#127 - Michael Battista discusses the U.S. Open Cup

The U.S. Open Cup has been a key topic of discussion in American soccer circles over the past couple of weeks, and on Episode 127, we welcome Michael Battista of Hudson River Blue and TheCup.us to discuss everything that’s happening. Battista reported earlier this week that chronicled the potential for the 2024 U.S. Open Cup to be canceled due to U.S. Soccer failing to agree on a format that MLS would accept for its first teams to participate. The league has been public in their desire to field their reserve teams for the tournament, which has been meant with condemnation from fans across the country. Michael speaks on how the discussions have been going thus far and breaks down some of the many reasons why the tournament is in this precarious position. We also consider U.S. Soccer’s side and discuss how the negotiations have arrived at this point where we are still wondering as fans whether MLS will be involved. Over the past few weeks, we have grown our affiliate partnership list substantially with the goal to bring you closer to the players and leagues that you love. Whether it’s watching some of them play for their clubs on TV, buying the latest gear, or even traveling to watch our national teams play, the hope is that our affiliate links will help save you some money and break down the barriers that exist to watch the game we all love and enjoy. Head to our Linktree, which will give you access to all our affiliate links! Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and YouTube! Rates, reviews, and subscriptions really help our reach wherever you get your podcasts as well as on YouTube. And finally, tag us on Twitter or email USA Soccercast at Gmail dot com with any topic suggestions or questions for the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices