Republic FC to begin U.S. Open Cup Play on May 15

The first and second round matches of the 105th Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup were announced yesterday, and Sacramento Republic FC learned that they will play the winner of the CD Aguiluchos (National Premier Soccer League) and San Francisco City FC (Premier Development League) opening round match. Those two sides will play on May 9. Republic FC will host the second round match on May 15.

Republic FC and CD Aguiluchos do have some history, last playing against each other in the 2016 U.S. Open Cup tournament, where the Quails advanced with a 5-0 win. Republic and San Francisco City FC have not played in any competition to date.

Last year, Republic FC made it to the Round of 16, which is the furthest the club has advanced in the competition. It was a great run, which included a 2-0 win over Reno 1868 FC, and most impressively, a 4-1 win over MLS side Real Salt Lake. While they would end up falling to LA Galaxy in their next match 0-2, the win over Real Salt Lake marked the first time that the Republic knocked off an MLS side to advance in the tournament.

Republic FC, CD Aguiluchos and San Francisco City FC join Reno 1868 FC, and San Jose Earthquakes as the five teams representing Northern California in the competition. Of note, USL expansion team Fresno FC will also compete in the 94 team field.

Founded in 1914, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is the oldest national soccer competition in the United States. To learn more about the Open Cup, click here.

Can the boys get back to the Round of 16 again this year? How will Republic manager Simon Elliot approach the competition? We’ll soon find out!