The 111th edition of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup brings intense soccer action right to our screens this September. Four Major League Soccer clubs survived the grueling summer brackets to reach the 2026 semifinals. Fans watching the knockout drama unfold get a clear look at top-tier domestic talent fighting for a historic trophy. Bettors analyzing the odds and seeking the best returns often shop lines at offshore sportsbooks before making their matchday predictions.
Four Contenders Fight For The Title
The semifinal stage kicks off on September 14, featuring two incredible matchups. The Columbus Crew host Orlando City SC in an Eastern Conference battle packed with offensive talent. Out West, the Colorado Rapids welcome St. Louis City SC to decide the second finalist. Both matches promise relentless attacking football. Every single club remaining wants to lift the trophy Nashville SC claimed late in 2025.
| Home Team | Away Team | Date | Stage |
| Columbus Crew | Orlando City SC | September 14, 2026 | Semifinal |
| Colorado Rapids | St. Louis City SC | September 14, 2026 | Semifinal |
A Historic Format Returns Next Season
The 2025 and 2026 editions featured a limited field of 16 MLS clubs. That structure created heavy debate across the American soccer community. Reports emerging this week indicate a massive change for next year. MLS plans to enter all 27 of its U.S.-based franchises into the Open Cup tournament moving forward. This decision guarantees thrilling early-round matchups between amateur squads and top professional rosters.
The shift brings back the true underdog magic fans crave. Supporters tracking squad depths and coaching changes ahead of this expansion can find the latest updates in our news and transfers section. Giving smaller clubs a chance to host premier division opponents grows the sport immensely at the local level.
The Path To The 2026 Final
The tournament final takes place on October 21. Winning the U.S. Open Cup grants the champion $600,000 in prize money and a coveted spot in the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup. Securing a continental ticket drives these front offices to field their strongest possible starting elevens.
Following live matches and tracking player statistics adds incredible excitement to the fall schedule. Fans wanting deep statistical breakdowns routinely visit the official U.S. Soccer hub to analyze expected goals and possession metrics. The remaining clubs must push through fatigue and injuries to etch their names into domestic soccer history.