What A U.S. Open Cup Victory Would REALLY Mean For the Union

This Tuesday, the Union take on D.C. United in the fifth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, an annual bracket-style knockout tournament that features teams from MLS, NASL (North American Soccer League), and USL (United Soccer League). Last season, the Union made it to the Final for the first time in their brief history, but ended up losing to the Seattle Sounders 3-1 at PPL Park. Now they’re back and looking to hopefully claim the trophy that just slipped out of their grasp a year ago. But you should care about this… why? I’ll explain.

Although the U.S. Open Cup isn’t anywhere near what winning the MLS Cup would mean for the Union, it still has some pretty good perks. For one thing, the winning team wins $250,000, which I know doesn’t seem like much for a multi-million dollar sports franchise, but at least it’s something. And of course, the Union are still looking for that first piece of silverware for the trophy case. That is, unless you’re counting the IMG Suncoast Pro Classic Trophy which the Union hoisted back in February, but I’m sure not.

Another, and probably the best perk of winning the Open Cup, is exposure. The winner gets an automatic entrance into the CONCACAF Champions League, which is great exposure not only for the players themselves but a great way to get the Union’s name out there. The CCL comprises 24 teams from all over North and Central America, with 4 of them coming out of the MLS. (MLS Cup Champion, Supporters’ Shield Winner, and next-best record in MLS earn the other three bids). This would be a great opportunity for the Union to play with great times, fans to cheer on the Union internationally, and the club to get greater exposure than just in the MLS.

Last but not least, it’s for the fans. Seeing the Union be able to win a U.S. Open Cup after a season (and a first six for that matter) where things didn’t go as planned would be great for any Union fan. The fans love and support this team through all the ups and numerous downs, and a U.S. Open Cup win could be a great way for the Union organization to say “Thank you.”

So is a U.S. Open Cup victory the pinnacle of any MLS team? Of course not. I’d trade 10 USOC wins for one MLS Cup title. But it’s a fun way to see the Union play against other teams not necessarily in the MLS, earn some money, get exposed to bigger and  better opportunities, and maybe win that elusive first piece of silverware.