Burlington, Vt., March 22, 2024 – Today, the United States Soccer Federation announced the draw for the Second Round of the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Vermont Green FC will host Carolina Core FC of MLS Next Pro on Wednesday, April 3 at 7:00pm at Virtue Field in Burlington. Vermont Green are one of only eight amateur teams to progress to the Second Round of the historic tournament.
“Playing in the First Round was an unforgettable experience for our community. The heroics on display on the field and in the stands placed Vermont firmly on the map of the national soccer consciousness, and we’re so grateful to everyone who contributed to that occasion. Thousands watched on as our state fell madly in love with the Cup. We are so thrilled to have the opportunity to host this historic tournament again.” said Patrick Infurna, Vermont Green FC co-founder.
Vermont Green FC hosted the tournament’s First Round on March 19 at Virtue Field, where more than 2,500 fans witnessed a riveting 4-3 Vermont victory over visiting professional club Lexington SC.
Virtue Field will now play host to yet another professional team when Carolina Core FC of MLS Next Pro, a Division III affiliate of Major League Soccer, visits the Green Mountain State. Carolina Core FC is based in High Point, North Carolina, and just began their inaugural season. The Core won their First Round U.S. Open Cup match 3-2 over USL League Two side Northern Virginia FC.
This is the 109th edition of the historic U.S. Open Cup. Beginning in 1913, it is the oldest soccer competition in the United States. The tournament is a single elimination contest, and includes clubs from every level of the American soccer pyramid—from Major League Soccer (MLS) all the way down to amateur and semi-professional teams. 96 clubs are competing in 2024.
“Things continue to go the way we dreamed them up. Having the opportunity to host another professional club on Vermont soil is special. Our players and staff felt the love and support of our community on Tuesday, and we hope we can replicate that feeling on April 3!” said Head Coach and Sporting Director Adam Pfeifer. “Carolina Core poses a massive challenge for our club, and we will have to respect their quality, but we know our players will come into this prepared for the occasion.”
Vermont Green FC will confirm the U.S. Open Cup Second Round roster next week.
Tickets to the match are included in the 2024 Season Ticket. Single Match Tickets are available now at tickets.vermontgreenfc.com.