USA · Open Knockout
US Open Cup
In US-sports termsAmerica's version of the FA Cup — the one place amateurs, second-division sides and MLS giants all play in the same bracket. The country's only real shot at a Cinderella story.
What it is
The oldest ongoing US soccer competition (since 1914). A single-elimination knockout open to clubs from every level — pros and amateurs alike.
How you get in
Open across the US pyramid, from MLS down to amateur sides.
What it feeds
Winner → Concacaf Champions Cup. For a lower-division club, this is the only ladder up to the continental stage.
It's the closest US soccer gets to promotion's magic: a tiny club can knock out a giant and reach the continent.