MLS Showdowns Dominate U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinals

The 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinals are set to showcase exciting matchups featuring Major League Soccer (MLS) teams. This year’s tournament has entered a pivotal stage, highlighting the top eight clubs following the elimination of lower-division teams. Notably, five of these clubs have previously won the Open Cup, showcasing a rich history of competition.

U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinal Matchups

The Quarterfinals will feature four matches streamed live on Paramount+ and CBS Sports. The Semifinals are scheduled for September 15 and 16, with the Final on October 21.

Match Previews

• Orlando City SC vs. Atlanta United FC
  – Date: May 19
  – Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
  – Location: Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, FL
  – Previous Meeting: 1-1 draw in league play
  – Historical Context: This is their second Open Cup encounter; Atlanta previously won a Semifinal matchup in 2019.

  Both teams are eager to progress after solid performances in the earlier rounds, with Orlando defeating FC Naples and the New England Revolution, while Atlanta beat Chattanooga FC and Charlotte FC.

• St. Louis CITY SC vs. Houston Dynamo FC
  – Date: May 19
  – Time: 8:00 p.m. ET
  – Location: Energizer Park, St. Louis, MO
  – Historical Context: Series tied at 3-3-2

  St. Louis aims for its first Semifinal appearance. The Dynamo, a two-time Open Cup champion, seeks to leverage recent strong performances to advance further.

• Columbus Crew vs. New York City FC
  – Date: May 20
  – Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
  – Location: ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, Columbus, OH
  – Historical Context: This marks their 30th meeting; Columbus won the Cup in 2002.

  Columbus, motivated after coaching changes and seeking to advance for the first time since 2010, faces an NYCFC squad looking to move past the Quarterfinals for the first time.

• Colorado Rapids vs. San Jose Earthquakes
  – Date: May 20
  – Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
  – Location: DICK’S Sporting Goods Park, Commerce City, CO
  – Historical Context: The teams have met 81 times, with only one match outside league play.

  The Rapids aim for their first Semifinal since 1999, while San Jose looks to break past the Quarterfinal barrier, having faced injuries in recent matches.

The stage is set for thrilling matchups as these MLS teams vie for a coveted spot in the U.S. Open Cup Semifinals. Fans can expect high-stakes action as these clubs aim to cement their legacy in this prestigious tournament.