By Datti Jinkiri
Mississippi Brilla FC picked up their first ever US Open Cup win by beating CD Motagua of New Orleans 2-0. Goals from Brazilian Eduardo Cruz and Chilean Ignacio Flores provided the difference in the match. It was CD Motagua’s first ever Open Cup appearance and Brilla’s third.
Cruz opened up the scoring in the 28th minute. The Brilla captain picked up the ball in the middle of the park and unleashed a venomous shot from 25 yards away. The shot deflected off of a Motagua player and went past the keeper Lamoy Graham.
The home team increased their advantage right on the stroke of halftime. Forward Lucas Cordeiro played a perfectly-weighted pass into the path of winger Ignacio Flores, whose run was well-timed. Flores’ shot struck the post and went in to give Brilla the 2-0 lead.
Motagua increased their pressure as the game went on and attempted to get back into the match. Midfielder Leonardo Barros led the team with three shots and looked dangerous on the ball. Brandon Chagnard had two shots, including a powerful free kick that Brilla keeper Brendan Ledgeway did well to handle. Graham had three saves for the New Orleans club as well.
Ledgeway picked up the win for Brilla, making five saves in 90 minutes of action. Cordero was an attacking threat throughout the night, leading the team with three shots.
Brilla advances to the second round of the Open Cup for the first time in their history. The team will welcome USL’s Oklahoma City Energy to the Magnolia State next Wednesday, May 18.