Seattle Sounders Set to Face Sacramento Republic FC in U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinals
As the Seattle Sounders prepare to take on Sacramento Republic FC in the quarterfinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter. The match is set to take place on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Heart Health Park in Sacramento, California. This pivotal game is not just a clash of teams but a battle of leagues, with the Sounders representing Major League Soccer (MLS) and Sacramento Republic FC hailing from the USL Championship.
The U.S. Open Cup is one of the oldest soccer tournaments in the United States, and it offers a unique opportunity for lower-division teams to compete against top-tier MLS clubs. Both teams have shown remarkable resilience and skill to reach this stage, making the upcoming match a must-watch event. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting fixture.
Match Details and Viewing Options
When and Where
- Kickoff Time: 8 p.m. PT
- Venue: Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
How to Watch
- Television: Available for free on Apple TV
- Radio: Tune in to 950 KJR AM for live commentary
Team Records and Form Guide
Seattle Sounders
- 2024 Record: 8-7-7 (31 points, 7th in MLS Western Conference)
- Recent Form: WWWDW
The Seattle Sounders are on a remarkable run, showcasing their best form of the season. With three consecutive wins and an unbeaten streak in their last five matches, the Sounders are riding high on confidence. They have been a dominant force in MLS and are looking to extend their winning streak in the U.S. Open Cup.
Sacramento Republic FC
- 2024 Record: 7-3-7 (28 points, 3rd in USL Championship Western Conference)
- Recent Form: LWDLW
Sacramento Republic FC has also had a strong season, currently sitting third in the USL Championship Western Conference. Despite some recent inconsistencies, they have shown their ability to compete against top-tier teams, as evidenced by their performance in this tournament.
How They Reached the Quarterfinals
Seattle Sounders’ Journey
- Round of 32: Defeated Louisville City FC 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw
- Round of 16: Defeated Phoenix Rising FC 2-1
The Sounders have had a challenging path to the quarterfinals, overcoming tough opponents from the USL Championship. Their resilience and determination were on full display, especially in their penalty shootout win against Louisville City FC.
Sacramento Republic FC’s Journey
- Round of 32: Defeated Monterey Bay FC 2-0
- Round of 16: Defeated San Jose Earthquakes 4-3 after extra time
Sacramento Republic FC has been nothing short of spectacular, pulling off a major upset by defeating MLS side San Jose Earthquakes. Their journey has been marked by tenacity and skill, making them a formidable opponent for the Sounders.
What’s at Stake?
The winner of this quarterfinal match will host the winner of the other quarterfinal clash between LAFC and New Mexico United. This adds an extra layer of excitement and urgency, as both teams aim to advance to the semifinals and potentially secure a home advantage.
Previous Encounters
The Sounders and Sacramento Republic FC have only faced each other once in a competitive match. In the 2018 U.S. Open Cup Round of 32, Sacramento Republic FC emerged victorious with a 2-1 win after extra time. This previous encounter adds a historical edge to the upcoming match, as the Sounders look to avenge their earlier defeat.
Key Players and Unsung Heroes
Seattle Sounders
The Sounders have been buoyed by some standout performances from unexpected sources. Backup goalkeeper Andrew Thomas played a crucial role in the penalty shootout against Louisville City FC, making three vital saves and even scoring the clinching penalty. Additionally, Tacoma Defiance loanee Kalani Kossa-Rienzi was the hero against Phoenix Rising FC, netting the winner in the 88th minute.
Sacramento Republic FC
- Player to Watch: Danny Vitiello, Goalkeeper
In knockout tournaments, a hot goalkeeper can make all the difference, and Danny Vitiello is arguably the best in the USL Championship. Coming off a stellar 2023 season where he won the Goalkeeper of the Year award, Vitiello has continued his excellent form into 2024. He leads the league in clean sheets and goals prevented, anchoring a defense that has conceded a league-best 13 goals all season.
Fan Engagement and Ticket Information
Special Ticket Offers
- Deposit for 2025 Season: Place a deposit at a special rate of only $100 per seat. The earlier you place your deposit, the sooner you will gain access to secure seats for the 2025 season.
- 3-Match Pack: Join us for three big matches this season, including Decision Day against the Portland Timbers. Tickets start at $30.
FAQs
What is the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup?
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is an annual knockout cup competition in American soccer. It is open to all professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer, making it one of the most inclusive and historic tournaments in the country.
How can I watch the Seattle Sounders vs. Sacramento Republic FC match?
The match will be available to watch for free on Apple TV. For radio listeners, the game will be broadcast live on 950 KJR AM.
Who are the key players to watch in this match?
For the Seattle Sounders, keep an eye on backup goalkeeper Andrew Thomas and Tacoma Defiance loanee Kalani Kossa-Rienzi. For Sacramento Republic FC, goalkeeper Danny Vitiello is the player to watch.
What is at stake in this quarterfinal match?
The winner of this match will host the winner of the LAFC vs. New Mexico United quarterfinal in the semifinals of the U.S. Open Cup.
How have the teams performed in recent matches?
The Seattle Sounders are in excellent form, with three consecutive wins and an unbeaten streak in their last five matches. Sacramento Republic FC has had a mixed recent form but showed their potential by defeating MLS side San Jose Earthquakes in the Round of 16.
Conclusion
The quarterfinal clash between the Seattle Sounders and Sacramento Republic FC promises to be an exciting and high-stakes match. Both teams have shown remarkable skill and determination to reach this stage, and the winner will move one step closer to lifting the prestigious Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. With numerous viewing options and special ticket offers, fans have every reason to be excited about this crucial encounter. Whether you’re supporting the Sounders or Republic FC, this match is set to be a memorable chapter in U.S. soccer history.
