Major League Soccer has announced that all 27 of its U.S.-based clubs will compete in the 2027 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup (Canadian clubs aren't eligible).
As outlined recently, the amateur qualifiers will begin with 155 clubs and end with 32 clubs (16 from the qualifiers and 16 who qualified automatically) in the first round. MLS clubs are slated to host in the Round of 64. The exact nature of entry for the non-MLS professional sides remains unclear, with 32 slots available from USL leagues and possibly independent MLS NEXT Pro. By next year, the USL Premier, Championship and League One combined are expected to have 30 clubs.
MLS clubs will enter the tournament at the beginning of their 2027-28 regular season as the league completes its transition to a new competition calendar.
The U.S. Open Cup adheres to "one club, one entry," which means affiliated MLS NEXT Pro clubs will not compete, and does not place a numerical limit on the eligible players for the competition roster. That means 20 players, and MLS clubs may select from any contracted first-team, MLS NEXT Pro, and academy players. "The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup connects all leagues, clubs and fans in a unique way," said Nelson Rodriguez, MLS Executive Vice President of Sporting and Matchday. "For MLS clubs, it's a chance to write a special
chapter in the tournament's history and earn qualification to the Concacaf
Champions Cup."
What that means for the Northland
As outlined in our amateur qualifier preview, there is only one club from the Northland in that first section, Bavarian United. If they are successful, they will be joined in the First Round Proper by Minneapolis City SC. The second round will likely feature Forward Madison and Union Omaha. Finally, the third round would then feature the entry of Minnesota United.
The Round of 16 dates are to be confirmed, followed by the Quarterfinals on November 23-24, Semifinals on December 1, and the Final on December 15. These dates are subject to change.
