The 2017 US Open Cup is set to begin with Florida amateur sides Red Force FC and South Florida Surf facing off in the first match.
The 104th edition of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is about to begin! With most of the first round competition taking place on Wednesday, April 10, Florida sides Red Force FC and South Florida Surf will take the field a day before in the competitions first contest. The Open Cup offers the top amateur teams from around the country to face off against each other in meaningful competition, along with the chance to play against professional sides.
Red Force FC and South Florida Surf’s match will be streamed on the US Soccer YouTube page as both sides look to earn a showdown against Miami FC of the NASL. Kickoff is slated for 8:30 EST from Tropical Park Stadium in Miami.
Red Force FC
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Red Force FC have competed in the senior division amateur leagues of Miami since 2009. The competitive club made their first Open Cup appearance in 2013, losing in the first round to state rival, Ocala Stampede. The club and their possession heavy style look to improve on their first appearance and take on their local professional side.
Red Force will host the first match. Founder and head coach, Gabriel Vega, has almost single-handily made the club all that it is today. Stories like his are why we love the Open Cup.
South Florida Surf
The South Florida Surf, founded just last season, compete in the USL-PDL in the Southeast Division. The Surf qualified for the Open Cup after finishing in second place in their inaugural season. Despite their short history, center-back Jack Elliott has already made the jump from their roster to the MLS ranks with the Philadelphia Union.
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The Surf are considered the favorites in the contest, but nothing is a given when it comes to the cup. Miami FC are currently the first place team in NASL, and will visit the winner of the amateur match.