The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 kicks off with both teams seeking redemption after difficult league performances
Category: Sports
Charlotte FC is set to host regional rivals Atlanta United FC in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 on April 28, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET. The match will take place at the Sportsplex at Matthews, marking the first time these two Southern clubs meet in a cup competition.
This matchup is particularly important for both teams as they look for redemption following challenging runs in Major League Soccer (MLS). Charlotte FC recently faced back-to-back defeats, conceding eight goals in losses to Nashville SC and Orlando City. In stark comparison, their last competitive win came in this very tournament, where they dismantled Charlotte Independence 6-0 in the Round of 32. Meanwhile, Atlanta United is coming off a 2-1 victory over Toronto FC, a result that ended a winless streak stretching back to March.
Charlotte FC's head coach Dean Smith expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform well in the knockout stage, saying, "We're ahead to playing Atlanta. We're back at Matthews. We had a good night there the other week, and hopefully we can have a good night tomorrow but respectful of what the opposition are." This sentiment is echoed by Charlotte goalkeeper Tyler Miller, who emphasized the significance of the tournament as a path to the club's first major trophy.
As both teams prepare for the match, they face unique challenges. Atlanta United's head coach Tata Martino has to navigate a short two-day rest period and an injury list that includes key players. Miguel Almirón remains sidelined due to a knee injury, and other unavailable players include Steven Alzate (adductor), Sergio Santos (calf), and Cayman Togashi (ankle). On a positive note, new signing Tomás Jacob has recovered from injury and is eligible to play, adding depth to the squad.
In terms of recent head-to-head records, Charlotte FC holds an advantage, having won both meetings against Atlanta last season, including a memorable match featuring goals from Idan Toklomati, Wilfried Zaha, and Pep Biel. This history adds another layer of intensity to the rivalry, as the stakes are higher in a knockout format.
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is the oldest national soccer tournament in the United States, celebrating elite amateur and professional soccer in communities across the country. This year, the tournament began in mid-March and will culminate in a showpiece final on October 21, 2026. A total of 80 teams are competing for a $1 million purse, along with a coveted spot in the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup.
In the buildup to the match, both teams have been under pressure in their respective leagues. Charlotte FC has struggled defensively, and their recent performances have raised concerns among fans and coaching staff alike. The team has scored 14 goals in their last five matches but has also conceded 11, highlighting a need for improvement in their defensive organization.
Atlanta United, on the other hand, has also faced difficulties in the league, winning only once in their last five matches. Their recent victory against Toronto FC has provided a much-needed boost in morale, but they still sit near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The U.S. Open Cup offers both clubs an opportunity to reset their campaigns and strive for success in a different format.
As the match approaches, fans are eager to see how both teams will adapt to the knockout format. The rivalry between Charlotte FC and Atlanta United is well-documented, and the added pressure of a cup match is likely to create a high-intensity atmosphere. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET on CBS Sports Network and can also be streamed on platforms like FuboTV and DirecTV Stream.
The outcome of this match could have lasting implications for both teams. For Charlotte, advancing in the tournament could reignite their season and provide a much-needed confidence boost. For Atlanta, a victory would solidify their recent resurgence and potentially pave the way for a deep cup run.
With rivalry stakes, cup pressure, and the promise of exciting football, fans can expect a competitive and thrilling encounter on Tuesday night. As the players take to the field, how they navigate the challenges ahead and whether they can rise to the occasion in front of their supporters.
As the countdown to the match continues, the anticipation builds. Will Charlotte maintain their dominance over Atlanta, or will the Five Stripes turn the tide in this historic cup clash? Fans will find out soon enough as the action kicks off.