The path to lifting the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup trophy is taking shape, with U.S. Soccer announcing the schedule for the Second Round of the 2026 tournament. Thirty-two clubs will compete in 16 matches between March 31 and April 1, continuing a tradition of mixing professional and amateur sides in a nationwide competition that dates back to 1914. All Second Round matches will be streamed live on Paramount+, offering fans across the country access to the early stages of this historic tournament. This year’s competition is particularly notable as it builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and promises to showcase the breadth of American soccer talent.
The Second Round pairings, announced Friday, feature a geographically-driven structure, with teams matched up based on location and supplemented by random selection. This approach aims to minimize travel costs and foster regional rivalries. The matchups pit teams from various levels of the U.S. Soccer pyramid against each other – from the USL Championship (Division II) and USL League One (Division III) to MLS NEXT Pro and the Open Division, comprised of amateur and semi-professional clubs. The Open Cup’s unique format consistently provides opportunities for underdog stories and unexpected upsets, making it a favorite among soccer enthusiasts. The full schedule, including venues and broadcast links, is available on ussoccer.com.
Key Matchups and Broadcast Details
The Second Round action kicks off on Tuesday, March 31, with a compelling matchup on CBS Sports Network between Asheville City SC of USL League Two and One Knoxville SC of USL League One. This contest reignites the “Smoky Mountain Series” rivalry, adding an extra layer of intensity to the already high-stakes competition. Later that evening, CBS Sports Golazo Network will broadcast Valley 559 FC (UPSL) hosting Sacramento Republic FC of the USL Championship. Sacramento Republic FC, known for its passionate fanbase and recent successes, will be a significant test for the amateur side.
Wednesday’s schedule features an all-Michigan clash between Flint City Bucks and Detroit City FC, similarly airing on CBS Sports Golazo Network. CBS Sports Network will showcase a contest between Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC (USL Championship) and Spokane Velocity FC (USL League One). The day concludes with Orange County SC hosting Phoenix Rising FC on CBS Sports Golazo Network, marking the 38th all-time meeting between these two clubs – their first in Open Cup play. This long-standing rivalry promises a competitive and engaging match for viewers.
Navigating a Weather Delay and Tournament Structure
The schedule includes a placeholder for the winner of the postponed First Round match between Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC and Steel City FC, which was delayed due to inclement weather. That match is now scheduled for March 25, and the victor will be slotted into the Virginia Dream FC matchup on March 31. This postponement highlights the challenges of holding outdoor sporting events during the spring months, but U.S. Soccer has worked to accommodate the delay and ensure a fair competition.
The 16 teams that emerge victorious from the Second Round will advance to the Round of 32, where they will be joined by the 16 Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs participating in the tournament. This marks a significant shift in the competition, as the MLS teams enter the fray, bringing a higher level of skill and experience to the field. The draw for the Round of 32 and Round of 16 is scheduled for April 2 and will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Golazo Network’s “Morning Footy” at 9 a.m. ET.
A Diverse Field Representing American Soccer
The Second Round participants represent a broad spectrum of American soccer, showcasing the growth and diversity of the sport at all levels. Sixteen teams hail from the USL Championship, the second tier of professional soccer in the United States. Seven teams compete in USL League One, although one represents MLS NEXT Pro. Notably, seven teams approach from the Open Division, representing amateur leagues like the USL League Two and the UPSL, demonstrating the Open Cup’s commitment to providing opportunities for clubs outside the professional ranks. A full breakdown of participants by league is available on ussoccer.com.
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup remains a unique and cherished competition in the American soccer landscape. It provides a platform for clubs of all sizes to compete for national glory, fostering a sense of community and passion among players and fans alike. As the tournament progresses, the stakes will only increase, and the competition will undoubtedly deliver thrilling moments and unforgettable stories. The upcoming draw on April 2 will further shape the tournament bracket, setting the stage for the Round of 32 and the continued pursuit of the coveted Open Cup trophy.
The next key date for fans to mark is April 2, when the Round of 32 and Round of 16 draws will be held live on CBS Sports Golazo Network’s “Morning Footy.” This draw will reveal the matchups and host locations for the next phase of the tournament, bringing the competition one step closer to crowning a champion.
What are your predictions for the Second Round? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow soccer fans!
