The 2024 US Open Cup is set to make a significant shift in its broadcasting strategy. The quarterfinals, semifinals, and final of the tournament will be available for free on MLS Season Pass from Apple. This move marks an important milestone in the relationship between Major League Soccer (MLS) and United Soccer League (USL), as it brings USL teams to the MLS broadcast partner for the first time.
With only seven games remaining in this year's competition, this announcement comes at a crucial time. Previously, platforms such as YouTube, MLSsoccer.com, USsoccer.com, and USLsoccer.com provided coverage of select games throughout the initial rounds of the tournament. However, with this new arrangement with Apple's MLS Season Pass service, fans can now enjoy all quarterfinal matches without any subscription fees.
Thrilling quarterfinal matchups await fans
The 2024 schedule includes three games involving an MLS team facing a USL Championship opponent while one game features two competing MLS teams:
- Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship) vs Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)
- Atlanta United (MLS) vs Indy Eleven (USL Championship)
- Sporting Kansas City (MLS) vs FC Dallas (MLS)
- Los Angeles Football Club (MLS) vs New Mexico United (USL Championship)
These matchups promise intriguing contests that are sure to keep fans on their toes.
The winner between Sacramento Republic and Seattle Sounders will host either LAFC or New Mexico United in the US Open Cup semifinals. Similarly, either Sporting KC or FC Dallas will welcome whichever team emerges victorious from Atlanta United and Indy Eleven match-up.
The relationship between MLS And USL
This new broadcasting deal brokered by U.S Soccer with Apple signifies a potential step towards bringing USL and MLS closer together. Historically, there has been a significant divide between the two leagues, with MLS clubs opting not to send their teams to the oldest soccer competition in the United States. In contrast, USL remained committed to participating.
As we approach the final stages of this year's tournament, teams will undoubtedly sense an opportunity for silverware. This makes the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final all that much more interesting for fans and players alike.
This new broadcasting arrangement is a game-changer for sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike. It not only provides free access to some of the most exciting games of the season but also signifies a potential shift in U.S soccer dynamics as it brings two major leagues closer together.
