The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has reached its third round, and the magic of underdog stories continues to captivate. El Farolito has earned the distinction of being the amateur team to advance furthest for the second year in a row. Now, with USL Championship teams entering the fray, the early tournament feel-good narratives face potential challenges. Will MLS Next Pro teams like Tacoma Defiance and Columbus Crew II continue their journey long enough to face MLS teams?

Even emerging teams such as Portland Hearts of Pine and FC Naples are gaining recognition with early victories in the competition. Only eight teams will proceed to the fourth round, where MLS teams will begin to participate, marking a crucial stage in the U.S. Open Cup final journey. While a lower division team hasn`t reached the final since Sacramento Republic in 2022, there`s a possibility this year could break that trend.

With MLS modifying the cup competition qualification for its teams, those in the Concacaf Champions Cup will focus on that and the Leagues Cup. Teams in the Leagues Cup will also participate in the Open Cup, while those not qualifying for the Leagues Cup will solely compete in the Open Cup. MLS Next Pro teams are replacing some of those absent teams, creating opportunities for lower division teams to make a significant impact.

Which teams should you watch out for?

Portland Hearts of Pine Aim to Impress in Debut Season

Portland Hearts of Pine, a new team in USL League One, is set to face regional rival Rhode Island FC. Rhode Island, under Khano Smith, reached the USL Cup final in their inaugural season and seek further success. Portland aims to test themselves against regional competition and has introduced a new mascot, Moxie the Moose. Could Moxie become a beloved figure in this Open Cup, similar to past campaigns featuring unlikely heroes?

Next Pro Teams Progressing

Columbus Crew II and Tacoma Defiance have the potential for two MLS Next Pro teams to advance past the third round. Last year, only Carolina Core achieved this, but this season could see more. Columbus Crew II striker Chase Adams, known for scoring 10 goals in a U.S. U-17 match, has showcased his playmaking in the Open Cup with three assists. This form will challenge Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Defiance will face Oakland Roots, who are known for ending underdog runs, setting up a compelling match.

Florida Supremacy at Stake

FC Naples, another USL League One newcomer, has reached the tournament`s third round. Facing Tampa Bay Rowdies, a historically strong USL team, Naples has an opportunity to make waves amidst Tampa`s recent instability. Following a poor season start, the Rowdies dismissed Robbie Neilson, with Steve Coleman taking over as interim coach for this match. Naples is performing strongly in League One, undefeated in six games, and this match is a chance to prove their arrival by defeating in-state rivals Tampa Bay.

El Farolito Still in the Hunt

El Farolito versus Sacramento Republic is a highly anticipated third-round match. Sacramento has a history of Open Cup success, while El Farolito demonstrates the sustainability of their amateur setup. Named after a popular San Francisco burrito restaurant, El Farolito embodies the tournament`s magic. As San Francisco C.D. Mexico, they won the Open Cup in 1993, and Sacramento Republic reached the final in 2022, both teams are aiming for deep runs this year.

U.S. Open Cup Schedule

Matches available on Paramount+

Tuesday, April 15

  • Columbus Crew II vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds
  • Louisville City FC vs. Loudoun United (CBS Sports Network)
  • Charlotte Independence vs. North Carolina FC
  • Portland Hearts of Pine vs. Rhode Island FC (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
  • Charleston Battery vs. Tormenta FC
  • Union Omaha vs. San Antonio FC
  • AV Alta FC vs. Orange County SC (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
  • Tacoma Defiance vs. Oakland Roots

Wednesday, April 16

  • FC Naples vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
  • Detroit City FC vs. Westchester SC
  • Indy Eleven vs. Miami FC
  • FC Tulsa vs. Phoenix Rising
  • Colorado Springs FC vs. One Knoxville SC
  • New Mexico United vs. El Paso Locomotive (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
  • Sacramento Republic vs. El Farolito FC (CBS Sports Network)
  • Las Vegas Lights vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves