There’s nothing quite like the first round of the U.S. Open Cup.
Amateur and semi-pro clubs from across the country come together against professional opponents to try and do something magical. It’s a spotlight for teams with a cause and a platform for players who haven’t got their shot to shine on a national stage. Here at Backheeled, we try to highlight the best stories in American soccer, and the Open is rife with moments to remember.
What stood out during the first three days of action for the 2024 tournament? We’ve got superlatives for the jaw-dropping, the weird, and everything in between.
Best Goal
It’s 6:15 on a Tuesday night. Most of America is just getting home from work, but the very first match of the Open Cup’s first round is already underway. Miami United of the NPSL – a sort of fourth-tier semi-pro league – has a free kick against MLS Next Pro’s Chattanooga FC, a team with a huge fan base and high expectations on the back of a 2024 league change.
