set their sights on the US Open Cup 2026 as they look back on a memorable year while Miami United are bowing out early for the first time in four years from qualification. An incredible story of resilience against all odds and most of all an early upset in the tournament.

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Emiland Elezaj leads SC Vistula Garfield to first USOC berth since 1970s

November 25, 2025 by Matt Ralph

SC Vistula Garfield celebrates after defeating Oaklyn United 2-1 in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph | Philadelphia Soccer Now

A standout goalkeeping performance, a first-half brace and the grit and determination of a player born in the early ‘80s propelled SC Vistula Garfield to their first U.S. Open Cup berth in the modern era after a 2-1 win over Oaklyn United Sunday night at Rowan University.

Oaklyn United, coming off a convincing 3-1 win over Vereinigung Erzgebirge on the same field three weeks earlier, appeared to be firing on all cylinders again early in the first half, creating multiple good looks on goal but SC Vistula Garfield goalkeeper Aldo Munoz was there several times to deny those chances. The 22-year-old had three key saves in the earlier stages of the match to keep it scoreless.

“He definitely kept us in the game,” head coach Sebastian Rojas said of Munoz. “He was definitely the player of the match for me.”

Chances the other way were fewer and far between, but danger man Emiland Elezaj reversed fortunes in a four-minute span in the latter stages of the half with a pair of goals. The first came when he dribbled his way into the left side of the box and drew a foul. He converted with a cheeky panenka from the spot to make it 1-0 and then minutes later was back pushing the ball into the final third.

This time instead of dribbling it into the box he backheeled a pass to an overlapping Nikolce Iloski to his left. After the cross was initially intercepted by a defender, the former Red Bull Academy player won the ball back and curled it toward the back post past an outstretched Matt Perrella.

“I saw where the keeper was and where I was and I knew there was only one place it needed to go,” Elezaj said. “So I sent it toward the far post.”

Players from SC Vistula Garfield celebrate after scoring a goal against Oaklyn United in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph | Philadelphia Soccer Now

Elezaj is no stranger to scoring big goals in U.S. Open Cup qualifying. He had four in qualifying for NJ Alliance FC last year and had the opener in their “win and in” game, which ended up going Alliance’s way in penalty kicks after Elezaj was forced out of the game with an injury.

“I was here in this same position last year and I’m just glad to be part of it again and for these guys to get to experience it,” Elezaj said. “There’s nothing like it.”

Oaklyn United had plenty of time down 2-0 to find their way back and like they did in spurts throughout the night were pouring on the pressure. Whether it was Munoz there to deny them on the doorstep or a promising attack ending in an offside flag or a shot wide of the mark, the goal just didn’t seem to be in the cards until there was precious little time left.

It came in stoppage time when Samuel Quaye was taken down on a run into the box. Jade Mesias converted from the spot past Munoz, who got a hand to the attempt but couldn’t keep it out.

Players from SC Vistula Garfield (right) and Oaklyn United battle for the ball in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Matt Ralph | Philadelphia Soccer Now

The mad dash to try and add a second would produce one more moment for Jason Mancuso. It came off a pass into the box by Mesias but Mancuso’s shot from the left side of the box went agonizingly wide of the far post. Mancuso sank to his knees on the turf with his head in his hands knowing how close he, and his team, had come all night to history.

“I think we were the better team through 90 minutes but just couldn’t finish it,” said Oaklyn United player-coach Matt Perrella, who had a save in the first half but wasn’t really tested in goal after halftime. “We haven’t expected to consistently win in a while, and the fact that we expected to win and we’re disappointed by it is a good thing as a club.”

On the flipside of the shock felt by the hosts was the elation of the winners, a fellow American Premier Soccer League Club that lifted the “qualified” banner like it was a trophy after posing for a team photo. The New Jersey club dates back to 1952 but last competed in the U.S. Open Cup in the 1970s and has the added feather in their cap of making it through the gauntlet of qualifying.

In the middle of the celebration scenes was veteran Christopher Karcz, one of several players on the team with deep roots in the club. Karcz’s father played for SC Vistula and his daughter is currently playing at the youth level with the club, something he did as a kid. Karcz went on to debut for the men’s team prior to a successful career at Rutgers and stint with the New York Red Bulls.

The APSL’s golden boot winner last season, the 42-year-old can add qualifying for the US Open Cup to his impressive career resume.

“It’s my hometown team so it’s like fighting for the village,” Karcz said. “I love playing for this team and I hope to do so for as many years as my body lets me.”

2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: ASC New Stars win PK shootout to end 14-year USOC drought

November 25, 2025 by Adam Uthe

ASC New Stars celebrate after defeating Denton Diablos 4-3 in a PK shootout (after a 0-0 draw) in the final round of the 2026 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: ASC New Stars

For the fourth time in club history – and the first time since 2012 – Houston’s ASC New Stars are headed to the US Open Cup. The visiting side overcame an extra time red card from defender Eric Robertson (his second yellow of the match) and a furious attack from hosts Denton Diablos to force penalty kicks, where they advanced 4-3 behind two massive saves from goalkeeper Emmanuel Frias.

From the opening kick, it looked as if Denton Diablos were destined to advance. Their initial pressure forced three corner kicks in the first 10 minutes of the match. Striker Jay Lee – who scored two goals on two separate occasions in the earlier rounds of qualifying – stretched ASC’s backline throughout the first half, but the visitors managed to bend without breaking. Denton’s sustained pressure began to wane towards the end of the first half and the New Stars’ confidence grew as they began to find the gaps in transition. Neither side, however, broke the deadlock.

Both sides picked up where they left off coming out of halftime; Denton kept up its attack and New Stars exploited the space in behind in transition. The Diablos looked to have finally broken the dam in 77th minute, but a brilliant diving header off a free kick from Eric Robertson’s first yellow card was ruled offside. Lee’s finishing touch seemingly had abandoned him; a 90th minute header sailed just over the bar and extra time would be required.

ASC New Stars head coach Tom Khalili admitted his side were losing the fitness battle late in the game as extra time came into play. And in the 113th minute, Eric Robertson’s second yellow card of the night looked as if it might be a fatal blow to the Houston side’s resistance. But the New Stars managed to hang on and force a shootout.

Each side converted their first three chances before ASC’s goalkeeper Emmanual Frias – who has featured previously in the Open Cup with NTX Rayados – came up with not one, but two saves that proved to be decisive; New Stars’ proved too much for Denton to overcome. Camilo Botero Fonseca converted the winning spot kick for the visitors.

“Oh, it was an awesome game. Anybody could have won it.” Khalili mused afterwards “ are a good, legitimate team…but we wanted to get there, and the guys showed passion. And when it goes to penalty kicks, it’s anybody’s game.”

He felt so strongly in his team’s overall performance, he couldn’t bring himself to single out any individual players.

“I honestly cannot pick one out. It would be unfair to all the other players. So I think I would just take my hat off to all my players. I love them all.”

ASC New Stars now await their fate in the 2026 Open Cup draw.

Penalty Kick Shootout Summary

Diego Herrera, ASC: GOAL
Eric Gomez Silva, Denton: GOAL
Ivan Andre Luquetta, ASC: GOAL
Jay Lee, Denton: GOAL
Hani Husain Ahmad, ASC: GOAL
Mason Moyers, Denton: GOAL
Quayyum Akorede Murana, ASC: SAVED
Matthew Albury, Denton: SAVED
Camilo Botero Fonseca, ASC: GOAL
Arnold Onyango, Denton: SAVED

2026 US Open Cup

2025 U.S. Open Cup – First Round ScheduleHome team listed first, all start times listed in Eastern

2026 LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP SCHEDULE

2025 U.S. Open Cup – First Round Schedule
Home team listed first, all start times listed in Eastern