On April 6, the United States Soccer Federation announced the first round match-ups for the 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The U.S. Open Cup, recognized as U.S. Soccer’s national club championship, is an annual knockout competition open to all amateur and professional soccer teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. The tournament has crowned a champion annually since 1914.
Wednesday’s announcement was exciting as each team learned who their first round opponent would be, as well as the location of that match. Brilla was excited to learn that they will be hosting CD Motogua New Orleans on May 11 at Traceway Park in Clinton.
Mississippi Brilla qualified for this year’s tournament by finishing on top of the Mid-South division standings last season. CD Motagua New Orleans plays in the Louisiana Premier League and qualified for this year’s Open Cup after winning the Region III championships in 2015. CD Motagua was founded in 1984 and, in addition to the Louisiana Premier League, competes in the International Soccer League Association in New Orleans.
"Having won our division last year, we have created a great opportunity for our players to experience playing in the U.S. Open Cup,” said Head Coach Mark McKeever. "Now that we have the opportunity we have to make the most of it by performing at the highest level and giving ourselves a chance to progress. I am excited to get this talented bunch of players together and see what heights can be reached this year.”
“Hosting the Open Cup is an incredible opportunity to showcase our team and our community,” said Executive Director Rusty Bryant. “We are hoping that Mississippi soccer fans will rally behind us and see if we can make a run in this tournament."
The teams will square off at Traceway Park in Clinton, MS at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $5 at the gate. To purchase tickets online, CLICK HERE.
In addition to announcing the first round matches, U.S. Soccer also announced the second round scenarios. If Mississippi Brilla wins the May 11 match, they will host Oklahoma City Energy FC of the USL on May 18. If Motagua are victorious, they would also face Energy FC with the site to be determined later.