Sporting KC Plays for History in the U.S. Open Cup, but LAFC’s Thirsty for Trophies

When we talk about soccer in the United States, the conversation always seems to circle back to the MLS, with its millionaire teams and star players. But, let's be real for a second, the true heartbeat of American soccer? It’s in the U.S. Open Cup. And this Wednesday, September 25th, we’re in for a showdown that could be one of the most unforgettable moments in American soccer history. Sporting KC is squaring off against LAFC at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. It’s a game that promises to pull on the heartstrings of fans and, who knows, maybe carve out a new, shining chapter in SKC's legacy.

Sporting Kansas City hasn’t reached a final since 2017. That feels like forever, doesn’t it? For a team that used to be one of the heavy hitters in the MLS, staying out of the spotlight this long just doesn’t sit right. But here they are, back in the mix, hunting for their fifth Open Cup title. A win would put SKC up there with the legends, like Bethlehem Steel and Maccabi Los Angeles.

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Coach Peter Vermes, who’s already led SKC to three of their four U.S. Open Cup victories, is looking to guide his team to glory again. He’s one of the most respected names in American soccer—a guy who eats, sleeps, and breathes Sporting KC. And don't get me wrong, Vermes is the real deal, maybe even the best active coach in the MLS. But here’s the kicker: even a mastermind like Vermes can’t promise his team will walk off the field with that trophy in hand.

If you’ve been following MLS, you know LAFC is the team that came in to shake things up. Founded in 2018, LAFC skyrocketed to the top, racking up trophies, smashing records, and signing some of the best talent money can buy. It’s that sweet spot where cash meets ambition. And even though LAFC has already secured a spot in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup by finishing second in the Leagues Cup, do you think they’re going to take their foot off the gas in this game? Not a chance.

This game’s the perfect opportunity for LAFC to add another trophy to their shelf and remind everyone that when it comes to national competitions, they’re the big dogs. Especially with a home crowd packing the stadium, and Denis Bouanga—the guy who’s been lighting it up for the team—ready to shine once again. Bouanga, by the way, knocked in the winning goal in the semifinal against the Seattle Sounders, and no doubt, he’s the one to watch in this final.

But even with LAFC being the favorite, you can’t just brush off the magic that Sporting KC brings to Open Cup finals. This team’s got something the newer franchises lack—tradition. And tradition? Well, it carries weight, especially in big moments. That said, the reality check is that Sporting KC is far from their prime. They’re struggling in the MLS, sitting in 12th place in the Western Conference, with no shot at the playoffs. What does that mean? Well, this final is all they’ve got left to save their season.

SKC’s got a few players who can turn the tide, like Johnny Russell and Dany Rosero, who’ve both scored in the critical stages of the Open Cup. And let’s not forget Tim Melia, the veteran goalkeeper who was the hero in the penalty shootout back in the 2015 final. These guys know what it takes to win and could very well be the stars of another magical night.

Now, if there’s one thing that’s crystal clear when you look at this matchup, it’s that Sporting Kansas City is going to need more than just history and tradition to win. They’re going to have to fight, run their hearts out, and, most importantly, believe they can take down the LA giant on its home turf. And if you think that’s going to be a walk in the park, you’re dead wrong. The truth is, LAFC doesn’t lose much at home, and with their fans roaring from the stands, the pressure’s going to be intense. And, yeah, the talent gap between these two teams is pretty hard to ignore.

On the flip side, what Sporting KC might lack in raw talent, they make up for with grit and determination. And the Open Cup, by its very nature, has always been the stage for surprises. Second-division teams, underdog squads with no big names—they’ve all had their moments of glory in this competition.

So, will SKC silence the LAFC crowd and bring the trophy home? Or are we about to witness Los Angeles further cement their dominance in the landscape of American soccer?