Cleveland SC Earns First-Round Bye in 2026 U.S. Open Cup Qualifying Rounds

Club advances directly to Round Two as it begins its first Qualifying Round campaign, following Open Cup Proper runs in 2022 and 2023.

Cleveland SC has received a first-round bye in the Open Division Qualifying Rounds of the 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious soccer tournament. The club will advance directly to the second round, scheduled for October 11–12, with its opponent to be determined following the First Qualifying Round.

This will be Cleveland SC’s first time entering through the Qualifying Rounds, but not its first experience in the Cup. The club previously reached the U.S. Open Cup Proper in 2022 and 2023, earning first-round victories both years before bowing out in the second round to USL League One opponents. Those appearances gave Cleveland a taste of the national spotlight and proved the club could compete with established opponents.

Relive one of those moments as Cleveland SC, after enduring a nearly four-hour weather delay, battled back to pull within a goal of the Richmond Kickers ➡️ Watch the highlights.

Now, with the qualifying system expanded for 2026, Cleveland SC will have to fight its way back into the main tournament. The path may be tougher, but the opportunity is even greater—one that could bring Cleveland soccer even more recognition on the national stage.

This historic competition offers lower-division clubs, such as Cleveland SC, an opportunity to test themselves against professional teams from the USL and even Major League Soccer, if they advance far enough. It’s the ultimate proving ground for clubs across the country.

The 2025 season gave Cleveland fans plenty to be proud of. Though the squad narrowly missed the playoffs, Cleveland finished with a strong 5-2-3 record, fueled by standout performances across the roster. Head Coach Joe Jovanovski, in his second year leading the club, continued to show his commitment to building a culture of resilience, belief, and growth in Cleveland. His steady leadership helped guide the squad through difficult stretches, highlighting the team’s long-term potential. That same leadership will be critical as Cleveland embarks on its Open Cup journey.

While several players emerged as breakout talents during the 2025 campaign, NCAA rules prevent active college players from competing in the qualifiers during their fall season. As a result, Cleveland’s roster will look different than the one fans saw throughout the summer. The full tournament squad will be announced at a later date, giving supporters another reason to stay tuned as the journey unfolds.

As exciting as the 2025 regular season was, the U.S. Open Cup represents a new challenge and a unique test. A total of 146 teams will compete in the Open Division Qualifying Rounds, with only the best advancing toward the tournament proper in spring 2026. Every step forward means a bigger spotlight and a bigger opportunity for Cleveland soccer.

The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is not just another tournament—it’s the heartbeat of American soccer tradition. Since 1914, clubs from every level of the game have dreamed of lifting the trophy. For Cleveland SC, this is more than just a chance to advance; it’s a chance to represent Cleveland on a national stage, showcase local talent, and keep building momentum for the 2026 season.

Now is the time to rally. Spread the word, bring your friends, and pack the stands. Cleveland soccer isn’t done yet in 2025—and the road to the 2026 U.S. Open Cup is about to begin!

The 2026 Qualifying Rounds will be played across the following four weekend windows from September through November:

• September 13–14, 2025

• October 11–12, 2025

• November 1–2, 2025

• November 22–23, 2025

  
  

Learn more about the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and the Qualifying Rounds [HERE], and see the full First Round schedule [HERE].

Cleveland SC’s U.S. Open Cup journey is also a chance to showcase the strength of our community. Local businesses and organizations interested in supporting the club during this historic run can explore sponsorship and partnership opportunities [HERE]. Together, we can put Cleveland soccer on the national stage.

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