Tuesday, July 08, 2008

U.S. Open Cup--DC United v. Chicago Fire

I will be at this evening's U.S. Open Cup game between DC and Chicago at the Maryland Soccerplex. Kick-off at 7:30pm, can't wait to see who is playing for both clubs.

Chicago has Four U.S. Open Cup trophies in five final appearances, with their most recent victory coming in 2006. DC United have 1 U.S. Open Cup (1996) and two finals appearances. The two teams last met in the U.S. Open Cup play in 2006, when Chicago spanked DC 3-0 in their run to Chicago's last Cup victory.

In MLS play, the two teams have met twice this season, splitting the home and away series a game a piece. Chicago went 0-for June, while DC United has been hot lately with six wins in their last seven games in all competitions, including scoring and impressive 20 goals in those seven games and conceding 8 goals.

In the past DC United has played a fair number of reserve players in Open Cup matches, while Chicago has taken Cup play far more seriously, often playing more of their senior team. Tommy Soehn's club have not had a match since last week's Open Cup match against the Rochester Rhinos and will play Chivas Guadalajara on Sunday to Open the Superliga. Soehn could play a number of first team players along side top subs.

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