As the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup progresses into its third round, highlighted underdogs continue to capture attention. A focal point is El Farolito, which has established itself as the leading amateur team, achieving this milestone for the second year in a row.

Teams from the USL Championship are now entering the fray, which may mean an end to some of the feel-good narratives from earlier rounds. MLS Next Pro squads like Tacoma Defiance and Columbus Crew II bring excitement and seem poised to challenge established teams. Columbus Crew II’s standout striker, Chase Adams, is making waves not only locally but also on the national stage, having impressed during U.S. U-17 competitions.

Portland Hearts of Pine, a debutant in the USL League One, adds more flavor to the tournament by competing against a formidable rival, Rhode Island FC, while a moose mascot named Moxie captures public affection.

In the upcoming matches, El Farolito is set to clash with Sacramento Republic, a match that promises thrilling action, juxtaposing their amateur status against a well-established side with a rich history in the Cup. Additionally, FC Naples aims to demonstrate their prowess against the experienced Tampa Bay Rowdies team, albeit while dealing with turmoil after a managerial change.

This year’s tournament is not just another competition but holds potential for historic moments, as lower-division clubs aim to surprise and perhaps make a deep run.

Match Schedule

Tuesday, April 15

• Columbus Crew II vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds, 6 p.m.
• Louisville City FC vs. Loudoun United, 7 p.m. (CBS Sports Network)
• Charlotte Independence vs. North Carolina FC, 7 p.m.
• Portland Hearts of Pine vs. Rhode Island FC, 7 p.m. (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
• Charleston Battery vs. Tormenta FC, 7:30 p.m.
• Union Omaha vs. San Antonio FC, 8 p.m.
• AV Alta FC vs. Orange County SC, 10 p.m. (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
• Tacoma Defiance vs. Oakland Roots, 10:30 p.m.

Wednesday, April 16

• FC Naples vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies, 7 p.m. (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
• Detroit City FC vs. Westchester SC, 7 p.m.
• Indy Eleven vs. Miami FC, 7:30 p.m.
• FC Tulsa vs. Phoenix Rising, 8 p.m.
• Colorado Springs FC vs. One Knoxville SC, 9 p.m.
• New Mexico United vs. El Paso Locomotive, 9:30 p.m. (CBS Sports Golazo Network)
• Sacramento Republic vs. El Farolito FC, 10 p.m. (CBS Sports Network)
• Las Vegas Lights vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves, 10:30 p.m.