The longest running national soccer competition in the United States makes its way to AutoZone Park as Memphis 901 FC hosts the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, April 17.
The Beale Street Boys welcome in Miami United F.C., the first team from the United States Specialty Soccer Association to reach the third round of the Open Cup. The amateur club has become darlings of the U.S. Open Cup so far with victories over Chattanooga and Club de Lyon in the first two rounds of the competition.
“It’s totally different because you have to prepare for the unknown,” 901 FC Head Coach Stephen Glass said. “We’ve seen their game against Club de Lyon in the last round but we don’t get much information other than that. We know they are a dangerous team that’s capable of winning. I think as long as we look after our bits of the game, that’s the most important thing.”
Wednesday’s match marks the first time 901 FC will host an Open Cup match at AutoZone Park since it’s inaugural season in 2019.
901 FC hosted three Open Cup matches in the Bluff City in 2019, the first a second round 3-1 victory over New York Red Bulls U23 at AutoZone Park, then a 4-0 win over Hartford Athletic at Mike Rose Soccer Complex before falling in the Fourth Round.
“It brings a bit of excitement,” Glass said. “We wanted to play at home last year and it never fell right. We made the request to do it this year and obviously there’s an investment to do it as well. We’re looking forward to it and the players are looking forward to it.”
The Beale Street Boys will look to advance past last year’s Round of 32 exit. Memphis put away One Knoxville SC before taking down Atlanta United in the first victory over an MLS club in franchise history.
With a win, 901 FC will advance to the fourth round to be played on May 7-8.
Kickoff for the match is set for 6:30 p.m. CT. and all tickets are just $9.01. Tickets are available now at the club’s official website.