News Summary
Charlotte FC is ready to kick off their U.S. Open Cup campaign with a crucial match against North Carolina FC. Scheduled for a 7:00 p.m. ET start at First Horizon Stadium, this Round of 32 clash is expected to draw significant attention from fans. Charlotte, aiming for their first trophy, faces NCFC, currently positioned fifth in the USL Eastern Conference. The outcome will determine their path in the tournament, with the team also managing injury issues ahead of the match. Fans can tune in to watch via Paramount+ and CBS Sports networks.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte FC is set to kick off their U.S. Open Cup journey on May 6, 2025, as they face North Carolina FC (NCFC) in the Round of 32. This highly-anticipated match will be held at First Horizon Stadium in Cary, North Carolina, with the kickoff scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the match live on platforms including Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network, and CBS Sports Network.
NCFC competes in the United Soccer League (USL) Championship and currently holds the fifth position in the Eastern Conference, boasting a record of three wins, three draws, and two losses. Charlotte FC, on the other hand, aims to secure their first trophy in club history through this prestigious tournament.
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is an annual knockout competition that invites all eligible, affiliated amateur teams, which qualify in the fall, to compete against professional clubs in the spring. The 2025 Round of 32 features a mix of 16 Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs facing off against lower-division opponents. Notably, an MLS team has won the tournament every year since 2000.
Match Significance
Charlotte FC is part of what is referred to as the Clint Dempsey Group, which includes D.C. United, Charleston Battery, and NCFC. The hosting priorities for the subsequent round were determined during a draw conducted on April 17, 2025. If Charlotte FC emerges victorious against NCFC, they will advance to face the winner of the match between Charleston Battery and D.C. United.
Recent Performance and Injuries
Despite their impressive start to the 2025 season, having scored 18 goals in the first 11 matches, Charlotte FC is dealing with injury challenges that could impact their performance against NCFC. Leading scorer Pep Biel, who has tallied three goals and provided six assists, will unfortunately miss the match due to injury. The team is coming off a recent loss to the Columbus Crew and will play against Nashville SC just four days after the cup clash.
Upcoming Matches
Following their match against NCFC, Charlotte FC is scheduled to host the Chicago Fire at Bank of America Stadium on May 17, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. Fans attending the match will receive a limited-edition party shirt presented by Daimler Truck North America, adding excitement to the upcoming home game.
Background of the U.S. Open Cup
The U.S. Open Cup is a well-established tournament with a history dating back to 1914. It has become a significant event in American soccer, showcasing talent from various tiers of the sport. The finals for the 2025 edition are scheduled for October 1, 2025, with the champions earning a spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Notable Matches
Other notable matches in the Round of 32 include a matchup between D.C. United and Charleston Battery and Nashville SC and Chattanooga Red Wolves SC. These matches promise to deliver exciting soccer action as teams vie for advancement in the tournament.
As the countdown to the match against North Carolina FC continues, Charlotte FC fans remain hopeful for a successful run in the U.S. Open Cup and a potential first trophy for the club.
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte FC Match Preview
- Wikipedia: Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup
- MLS Soccer: How to Watch the U.S. Open Cup
- Google Search: U.S. Open Cup 2025
- Charlotte FC: How to Watch Against NCFC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Soccer
- U.S. Soccer: Round of 32 Schedule
- Google News: Charlotte FC
