When it comes to the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, the Fire has always been hot. The seventh-year Major League Soccer franchise continues the hunt for its fourth cup in a semifinal match against Charleston at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at North Central College.
With two more victories, the Fire would become the first repeat champions of the U.S. Open Cup since the New York Pancyprian Freedoms accomplished the feat in 1982-83.
Dating back to 1914, the U.S. Open Cup is the oldest cup competition in United States soccer. The annual single-elimination tournament is open to all affiliated amateur and professional teams in the United States.
“We’re getting close to the finals and we know how important it is to jell in big games,’` said three-time cup winner and Fire original C.J. Brown. “This is another way to put another trophy in your case.’`
Wednesday’s winner will face the Kansas City Wizards in the Cup final on Sept. 22. Kansas City beat the San Jose Earthquakes 1-0 Tuesday.